"James" wrote in message
...
On Feb 20, 4:37 pm, "Jimmy" wrote:
"Mike S." wrote in message

...





Or, more specifically - how to keep the ink from drying out?

I read a pen-related blog wherein the author suggested storing them in
zip-lock plastic bags from which air was removed with a straw prior to
sealing, in order to create a partial vacuum. No followup on whether
it
works.

Thinking it through, the object seems to be to prevent the slow
evaporation of solvent(s) from the ink. Sealing it in something
airtight
and low volume makes sense, but it would seem to me that the initial
use
of a vacuum would (at least temporarily) _increase_ evaporation of
solvent.

Any real-world experience here? Any better suggestions?

Mike,

I have always stored them point-down. The theory is, this keeps the ball
inked, and the column of ink stays unbroken. If you store them point-up,
it seems more likely that air bubbles will get into the ink, and the
ball may dry out, which will make the refill impossible to start.

As a real world example, I have a metal Parker "T Ball" refill from the
early 1970s that still writes. They can survive a long time.

You could store them in an airtight tin, with silica gel to absorb
moisture. I *think* the ink is oil-based, so it should not dry them out.

Brian's suggestion of coating the ends seems like a good idea. I have
noticed that some rollerballs have a little clump of sealant on the
point, which you have to peel off before you start using them.

--
Alan

Yes, pen refills from the 1970's made by Parker have a propensity to
last a long time, but not pen refills made in the 50's and 60's. One
trick I use to loosen ink in a refill is to hold it briefly over a
open stove flame a few seconds and then scrawl on a scratch pad
nearby. Sometimes it works, sometimes it does not and then I discard
the refill in trash. Every refill is different as you do not know how
long they will last.

James



Dad taught me that scribbling on newspaper was best because it got the ball
rolling more times than other paper. If that failed, a match was employed
just like your stove flame, then back to the newspaper. If that didn't work,
the refill went into the trash.

--
~~Bluesea~~
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