In the use of single-station heat press, novice often due to the characteristics of the equipment, material differences and operating procedures to understand the lack of pits, this article will analyze the four core misunderstandings, to provide targeted pits to avoid the guide, to help you quickly master the correct operation method, to achieve stable and high-quality printing results.
Misunderstanding performance: novices tend to directly use the default parameters, ignoring the specific needs of different materials on the temperature and time.
Reason analysis: HTV (thermal transfer film), DTF (direct transfer film) and sublimation transfer of the optimal temperature range and time requirements are different, which are prone to peeling, blurring or fabric burning if not adjusted according to the material manual.
Check material descriptions: HTV recommends 150-165°C, 8-12 seconds; DTF recommends 150-165°C, 10-12 seconds; sublimation transfer recommends 190-200°C Sublimation transfer is recommended 190-200°C, 20-25 seconds.
Do small sample test: Before formal production, test on the same type of waste material and record the best parameters to ensure the consistency and pass rate of batch work.
Misunderstanding performance: too much pressure in the transfer after leaving indentation, too little pressure leads to transfer is not firm.
Reason analysis: the pressure of single-station heat press is adjusted by the knob, do not grasp the correct strength, the novice is prone to operating errors, or ignore the differences in the sensitivity of different processes on the pressure.
Refer to manufacturer's recommended pressure: Use “medium” or “medium-high” pressure according to the transfer material manual, and avoid “spinning all the way down” type of heavy pressure operation.
Test with test paper: Place a piece of ordinary printing paper between the heating plate and the material and do a heat press to check whether it can slide smoothly to determine whether the pressure is uniform and appropriate.
Misunderstanding Performance: Start heat pressing directly without preheating the fabric or heating plate.
Reason analysis: preheating can remove moisture and oil on the surface of the fabric and the board, if there is a lack of preheating, the transfer will be due to moisture or residual stains affecting the adhesion of the transfer mottled or blistering phenomenon.
Pit Avoidance Suggestion:
Machine Preheating: Wait for the heating plate to reach the set temperature and stabilize for a few minutes after turning on the machine before starting the heat pressing operation.
Fabric Preheating: For fabrics with high moisture content or easily wrinkled, preheat by pressing lightly for 3-5 seconds to remove moisture and smooth out wrinkles.
Misunderstanding performance: use the same set of parameters and processes for all fabrics and processes, resulting in individual fabric damage or poor pattern results.
Reason analysis: cotton, polyester, nylon and other fabrics have great differences in thermal stability, heat press conditions can not be generalized; and different transfer process (such as soft film, hard film, silicone printing) on the performance of the heat press also has different needs.
Pit avoidance suggestions:
Classification management of process parameters: for the main types of fabrics, establish a parameter file table, and program storage in the hot press for easy switching and calling.
Regularly organize training: let operators have in-depth knowledge of different fabrics and process characteristics, and conduct regular training and testing to improve the overall operating level.
Q1：Why are the edges easy to warp after heat pressing?
A1：Mostly due to insufficient preheating or pressure, it is recommended to extend the preheating time and appropriate pressure test.
Q2：How to avoid repeated failure of heat pressing?
A2: Be sure to adjust the temperature and time according to the material instructions, and make sure the preheating and pressure are even.
Q3：How to deal with serious fabric wrinkles?
A3：Pre-heat the fabric and press it lightly for 3-5 seconds before pressing, or use a special heat press pad to re-press it to eliminate wrinkles.
Clean the heating plate: After the heating plate cools down, use a soft cloth and special cleaner to wipe it regularly to prevent the accumulation of adhesive film and oil from affecting the heat conduction.
Tighten the adjustment knob: Check the pressure knob and hinge screws to ensure that there is no loosening and add the right amount of lubricant regularly.
Calibrate the temperature control system: use thermometer or thermal imager to calibrate the accuracy of temperature display and fine-tune the controller every quarter.
Organize process files: according to the production feedback, timely update the fabric and process parameters file, keep the data real-time effective.
Mastering the four major misconceptions and avoiding pitfalls of single-station heat presses, combining the four elements of temperature, time, pressure and fabrics organically, and with preheating and sorting management can significantly improve the success rate of heat pressing and the texture of the products. After mastering the above core points, novices will be able to quickly enter the ranks of professional operators and realize efficient and stable printing production.
