Tips On How To Solve Sublimation Issues
Sublimation
printing is a complex process; during the chemical process sublimation is the
transition of the solid dye to a gas but it does not change into a liquid
during the transition. The process is endothermic; the dye absorbs heat from
the heat transfer machine, emits gas, and then dyes the polyester.
Intriguingly enough the most common issues
seen with sublimation generally deal with color, printing, and computerization.
Start-up issues can happen when a new user doesn’t understand the difference
between factory print drive and the drivers for their specific ink system.
Configuring those two things can be a challenge and many times during the setup
a new user will power on the printer before reading the proper installation
instructions. You should never turn on or connect the printer to your computer
until prompted to do so because it can cause a communication failure between
the machines.
Poor or washed out color is another complaint
often heard about sublimation. Poor or washed out color can be caused by
printing on the wrong side of the paper. The side intended for printing is
bright white. The white material captures the sublimation ink to preserve the dot structure
while in turn keeping the ink on the top of the sublimation paper. The ink is then absorbs
the heat and outgasses which in turn dyes the substrate material. Once the
color has been applied then you can start to figure out your color problems.
Printing a primary color chart and checking the expiration date on your ink,
verifying that you are using the right time, temperature, and pressure, as well
as making sure you are printing with the right driver for the ink can help you
determine any issues you may be having.
Banding can be defined as consistent,
straight, horizontal, white lines that appear on print and run in the direction
of the print head. Banding is commonly found among inkjet printers. Banding can
be caused by clogged nozzles, therefore, you need to run a nozzle check which
you can do from your printer drive or power drive and you should make sure to
run the test on regular paper.
Another common issue is black turning out
brown after application. This problem is generally found when applying a transfer
to a ceramic but can still be found among apparel applications as well. Black
may appear brown when the transfer was applied too long or at too high of a
temperature. In order to fix this issue it is best to review application
instructions and check your temperature and dwell time.
Sublimation has become a common practice
among small and large decorators alike. There are large amounts of information
regarding sublimation and sublimation packages you can purchase to help get you
started. The main issue many decorators seem to have is the inability to follow
instructions and seek help. Don’t forget the many tips I have provided you with
as well as the fact that there are many facets of information pertaining to
sublimation out there.
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