PRODUCT

Q&A

1. What is Sublimation Transfer Printing?

Sublimation transfer printing involves printing images, landscapes, text, and other graphics onto sublimation transfer paper using an inkjet printer with sublimation ink, in a mirror image. The printed paper is then heated to around 200°C by a sublimation transfer machine. The sublimation ink on the paper vaporizes and penetrates the substrate, transferring the vivid colors and images to fabrics, ceramic mugs, plates, tiles, metal, and other materials. This is a new printing technology.

2. Printers Compatible with Our Products

– Standard Inkjet Printers: Epson C65, 830U, R210, R310, R800, 1520K, EX3, 1290, 2100; Lenovo: CJ100, etc.
– Wide-Format Inkjet Printers: Epson 3000, 4000, 4000HS, 7600, 9600, 10600; ROLAND, MUTOH, ENCAD, MIMAKI, etc.

3. Use Sublimation Transfer Inks

It is necessary to use sublimation transfer inks, which are made from disperse dyes. Under transfer conditions, the inks sublimate and dye the substrate. High-quality sublimation inks do not clog the print heads and offer vivid, stable colors.

4. Adjust the Appropriate Color Density

Adjust the color density in the computer to prevent excessive ink that may not dry easily. After adjustment, check the transfer results.

5. Set the Appropriate Temperature and Time

The recommended temperature range for sublimation transfer is between 180-230°C, and the time is around 10-30 seconds. It is advisable to conduct a small test before full-scale production to determine the best parameters.

6. Ensure Close Contact During Heat Press

During sublimation transfer, the heat press, transfer paper, and the surface of the substrate must be tightly pressed together without any gaps; otherwise, the transferred image may appear blurry.

7. Advantages of Sublimation Transfer Printing

Sublimation transfer printing produces vibrant and rich colors that can rival traditional printing. The process involves heating the sublimation inks to penetrate the substrate, creating bright and vivid images upon condensation. Sublimated products are durable and resistant to fading, cracking, or peeling.

Common Issues in Sublimation Transfer Printing and Solutions:

1. Moisture in the Cushioning Materials
Materials such as cotton, sponge, or cardboard under the flatbed heat press may absorb moisture during the transfer process, leading to excess steam and causing light or blurry spots on the printed fabric. To resolve this, apply moderate heat and pressure to evaporate the moisture from the cushioning material or replace it with a dry one.

2. Preventing Moisture in Printed Designs and Fabrics
Printed designs and the fabrics to be transferred should remain dry. Moisture can cause discoloration and streaks during the transfer, reducing the transfer rate and vibrancy. For optimal results, keep the materials in a room with a humidity level below 60%.

3. Avoiding Ghosting During Sublimation Transfer
Ghosting may occur when the transfer paper shifts after heat pressing. This happens when the paper and fabric are lifted together with the heat platen due to static electricity. Solutions include reducing the speed at which the heat platen rises, using the four-corner water method, using a cover method, or using tacky transfer paper to keep the materials together and prevent shifting.

Methods to Prevent:

1. Reduce Rising Speed:
Adjust the speed control valve of the pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder on the flatbed heat press to slow down the rate at which the heat platen rises, preventing the transfer paper and fabric from being lifted together.

2. Four-Corner Water Method:
If the transfer paper is smaller than the fabric, apply a small amount of water to the four corners of the transfer paper (less than 0.5 cm²). This helps adhere the paper to the fabric during transfer and prevents it from shifting and causing ghosting.

3. Cover Method:
If the transfer paper is larger than the fabric, cover the fabric with the transfer paper. This prevents the paper and fabric from being lifted together by the static electricity generated during transfer.

4. Use Tacky Transfer Paper:
To prevent ghosting, use tacky transfer paper, which adheres to the fabric during transfer, reducing the risk of shifting and double printing, and increasing production efficiency and quality.