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In the glass processing industry, screen printing machines play an indispensable role. Nearly all types of glass processing require the use of a screen printer. Depending on specific application needs, glass screen printing machines can be categorized into six main types:
While these machines are integral to production, various quality issues can arise during the printing process. Common problems include patterns or lines appearing blurred, distorted, dotted, jagged at the edges, chipped, or raised. To address these challenges, it’s essential to examine the following potential causes:
1. Stability of the Screen Frame
If the screen frame is not securely fixed, it may cause misalignment during printing, leading to distorted patterns or unclear lines. Ensuring the frame is firmly installed is crucial for maintaining print accuracy.
2. Distance Between Screen and Substrate
The gap between the screen and the substrate must be precisely adjusted. A gap that is too large can result in blurred prints, while a gap that is too small can prevent ink from spreading evenly. Proper spacing ensures optimal printing results.
3. Flatness of the Substrate Surface
The substrate’s surface quality directly impacts the print outcome. Uneven surfaces can cause air bubbles, uneven patterns, or distorted prints. Always ensure the substrate is flat before starting the printing process.
4. Angle Between Squeegee and Substrate
The angle of the squeegee affects the pressure applied during printing. Incorrect angles may lead to distortions, especially in fine details. Adjusting to the correct angle ensures smooth and even ink application.
5. Uniform Printing Pressure
Consistent pressure during printing is essential. Uneven pressure or excessive force can lead to insufficient ink transfer or irregular patterns. Additionally, controlling the squeegee’s movement speed and avoiding pauses or reprints within the same area is critical for maintaining consistency.
6. Proper Ink Consistency
The viscosity of the ink plays a key role in printing quality. Overly thin ink can result in unclear prints, while overly thick ink may not pass through the screen mesh effectively, causing blurry or broken patterns. Ensure the ink is mixed to the proper consistency.
7. Compatibility Between Ink and Screen Mesh
Ink particle size must match the screen mesh count. If the particles are too large for a high-mesh screen, the ink will struggle to pass through, resulting in subpar prints. Choosing the right ink for your screen is essential.
8. Drying Speed and Environmental Conditions
Excessively fast ink drying speeds, especially in windy environments, can cause premature clogging of the screen, leading to incomplete prints. Maintaining a controlled work environment and ensuring timely ink drying can prevent such issues.
9. Drying of Cleaning Agents
After washing the screen or reworking a substrate, any residual cleaning agents or solvents that haven’t dried completely can compromise the print quality. Proper drying is a vital step in the preparation process.
Diagnosing and Resolving Problems
When faced with quality issues in screen printing, refer to the above points to identify the root cause. Analyze each factor systematically and apply the appropriate corrective measures. Beyond the operational steps outlined, several external factors—such as screen tension, optimal screen-substrate distance, screen preparation, substrate surface treatment, and ink formulation—can also significantly impact the quality of screen printing.
By adopting standardized practices, meticulous management, and precise technical adjustments, you can significantly enhance screen printing quality and ensure a flawless final product. This not only improves production efficiency but also boosts customer satisfaction, establishing your brand as a leader in the glass processing industry. If you still have any questions, please feel free to contact the professional team at JUIST for assistance: sales@juistmac.com