Possible causes for loss of tension
The following points should be investigated if loss of tension is problematic:
weak frame sections
mesh incorrectly inserted in the stretching clamps
stretching clamps pull unevenly: one side of the frame is laying too high
large temperature changes
insufficient waiting time befor gluing
insufficient contact between frame and screen before gluing
Extreme climatic or mechanical influences can also affect the mesh tension.
To keep the tension loss at a minimum level, it is highly recommended to use a pneumatic stretching system in order to pretension the frame.
Because the mesh must have a certain degree of elasticity during the printing process, undue demands should not be made on the tension. Differences of 1–2 N/cm are permissible.
SEFAR PET 1500
Multi-color graphics printing experience has shown that good register is achieved at mesh tensions above 12 N/cm. It is important that all the meshes used are tensioned similarly
(+/- 1 – 2 N/cm).
Improve your skills
Would you like to improve your screen printing skills? Sefar has the know-how and the infrastructure to increase your job fitness.
Register for a training course at the Sefar Screen Printing Competence & Training Center:
Gaby Franco
Training Coordinator
Sefar AG
CH-9425 Thal (SG)
Tel. +41 (0)71 898 57 00