Discuss the different types of equipment needed for screen printing. Topics include manual screen printing presses, automatic presses, dryers, folding machines, starter kits and high end machines.
The time has come that my business needs a conveyor dryer to facilitate all we are doing and as this will be our biggest single investment to date I want to make sure we do it right. First of all I'd appreciate any basic advice from experienced printers...what should I be looking for in a conveyor dryer? What features should I be sure to get? Where should I look for a good deal, both in the form of a good price and a good quality machine? I searched through a few sites the other day and found a few options. First the "Black Body Little Buddy Conveyor Dryer". I found it on silkscreeningsupplies.com.Black Body Little Buddy Conveyor Dryer, 240V, 2992W, 12.5 amps It looks to be a good machine, but then again I don't quite know what a "good machine" is yet. I am located in Anchorage, AK and to get it here would be about $2,500. The next one I found that I thought might be good is a "5 Ft. Conveyor Belt Dryer" from logossp.com. http://www.logossp.com/screen-printing-equipment/conveyor-dryers/5-ft-conveyor-http://www.t-shirtforums.com/newthread.php?do=newthread&f=70&fcon=1belt-dryer.html. This machine is a little less powered (only 2000W compared to 2995W with the Little Buddy) but its a better price... including shipping I can get it up here for under $1,900. Money is a little tight right now but I don't want to buy something I'm going to end up needing to upgrade or replace. I'd appreciate advice on what to do! Thanks.
The time has come that my business needs a conveyor dryer to facilitate all we are doing and as this will be our biggest single investment to date I want to make sure we do it right. First of all I'd appreciate any basic advice from experienced printers...what should I be looking for in a conveyor dryer? What features should I be sure to get? Where should I look for a good deal, both in the form of a good price and a good quality machine? I searched through a few sites the other day and found a few options. First the "Black Body Little Buddy Conveyor Dryer". I found it on silkscreeningsupplies.com.Black Body Little Buddy Conveyor Dryer, 240V, 2992W, 12.5 amps It looks to be a good machine, but then again I don't quite know what a "good machine" is yet. I am located in Anchorage, AK and to get it here would be about $2,500. The next one I found that I thought might be good is a "5 Ft. Conveyor Belt Dryer" from logossp.com. http://www.logossp.com/screen-printing-equipment/conveyor-dryers/5-ft-conveyor-http://www.t-shirtforums.com/newthread.php?do=newthread&f=70&fcon=1belt-dryer.html. This machine is a little less powered (only 2000W compared to 2995W with the Little Buddy) but its a better price... including shipping I can get it up here for under $1,900. Money is a little tight right now but I don't want to buy something I'm going to end up needing to upgrade or replace. I'd appreciate advice on what to do! Thanks.
Both are crap. But it also depends on what type of volume you plan to do or are doing right now.
I suggest looking around locally for a used conveyor dryer, at least 6-8 ft in length, maybe 3 panels of heating, temp control, belt control.
I have the Logos SP 6' dryer and it is not "crap". I have used it for two years and have not had one problem and it has perfectly cured everything that I have put in it. I am looking to upgrade to a vastex dryer (upgrading is always an option).
I would suggest searching for used ones (digitsmith.com) and if you could find a good deal on 30" belt that would make things a little easier.
I did a lot of research when I was buying a dryer. At first I got an old one off craigslist. After a few months I was able to invest in a new one. It may be a little out of your price range but the Atlas sure cure 824d is a great mid range unit. A lot of bang for your buck. Has all the bells and whistles. Get what you can afford. You can always re-invest and there is always someone looking to buy your used dryer. What will work for some may not work for others. My advice, buy used until you know what a good machine is for you. In my opinion, A good machine has digital temp control, adjustable forced air/ exhaust, adjustable belt speed. Adjustable heat panels. Easily replaceable parts, and good technical support. All these features allow you to take on many different print jobs with ease. hooded fleece, water based, polyester garments etc.
__________________ "well, you're damned if you do, and you're damned if you don't."Bart Simpson www.wabangwear.wordpress.com
Lots of good advice I would say the best came from Prints Charming on the Atlas-and from thutch on the vastex. I rep both as well as Workhorse and BBC some things that were mentioned need to keep in mind
Volume: try to look as far ahead, the worst thing is to get a dryer and outgrow it in a year or two.
Power Supply make sure you have a dedicated 220v line - stay away from 120 if you can
Adj height heat bank and forced air gives you more versatilty on types of garments you can cure and not burn
Hope that helps, youre welcome to call 800-621-4173 or email chris@atlasscreensupply.com
Need advice on a conveyor dryer 
