I upgraded to a better used press and dryer. I had only been using a cheap Ebay press and Speedball gear till now.
The seller threw in a bunch of aluminum screens. 50% reclaimed with no problem, so I am already winning. BUT sure would like to reclaim the others.
I have never had a screen lock with what I had been using.
I read that one issue could be as a result of under exposure. I have been searching to get some clarity. I'd like to avoid it on my new screen that I just bought and the ones I just got.
By under exposure, does that mean the initial drying of the emulsion after being applied to screen? If not allowed to fully dry before exposing the film, the uncured emulsion may lock during washout and printing? Even if post exposed?
I always thought under exposing referred to exposing the film (developing the screen). I read that under exposing allows the area that doesn't wash out (completely) to become water logged and ink may cause that area to lock. Even if the screen was completely dry prior to exposing the film.
Is that true? Is this just two ways of having the same issue regardless of where you are in the process (initial coating or developing image)?
I think that was 4.
Thanks for reading.
Locked in emulsion is most likely be as a result allowing the stencil remover to dry onto the screen during reclaiming. The remover acts as a catalyst and will lock the emulsion into the frame forever.
When reclaiming, spray the screen on each side with remover & leave for a couple of minutes to soften the emulsion. Agitate with a soft brush to loosen the emulsion ( you can add some more remover at this stage if the image is still visible) and rinse with a pressure washer. Never let the stencil remover dry out on the screen.
Partially dry emulsion can be hard to remove, but usually comes out with enough water.
Under exposed images can be harder to wash out, but I have never had any problem with them truly locking in.
