[spx]

We are experiencing some problems that may related to washing out a screen after exposure. This has led me to wonder if we are doing this "simple" step wrong.

We have a washout system made from a laundry tub that has a separate 3/4" water line attached to an standard hose nozzle (outdoor style). We have pretty decent water pressure it appears as well... although never measured.

When we put the exposed screen in the washout, I "was" using a direct spray (hardest setting) from the nozzle
holding it approx 8-12" away. We go over the entire screen.

The image slowly appears sort of hazy. I tried letting it sit for 20-30 seconds then sprayed it again, the same way. More cleans out of the image.

Again, I wait, and hit it again and it opens up pretty decently.

Although, at this point, some edges start pealing and small lines are lost.

Should I be using a wider non-direct spray or holding it back farther? Running it constantly, longer?

Any suggestions?

Thanks
Pete

P.S. The emulsion is Ulano QX-1 and is brand new.

 

[mhuk]

Is it the emulsion slightly underexposed or the screen is not prepared enough to allow the emulsion to adhere to it?

 

[spx]

I assume these are correct. See my original posting here:

http://www.t-shirtforums.com/screen-printing/t64058.html

This is what brought on the question about the proper way to washout.

Thanks

Pete

 

[studog79]

You are probably under exposing. 95% of all screen priters do this according tho the emulsion manufacturers. Also us a 1500psi powerwasher. We were real hesitant to do this at first but it makes a better inage on the edges and works great.

 

[SoloStampede]

like it was said in the previous reply, use a pressure washer. I started out without one, and it took forever to blowout. When you sit there and let water hit your design for too long, details in your image will begin to washout . Definitely get a pressure washer, you'll blowout the screen in under a minute.

 

[spx]

So it sounds like your are stating that "harder" spray for a shorter period of time is better than lighter spray over a period of time. On your pressure washer, what type of nozzle degrees? I know that makes a big difference with just general pressure washing. A narrow spray directs that 1500 psi and can gouge wood whereas a wider 15-20-30 degree nozzle won't.

Thanks

Pete

 

[SoloStampede]

I don't use a narrow stream of water. I use a wide spray and set it to "max". The trick is to not concentrate your spray in one area. Instead, go from left to right and spray up and down from a good 2-3 feet away.