best To Consider: Conveyor Dryers/Ovens
Whats best To Consider: Conveyor Dryers/Ovens
by Mike Jirasek
It's been roughly 55 years since screen printers first developed and cured their ink through a dryer (gas oven in this case). This event was a catalyst in the development of our industry. A most important decision to be sure, the type and size of the dryer(s) best for you depends on the answer to a few questions. But, first let's discuss the different types of these units, and their use.
Whether one calls it a dryer, because it dries the pigment into the fiber; or an oven, because it bonds/bakes the ink to the substrate - there are essentially two types of curing units, electric and gas.
Electric Units cure with radiant heat generated by infrared panels, ceramic elements or quartz tubes. Given their space requirements and relative expense, 24"-48" units with 3'-8' of heat are most popular with small to mid-size shops. As technology has progressed the addition of efficient air circulation units (convection) has improved curing rates as heat is now directed more effectively.
Sometimes a matter of debate is the use of electric dryers for curing water base/discharge inks. With the improved air circulation of many of today's units, this fact receives less attention. What generally is accepted is that a gas fired unit is the best way to dry and cure these inks and that the output/through-put is significantly increased by gas-fired units, since they accelerate the drying process.
Gas Units are generally able to be outfitted to consume either natural or propane gas; these units are heated by a burner united measures in BTU's. Since they are convective by nature and coupled with advancements in heat profiling, split air delivery and air knife technology they offer the most productive, energy efficient and versatile method of curing textile inks. These units are also suitable (at times recommended) for DTG printing. They are large and usually available in 36"-72" widths and 8'-16' of heat. Gas units are favored by many mid-size to large shops and are more expensive. Some units have split belts to accommodate two different types of textiles at the same time.
Hybrids are combination units that employ both electrical and gas elements. A usually expensive unit designed for the fastest cure rates to maximize production. Often considered to be ideal for curing water based and discharged inks; hybrids usually come in large widths and lengths.
It's been roughly 55 years since screen printers first developed and cured their ink through a dryer (gas oven in this case). This event was a catalyst in the development of our industry. A most important decision to be sure, the type and size of the dryer(s) best for you depends on the answer to a few questions. But, first let's discuss the different types of these units, and their use.
What to Consider
Many of us have cured screen printed shirts through other means, especially in an emergency. As a regular method, and given the many variables, a flash or regular oven are not designed for curing screen printed shirts. Even a heat press has limitations. When it comes to DTG a number of manufacturer's use a singe or 2 step procedure with the heat press (to allow moisture to escape). Most of these recommend a heavy duty 16"X20" model.
Prior to your decision - the fullest evaluation of all your needs should be conducted. This list is not all inclusive, nor prioritized.
Should I buy electric or gas?
In addition to the information already included - check your utility bills. There is often a significant difference. Assess your available electric (volts, phase and amps), if insufficient, identify costs to add power - you may have to amend your decision. If you do not have gas in your shop - check availability and associated expense. All of these may have significant cost.
What output/through put do I require from my dryer?
Usually calculated on pieces cured per hour (plastisol ink), you will want to be sure that you can cure at least as much as your press(es) print. It makes little sense to produce 360 pieces an hour and only be able to cure 240. If you anticipate growth and/or an additional press purchase make sure you factor this in. It's less expensive to purchase a little more dryer now, than later.
How much space do you have/need?
In your shop --- do a full layout before you make your decision - ensure your press will fit in comfortably with the work flow.
On your belt --- if you do a number of oversize prints or garments, take this into consideration. There are layouts available from manufacturers that will assist you in this calculation.
How else equipped?
Does it have --- setting and read out for temperature and belt speed - double wall insulation - front and rear adjustable heat panels - adjustable heat height on electric - sufficient in-feed and out-feed. Use your local dealer or check with the manufacturer as most will have hands-on experience and an abundance of information. Once you get a new dryer it will be wise to include a temperature monitoring device (if you do not already have a heat gun or donut device). Lastly, always check the ink manufacturer's recommended cure temperature and the dwell time under heat. This will help ensure that your garments are fully cured. Remember to test and record the appropriate setting: temperature and belt speed for the various types of ink and apparel. Lots of variables, including the temperature and humidity of your shop will affect drying. Periodic testing thereafter will help ensure cured garments and happy customers.
Mike Jirasek
#TeamANATOL
by Mike Jirasek
It's been roughly 55 years since screen printers first developed and cured their ink through a dryer (gas oven in this case). This event was a catalyst in the development of our industry. A most important decision to be sure, the type and size of the dryer(s) best for you depends on the answer to a few questions. But, first let's discuss the different types of these units, and their use.
Types of Conveyor Dryers/Ovens
Whether one calls it a dryer, because it dries the pigment into the fiber; or an oven, because it bonds/bakes the ink to the substrate - there are essentially two types of curing units, electric and gas.
Electric Units cure with radiant heat generated by infrared panels, ceramic elements or quartz tubes. Given their space requirements and relative expense, 24"-48" units with 3'-8' of heat are most popular with small to mid-size shops. As technology has progressed the addition of efficient air circulation units (convection) has improved curing rates as heat is now directed more effectively.
Sometimes a matter of debate is the use of electric dryers for curing water base/discharge inks. With the improved air circulation of many of today's units, this fact receives less attention. What generally is accepted is that a gas fired unit is the best way to dry and cure these inks and that the output/through-put is significantly increased by gas-fired units, since they accelerate the drying process.
Gas Units are generally able to be outfitted to consume either natural or propane gas; these units are heated by a burner united measures in BTU's. Since they are convective by nature and coupled with advancements in heat profiling, split air delivery and air knife technology they offer the most productive, energy efficient and versatile method of curing textile inks. These units are also suitable (at times recommended) for DTG printing. They are large and usually available in 36"-72" widths and 8'-16' of heat. Gas units are favored by many mid-size to large shops and are more expensive. Some units have split belts to accommodate two different types of textiles at the same time.
Hybrids are combination units that employ both electrical and gas elements. A usually expensive unit designed for the fastest cure rates to maximize production. Often considered to be ideal for curing water based and discharged inks; hybrids usually come in large widths and lengths.
It's been roughly 55 years since screen printers first developed and cured their ink through a dryer (gas oven in this case). This event was a catalyst in the development of our industry. A most important decision to be sure, the type and size of the dryer(s) best for you depends on the answer to a few questions. But, first let's discuss the different types of these units, and their use.
Types of Conveyor Dryers/Ovens
What to Consider
Many of us have cured screen printed shirts through other means, especially in an emergency. As a regular method, and given the many variables, a flash or regular oven are not designed for curing screen printed shirts. Even a heat press has limitations. When it comes to DTG a number of manufacturer's use a singe or 2 step procedure with the heat press (to allow moisture to escape). Most of these recommend a heavy duty 16"X20" model.
Prior to your decision - the fullest evaluation of all your needs should be conducted. This list is not all inclusive, nor prioritized.
Should I buy electric or gas?
In addition to the information already included - check your utility bills. There is often a significant difference. Assess your available electric (volts, phase and amps), if insufficient, identify costs to add power - you may have to amend your decision. If you do not have gas in your shop - check availability and associated expense. All of these may have significant cost.
What output/through put do I require from my dryer?
Usually calculated on pieces cured per hour (plastisol ink), you will want to be sure that you can cure at least as much as your press(es) print. It makes little sense to produce 360 pieces an hour and only be able to cure 240. If you anticipate growth and/or an additional press purchase make sure you factor this in. It's less expensive to purchase a little more dryer now, than later.
How much space do you have/need?
In your shop --- do a full layout before you make your decision - ensure your press will fit in comfortably with the work flow.
On your belt --- if you do a number of oversize prints or garments, take this into consideration. There are layouts available from manufacturers that will assist you in this calculation.
How else equipped?
Does it have --- setting and read out for temperature and belt speed - double wall insulation - front and rear adjustable heat panels - adjustable heat height on electric - sufficient in-feed and out-feed. Use your local dealer or check with the manufacturer as most will have hands-on experience and an abundance of information. Once you get a new dryer it will be wise to include a temperature monitoring device (if you do not already have a heat gun or donut device). Lastly, always check the ink manufacturer's recommended cure temperature and the dwell time under heat. This will help ensure that your garments are fully cured. Remember to test and record the appropriate setting: temperature and belt speed for the various types of ink and apparel. Lots of variables, including the temperature and humidity of your shop will affect drying. Periodic testing thereafter will help ensure cured garments and happy customers.
Mike Jirasek
#TeamANATOL
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