I originally posted this a week ago, but it got caught up waiting for a moderator to approve. Anyone able to help me out with this info?
Diazo Emulsion Questions
Brand new to screen printing and have emulsion questions... I'll be creating some screen printed wooden signs. I'll eventually do some shirts and other things, but for now it's just signage using water-based inks. Okay, these are really dumb, basic question...here it goes...
1. After I add the sensitizer, is diazo emulsion light sensitive while drying, or only once it's dried? Do I need to apply the emulsion to the screen in the dark?
2. I'll need to transfer my screens once exposed in order to wash them out since I don't have a water source near my exposure unit. I've read I should wet the front and back then transfer in a black plastic bag. If I'm washing out the screens outside with a pressure washer, do I need to wait until dark to do it? Will I be okay if I remove from the bag and begin washing it immediately? Suggestions?
3. When 'reclaiming' the screens after I'm done printing, do I have to use emulsion remover, or is there another option? I've heard I can use bleach, but some say that will destroy the screen.
4. I understand that diazo emulsion will last longer if I store in the refrigerator. True? Also, when I prepare to use it, will I need to let it warm to room temperature? Will using it cold change the exposure times or cause it to not work at all?
5. How important is it that I use a scoop coater when applying it to a screen? Could I just pour some on the screen and use something flat to spread it out evenly?
Thanks in advance for your advice and suggestions!
Jeff
1. After I add the sensitizer, is diazo emulsion light sensitive while drying, or only once it's dried? Do I need to apply the emulsion to the screen in the dark?
2. I'll need to transfer my screens once exposed in order to wash them out since I don't have a water source near my exposure unit. I've read I should wet the front and back then transfer in a black plastic bag. If I'm washing out the screens outside with a pressure washer, do I need to wait until dark to do it? Will I be okay if I remove from the bag and begin washing it immediately? Suggestions?
3. When 'reclaiming' the screens after I'm done printing, do I have to use emulsion remover, or is there another option? I've heard I can use bleach, but some say that will destroy the screen.
4. I understand that diazo emulsion will last longer if I store in the refrigerator. True? Also, when I prepare to use it, will I need to let it warm to room temperature? Will using it cold change the exposure times or cause it to not work at all?
5. How important is it that I use a scoop coater when applying it to a screen? Could I just pour some on the screen and use something flat to spread it out evenly?
Thanks in advance for your advice and suggestions!
Jeff
1 - 3 of 3 Posts
some more experienced printers will chime in once they see thisBrand new to screen printing and have emulsion questions... I'll be creating some screen printed wooden signs. I'll eventually do some shirts and other things, but for now it's just signage using water-based inks. Okay, these are really dumb, basic question...here it goes...
1. After I add the sensitizer, is diazo emulsion light sensitive while drying, or only once it's dried? Do I need to apply the emulsion to the screen in the dark?
you can apply it in a low light enviroment, doesnt need to be dark.
2. I'll need to transfer my screens once exposed in order to wash them out since I don't have a water source near my exposure unit. I've read I should wet the front and back then transfer in a black plastic bag. If I'm washing out the screens outside with a pressure washer, do I need to wait until dark to do it? Will I be okay if I remove from the bag and begin washing it immediately? Suggestions?
save the pressure washer for reclaiming, normal pressure thru a sprayer attachment is fine.
I've never rinsed outside so can't comment on that
3. When 'reclaiming' the screens after I'm done printing, do I have to use emulsion remover, or is there another option? I've heard I can use bleach, but some say that will destroy the screen.
use the proper chemicals to prevent headache and ruined screens.
4. I understand that diazo emulsion will last longer if I store in the refrigerator. True? Also, when I prepare to use it, will I need to let it warm to room temperature? Will using it cold change the exposure times or cause it to not work at all?
True, it will last 30-60 days if refrigerated, no need to let it warm up either unless you want it to be easier to apply a thin coat, I prefer it cold myself.
5. How important is it that I use a scoop coater when applying it to a screen? Could I just pour some on the screen and use something flat to spread it out evenly?
This is very important, you cant get consistent thickness without one and will have exposure problems.
Thanks in advance for your advice and suggestions!
Jeff
1 - 3 of 3 Posts
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