In this article, we are going to describe about flat bed printing process and the machine. Let's start with the introduction.
{getToc} $title={Table of Contents}
Introduction
There are many printing methods used in the textile sector. In flat-screen printing and technology, the screen is flat, and it moves up and down during printing. Flat screen printing is a specific type of screen printing which is widely used in the textile industry to apply designs onto flat surfaces, such as fabric panels. This method is particularly suitable for printing large patterns, graphics, or designs on textiles.
Apparatus
- Gum device
- Washing device
- Brush
- Guide roller
- Conveyor belt
- Feed fabric
- For different screens, different print pastes, etc.
Chemicals
- Thickener
- Carrier
- Wetting agent
- Print paste
Machine Description
 |
| Flat Bed Screen Printing |
Here,
S1= S2= S3=Screens
t=Printing table
W=Washing device for blanket
I=Device for bringing gum to the printing table.
This machine consists of a printing table, an endless conveyor belt to bring the screens periodically, some screens, a special mechanism for lowering the screens to the required parts, and an arrangement for gumming and brushing the fabric. A feed roller and a delivery roller are also present in the arrangement.
Key Aspects of Screen Printing
- Screen setup
- Printing table
- Printing technique
- Drying or curing
- Different screens for different colors
Working Procedure
- Printing paste prepared in the tank is brought and poured on the screens as required.
- The feed fabric is brought to the printing table through rollers and gummed to the conveyor belt on the table.
- The conveyor belt brings the fabric periodically under the screens and stops while the screens are lowered on the required printing, of the fabric by a special mechanism. One or more strokes ensure simultaneous printing of patterns as required.
- After printing, the fabric is delivered and dried through a hot air chamber.
- The conveyor belt returns to its original position where it is washed and dried, and the new fabric is gummed on it.
However, it's worth noting that flat-screen printing has some limitations, especially when it comes to intricate designs or designs requiring a high level of detail. In such cases, other printing methods, such as rotary screen printing or digital printing, may be more suitable.