Maximising Emulsion life

[jord]

Hi All, new to silk screen and exposing screens etc. I have a litre of emulsion but i am aware that once its mixed with the activator it has a shelf life which can be lengthened if you put it in the fridge. I am on a very tight budget which is why i brought the litre tub as it saved money but i doubt i will use it all before it goes off which will waste money.
Can I split the emulsion and the activator into smaller amounts. Once the water is in the small activator bottle does it have to be used ? I'm just thinking i can weigh and work out smaller amounts easily so i don't use it all at once.

Thanks

Jord

[Justin]

You can buy another sensitizer for some emulsions, I moved over to pre mixed that last 12 months after I had a lot of issues with the 2 part going out of date very quickly.

[jord]

I'm just tight, and need to save as much as possible till i get better and get a few orders in.

[Justin]

You might want to look at buying pre-emulsioned screens or maybe even pre exposed screens. If you're charging the right amount for your setup this would be covered.

[daveave]

What make was the pre mixed

[jord]

You might want to look at buying pre-emulsioned screens or maybe even pre exposed screens. If you're charging the right amount for your setup this would be covered.

Yes it could be an option IF or when i do get an order that warrants it and also it depends on how much a pre-emulsioned/exposed screen costs. I am thinking about having a setup cost if possible but i don't want to scare any potential customers away, trouble is everything costs in this day and age. As i've not emulsioned any screens and burned them yet i will see how i get on with the procedure, how long it takes me etc. At the moment i cant calculate time into any jobs as im such a noob. but you have given me something to think about.

Jord

[jord]

Does anyone have any names or brands for the pre mixed emulsion? Also how long will it last ?
I believe that the diazo stuff i have will last a few months in the fridge (i will have to go check what brand/make it is as it still in the cardboard box everything was delivered in) Its the "hybrid" 2 part Diazo emulsion from art2silkscreen so I have no clue how good it is, I just didn't buy the cheapest.
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