Help metal panel print issue. Please see attached photo

[Orangeoctopus]

Hi, I'm having issues with 0.5mm gloss white single sided sublimatiron prints.

I've attached a photo.


First attempt was the green background print, 190 for 65 seconds medium pressure, but as you can see it has light zebra like lines running vertical mainly through the central area.


Second attempt gold background print, 180 for 45 seconds light pressure same issue but much worst this time.


Non printable metal surface is face up with print placed underneath.


If you can suggest any fixes it would be very much appreciated.


Kind regards
Paul

[webtrekker]

Press with white face up and print placed on top.

Try adding a couple of sheets of copy paper or kitchen towel below and above to absorb any moisture content.

Use light pressure and make sure your prints stand for a while before pressing so that they have thoroughly dried out.

[ICF]

That's a moisture issue. Make sure the print has fully dried and the metal is at room temperature before pressing. As stated above, place a sheet of paper or polyester on top of the sub-paper when pressing to absorb any remaining moisture.

[Orangeoctopus]

Thanks for the replies much appreciated

[Andrew]

Not wanting to disagree with some of the above but...... firm pressure all the way. The lighter the pressure the worse it will be. Light pressure doesn't ensure 100% contact between print and metal which is where the gas creates paths to escape. This type of metal we buy and print a lot of (comes on a pallet) and have done for years. Around 190c for 50s and very firm pressure. Usually print is on the rubber mat but would work either way.

[JMugs]

When I printed metal sheets I always pre-pressed them with chip shop paper on top. It was amazing how much moisture came out of the panels. I tried all forms of pressure and all worked after pre-pressing. The panels were hot so I would pre-press then leave until hot but could be handled with bare hands. If doing loads, then I just prepared the whole batch, letting them go cool before pressing appeared fine.
I also found making sure the base of the press was thoroughly warmed through helped.
Janners