From Pad Print Machinery of Vermont

Probably the most difficult question to answer about the pad printing process is, "How do I determine what pad to use?" One answer won't apply for every shop or application. Rather than lay down inflexible rules, this article will provide a methodology for determining the optimum pad characteristics and a framework you can work within to get the best performance from your pads time after time.

As prior articles in "Screen Printing" magazine ("Pad Printing: Controlling Ambient Conditions for Better Quality," July '94, page 94 and "Cliché Selection in Pad Printing" Nov. '94, page 122) have stressed the key to good pad printing is to reduce and control the variables. Though the function of the pad seems simple - to just transfer the image from the printing plate onto the substrate - it is subject to the same types of print-quality fluctuations if you don't choose the correct pad type and use it properly.

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Products & Services
Label Printers
Label printers are used to print a variety of labels or adhesive stamps. Most label printers are capable of printing bar codes.
Pad Eyes
Pad eyes are eyelets, rings, or loops that attach to machinery or equipment. They can be used for tie-down, lashing or securing applications, but are not usually rated for overhead lifting.
Vacuum Cups and Vacuum Pads
Vacuum cups and vacuum pads engage an object and attach to it with an applied, sealed vacuum. The pads then lift, move, or position the work piece in assembly or inspection applications.
Ink Jet Printers
Ink jet printers project electrically charged droplets of ink onto a page. Types of ink jet printers include thermal and piezo.

Product Announcements
Arlon LLC - UltraPad™ Product Selector
Arlon UltraPad™ Press Pads can be utilized in most press lamination applications to facilitate laminate substrate processing in a number of lamination market segments... (read more)
 

Topics of Interest

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