What to do when the DTF powder cannot be shaken clean?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing technology has gained widespread popularity due to its simple operation, suitability for various materials and colors of fabrics, and the ability to mass-produce diverse designs. Hot melt powder is an essential consumable in DTF printing processes. During the powder shaking process using a powder shaker, DTF hot melt adhesive powder is evenly applied onto the patterns of DTF transfer films. These films are then heat-pressed onto garment fabrics, bonding the garments and printed patterns together. However, some users may encounter issues with unclean powder shaking during operations. This article analyzes possible reasons and proposes solutions to optimize the printing process.

Analysis of Causes and Solutions:

1. Ink Issues

Problem: If the white ink used is too thin or has high water content, it can cause ink bleeding (flowing ink), resulting in excessive oil and water seepage at the edges of patterns. This, in turn, leads to excessive attachment of hot melt powder during powder shaking.

Solution: Check for water stains around the printed patterns. If present, consider replacing the ink or pre-drying the patterns before powder shaking to improve ink viscosity and drying speed, preventing excessive ink flow.

2. DTF Film Quality Issues

Problem: Using inferior quality DTF films or those incompatible with the ink can cause powder sticking issues.

Solution: Choose higher quality DTF films that are more compatible with the ink to ensure even distribution of hot melt powder during the printing process.

3. Hot Melt Powder Issues

Problem: Moisture affecting hot melt powder can cause clumping and visible adhesive edges at pattern edges.

Solution: Ensure that hot melt powder remains dry. This can be achieved by proper moisture-proof handling or slight pre-drying and sieving before use to ensure uniformity and flow of the powder.

4. Humidity Issues

Problem: High humidity slows down the drying speed of white ink, leading to excessive attachment of hot melt powder at pattern edges.

Solution: Opt for DTF printers and powder shakers equipped with pre-drying systems to manage ink humidity before powder shaking operations. Additionally, when humidity exceeds 65%, consider implementing air dehumidification to protect equipment and optimize printing results.

5. Static Electricity Issues

Problem: Inadequate grounding of machines or dry weather conditions can lead to static electricity buildup on DTF films, causing powder sticking problems.

Solution: Ensure good grounding of powder shakers and printers to reduce static electricity buildup. Be particularly mindful of this issue in dry weather conditions to maintain electrical balance in the equipment and environment.

6. Quality Issues with DTF Powder Shakers

Problem: If unclean hot melt powder persists on DTF films despite addressing the above factors, it may indicate quality issues with the powder shaker.

Solution: Consider upgrading to a higher quality powder shaker to ensure uniform and efficient powder shaking operations, thereby fundamentally resolving powder sticking issues.

Through the analysis and implementation of these solutions, it is hoped that users of DTF printing technology can effectively address issues with unclean powder shaking, thereby enhancing printing quality and production efficiency. Selecting appropriate consumables, optimizing operational processes, and maintaining equipment are crucial steps towards achieving consistent high-quality printing results.