Dye Sublimation Ink Printing for College or University Operations
Dye Sublimation Ink Printing for College or University Operations Sublimation ink consists of a solid, heat-sensitive dye, which provides the color, dissolved in liquid. Under heat and pressure, the solid dye particles change into a gas and bond with any polymers on the substrate and then change back into a solid. The high temperature used in sublimation opens the pores of the polymer and allows the gas to enter. When the substrate is removed from the heat source and immediately begins to cool, the pores close and the gas reverts to a solid and becomes a part of the polymer. Key to this process is the sublimation ink itself, and the right combination of heat press settings: 410° F, medium pressure (around 50 psi), and a dwell time of 40 to 50 seconds. What you get is a bright, colorfast image that resides in the product, not on the surface. It will not chip, peel or fade. We mentioned acchival inks above, but you will have to lear...