How to Operate and Maintain a Heat Press

Heat Press machines offer a hassle-free way of printing artwork on t-shirts and many other substrates. A high-end heat press can cost between $2,000 and $4,000 to replace, which is quite costly. While routine maintenance won’t stop your heat press from eventually breaking down, it will extend its useful life. Use these tips to make the most of your heat press for your t-shirt printing business.

1. Start From the Center of the Platen

During application, be sure to start from the center of the platen. When the platens are pressed together, the heat press machine exerts force outwards. What this means is that the heat radiates from the center and outwards to the edges. Uneven pressure can keep some of your transfer sections from adhering correctly and compromise your t-shirt printing business.

2. Use Heat Press Sheets

Using heat press sheets will help your platens last longer. These sheets are available in different forms and can be used in various ways. They hug the lower platen like a mattress cover. Additionally, you can place them on top of your transfers to stop them from adhering to the upper platen.

3. Lubricate Properly

Use high-temperature lithium grease to lubricate all the pistons’ and rods’ wear points. Wipe off any extra grease if you unintentionally applied too much of it. If you don’t lubricate your machine frequently, the pivot joints in your machine will dry out and become vulnerable to friction and wear.

4. Dust Regularly

Remember to dust your heat press regularly. Avoid letting your machine collect largely visible amounts of dust. It could run hotter as a result of the accumulated dust. Keep your heat press’s interior and exterior parts dust-free.

5. Clean the Upper Platen

Wipe the top of your platen using a lint-free cloth and iron cleaner, mineral spirits, alcohol, or a green/water mix. Ensure your platen is cold before wiping it to reduce the risk of burning anything. You should clean your upper platen at least once every two weeks, but how often depends on what you use your press for and how often.

According to PR Newswire, it is predicted that the custom t-shirt printing industry will be worth $6.9 billion by 2027, and there’s no doubt that heat press machines will play a vital role in this growth. These machines are effective, but only when operated and maintained appropriately. Give us a call today for all your heat press needs.