Screen printing typically comes in two forms: hand printing and machine printing.
Manual printing involves the entire process from feeding the paper to collecting it, with the movement of the plate up and down, as well as the scraping of the impression, all being done manually.
Mechanical printing refers to the printing process being completed through mechanical movements. It is further categorized into semi-automatic and fully automatic printing. Semi-automatic involves manual insertion and removal of the substrate, while the printing is done mechanically; fully automatic printing means the entire process is completed by machines. There is also a quick and simple curved screen printing method called "movable screen printing," where the screen is removed and directly attached to the substrate surface for printing. Using the movable screen printing method allows for the production of a large variety of printed products, such as latex plastic drums, pure water drums, basins, thermos flasks, cups, bowls, plates, and more. Additionally, this method can be used to print signage on vehicles and on irregular flat surfaces.
The Process of Making a Flexible Screen: First, dry and repair the photosensitive text and graphic version, then remove it and cut it to size. Use wood or aluminum sheets as a frame at both ends of the screen, securing them tightly with adhesive tape. Alternatively, you can directly secure them with adhesive to create the required flexible screen. Operation Method of the Flexible Screen: Select different inks for mixing based on the printing material: First, use flat plates and dishes to mix the ink. Then, one person holds the flexible screen with both hands, pressing the printed area firmly against the surface of the printing material. Another person uses a squeegee to evenly apply ink from the ink tray onto the squeegee, then evenly scrape the ink onto the screen.
If the printed graphic area is too large, you can pour ink onto the plate as needed, but ensure it doesn't overflow onto the substrate. Note that the ink should not be too thin or too thick; a moderate consistency is ideal. For small areas such as printing text or illustrations, one person can handle the task. The method is to use packaging tape to secure one end of the flat plate at the required position on the substrate. Then, pull the plate tightly against the substrate with the other hand to begin printing. When removing the plate, always lift it gently in the direction of the tape-stuck end. If two people are involved in removing the plate, follow the same method. This printing method is convenient to operate, flexible in substrate requirements, suitable for both large and small quantities, and boasts low costs and energy-saving advantages.