Screen Printing - April/May 2016 - (Page 22)

STenCilMAking in The Age Of CTS Computer-to-screen imaging systems have helped screen printing to remain relevant as inkjet technology has progressed, but they require a different mindset in stencilmaking for best results. Dave Dennings, Kiwo D igital technology, specifically inkjet printing, was forecast by many to be the death knell of screen printing when the first systems were first showcased at the SGIA Expo in the early 1990s. While inkjet has taken much of the large-format graphics market and DTG printers are extending their reach into textiles, inkjet has not forced screen printing into obsolescence. In fact, the two disciplines seem to complement each other, giving screen printers more choices and variety of services to sell. The screen-printing industry also embraced digital prepress technology many years ago with the introduction of computer-to-screen (CTS) imaging - systems that image screens directly from a digital file - as a way to advance the process. CTS systems save time and money by eliminating the need to output, cut, tag, transport, repair, and store film positives, not to mention the cost of the film itself. They also eliminate the need for a vacuum frame and glass, saving not just time but also largely overcoming imaging problems such as light scatter and pinholing. Moreover, precision image placement through a CTS system significantly reduces registration time on the press. Two types of CTS technologies are currently used: inkjet masking and digital direct (or maskless) exposure. Combined with the recent surge in LED exposure systems, CTS technology has given screen printers many exciting new options for imaging and exposing their screens. Looking at the benefits and limitations of these technologies will help clarify which may be the best choice for your business. Understanding and Assessing Options Masked CTS systems use inkjet technology to apply an opaque ink or wax onto a coated screen, forming the UV DAve DenningS is technical/product manager for screenmaking products for Kiwo and a 2006 inductee into the Academy of Screen and Digital printing technologies. this article has been excerpted from his white paper, "Stencil Making in the Age of Digital & LED: Market trends & SWOt Analysis." to download the complete white paper, go to screenweb.com/CtS. 22 screenprinting mask traditionally created by a film positive. The screens are then exposed conventionally. Maskless systems instead image and expose in a single step utilizing a digital light processor (DLP) that scans the surface of the coated screen, exposing the negative non-image areas while Wax Based 600 x 600 dpi, 65 lpi allowing the positive image to wash out during development. Masked systems have a lower initial cost, but add an ongoing consumables expense in the ink or wax. They may also not provide as high a resolution as maskfigURe 1 less systems, but they iMAging DiFFErEnCES are compatible with in MASKED CtS SYStEMS a larger range of emulsions, especially when used in conjunction with static (or stationary) exposure systems. Generally, T-shirt and graphics printers working in smaller formats have been the primary base for masked systems, while maskless models have been aimed mainly at large-format graphics printers. Water Based 600 x 1200 dpi, 55 lpi Masked CTS Systems The printheads in masked CTS units are designed for either water-based or wax-based inks. Typically, the heads in waterbased systems are less expensive, but the inks may not be compatible with all types of emulsions. It depends on the hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and surface tension properties of the emulsion - physical properties that alter how the inks http://www.screenweb.com/CtS

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Screen Printing - April/May 2016

Screen Printing - April/May 2016
Contents
Editorial Insights
Pressing Issues
New Products
A 5-Minute Sales and Marketing Plan
The Top 5 Art Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Stencilmaking in the Age of CTS
After the Print: Breaking the Logjam in Finishing
Distributor/Dealer Directory
Classifieds
Ad Index
It Looks Good on Paper

Screen Printing - April/May 2016