Sublimating onto metal involves transferring a special ink design from paper to a coated metal surface using heat and pressure. The core of this process is the heat pressing step, which is crucial for a successful transfer.
Here are the key steps involved in the heat pressing phase when sublimating onto metal, based on the provided reference:
The Heat Pressing Process for Metal Sublimation
Properly applying heat and pressure is essential for bonding the sublimation ink into the metal's coating. Follow these steps carefully:
Preparing the Setup
Begin with your design printed in sublimation ink on sublimation paper. Ensure the metal blank you are using is specifically treated with a sublimation coating, typically identified by a bright white, smooth surface. Place your printed image on the heat press pad.
The Pressing Steps
Execute the transfer using your heat press by following these actions:
- Place the white side of the metal face-down on top of your printed image. This ensures the coated surface of the metal makes direct contact with the printed ink on the paper when the press is closed.
- Once the press has pre-heated, turn your project over (paper-side-up). Position the metal and paper layered together inside the press, ensuring the paper is on top and the heat platen will press directly onto the back of the paper.
- After it has pressed for 80 seconds, using fire-safe gloves, open the clamp and pull your project out to cool. The specified dwell time of 80 seconds allows the sublimation ink to convert to gas and penetrate the metal's coating, creating a durable, full-color image. Always use fire-safe gloves when handling the hot metal and surrounding materials to prevent burns.
Below is a summary of the pressing duration mentioned in the reference:
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Heat Pressing | 80 seconds |
Please note: While the pressing time is specified, the reference does not provide details on the required temperature or pressure settings, which are also vital for optimal sublimation results on metal.
Post-Pressing
After removing the project from the heat press, place it on a heat-resistant surface and allow it to cool completely before handling. This prevents ghosting or smudging of the transferred image.
For further information on these steps, refer to the source at Ignite at Hamilton East Public Library.
These steps provide a clear guide to the heat transfer portion of sublimating a design onto a metal surface, ensuring the proper placement and timing for the process.
