Useful Hints:

1. Before applying PHOTO EMULSION to a new screen, make sure that it has been properly DEGREASED to remove all traces of oil, dust, fingerprints and chemicals. Rinse off DEGREASER and allow screen to dry in a dust free area.
   
   
2. Apply sensitized PHOTO EMULSION (follow instructions on the package) evenly to both sides of the degreased screen with a good applicator (coating trough). Concentrate on the print area as the outer area can be blocked at a later stage. Additional coats can be applied after the photo emulsion is dry to build up the stencil thickness.
   
   
3. Once the PHOTO EMULSION has dried in a dust free darkroom (a room with a yellow globe and blacked out windows will suffice) it is now ready for exposure under a suitable UV light source. The exposure time varies according to the wattage of the light source, the distance from the screen and the MESH count & colour. A Mercury Vapour lamp (750W or higher) or  Metal Halide (2000W or higher) makes an excellent light source for problem free exposures. Once the screen is exposed - rinse out the screen with water. Problems will occur if the screen is under-exposed or over- exposed, so do a time-test to ascertain the best exposure time for you light source and mesh. Tough up pinholes with suitable screen filler.
   
   
4. The screen is now ready for SCREEN PRINTING.
   
   
5. After you have completed the print run - remove excess ink and clean with a suitable screen wash.
   
   
6. To remove the PHOTO EMULSION after you have completed the print job, use a DECOAT POWDER solution (see packet for mixing instructions). The solution should be used on both sides of the screen and allow activity time for the chemical to react before blasting off with a HIGH PRESSURE WATER JET SPRAY GUN (100 bar pressure or more). Do not allow the chemical to dry on the screen.
   
   
7. Now apply CLEANER PASTE (a caustic based cleaner - use chemical resistant rubber gloves) to both sides of the screen with a soft cloth. Allow activity time before blasting off with a high pressure spray gun. Do not  allow the chemical to dry on the screen.
   
   
8. To remove the stain (or ghost image) from the screen, apply K4 Image Remover to both sides of the screen. Allow activity time before blasting off with a high pressure spray gun. Do not allow the chemical to dry on the screen.
   
   
9. Rinse off all traces of the chemicals and store for the next print job.
   
   
10. Before applying PHOTO EMULSION to a reclaimed screen, degrease the MESH and continue with steps 1-3.

Screen Cleaning Instuctions PDF