How to Use Your Flash Unit Properly

By: Taylor Landesman Published: Dec 13, 2019 (Updated: Apr 06, 2026)

Using a flash unit correctly is the difference between a high-quality, durable screen print and a design that washes away after one cycle in the laundry. Whether you are using it for a print-flash-print technique or for a final cure, mastering the setup is essential for any professional shop.

Based on the guide by Lawson Workhorse Group, here are the core principles for using your flash unit effectively:

1. Positioning and Alignment

  • Distance: Keep the heating element 2–3 inches away from the platen.
  • Leveling: Ensure the unit is perfectly parallel to the platen. If it’s tilted, you’ll end up with "hot spots" where some areas of the ink are scorched while others remain under-cured.
  • Centering: Always center the unit over the pallet to achieve an even heat distribution across the entire design.

2. Temperature Requirements

Curing is not just about time; it’s about reaching a specific temperature. Depending on your screen printing ink, your target temperatures will vary:

  • Dynamic Ink Series: Must reach 270°F.
  • MC/MCO Series: Must reach 320°F.

3. Power and Control

  • Dedicated Circuit: Flash units are power-hungry. Always use a dedicated outlet to prevent tripped breakers or inconsistent heat.
  • Adjustability: Using a unit with built-in temperature control, such as the Super Flash, allows you to fine-tune the heat output on the fly, which is crucial when switching between different garment types or ink colors.

Pro Tip: If you are unsure which unit fits your production volume, it's worth choosing the right spot or flash dryer based on your specific shop space and power availability.

Description

A flash cure unit, or spot cure unit, can be used in print-flash-print technique, or to fully cure screen printing ink. As a side note, know that if you use a flash unit to cure your plastisol ink, the ink needs to reach a the necessary temperature to cure. That means for the Dynamic Ink series, the ink needs to reach 270 degrees Fahrenheit, and the MC/MCO series must be 320 degrees Fahrenheit.

To start off, make sure your spot cure unit is 2-3 inches from the platen and have it parallel to the platen. To obtain an even cure, make sure the unit is centered over the screen printing pallet.

Since flash units can take up a lot of power, be sure to have a dedicated outlet for it.

If you have a flash unit with a temperature control, such as a Super Flash, you have the ability to adjust the temperature while the flash unit is in use.

For assistance on finding which type of flash unit is best for your shop, read our blog Choosing the Right Spot or Flash Dryer for your Screen Printing Shop. For other inquiries please contact us.