Thermo-Tel Heat-Sensitive Tapes
Thermo-Tel Heat-Sensitive Tapes
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Heat Temperature Strips for Measuring Conveyor Tunnel Dryer Temperature
Thermo-Tel heat-sensitive tapes are ideal for estimating dryer temperatures, with ranges from 100°F to 500°F available in eight different temperature ranges. Each set includes five pressure-sensitive strips. They are easy to use and cost-effective.
400-100-1-PK #1 (100°F–130°F)*
400-100-2-PK #2 (140°F–180°F)
400-100-3-PK #3 (190°F–230°F)
400-100-4-PK #4 (240°F–280°F)
400-100-5-PK #5 (290°F–330°F) Most Popular
400-100-6-PK #6 (340°F–380°F)
400-100-7-PK #7 (390°F–435°F)
400-100-8-PK #8 (450°F–500°F)
Instructions for Use:
- Step 1: Peel a strip off the protective backing.
- Step 2: Press firmly to remove any air bubbles from the tape.
- Step 3: Send the strip through your Lawson dryer.
- Step 4: Inspect the strip after it has passed through the dryer for results.
How to Use Thermo-Tel Tapes
Each package contains eight strips with five different temperature indicators (e.g., #5 = 290°F, 300°F, 310°F, 320°F, and 330°F). When exposed to heat, the strip darkens as it reaches each temperature, allowing you to determine the achieved temperature.
Each dryer, job, garment, and shop is unique, so you will need to adjust your dryer accordingly. Belt speed, heater element height, and jet-air flow significantly affect temperature. Always test in conditions that simulate real production. For example, apply the Thermo-Tel strip to the exact garment type you will be printing on (not a rag, belt, or different color) and run the same number of garments or pieces through the heat chamber as you will in production.
To Use: Peel a strip off the protective backing and press firmly and evenly onto the garment or item being exposed to heat. Different substrates and materials react differently to heat. Factors such as ink deposit amount, ink brand, and garment moisture content may alter the required dwell time inside the heat chamber.
*During the summer months, Thermo-Tel #1 may require special shipping because of the heat sensitivity. These shipping charges are additional.
Technical FAQ: Choosing the Right Screen Printing Mesh Count
What mesh count is best for printing glitter and shimmer inks?
Use a low mesh count between 24 and 86 for glitter and shimmer inks. Larger glitter flakes require very open meshes such as 24/25, 38/40, or 60/61 to allow particles to pass through without clogging. For finer shimmer inks or foil adhesives, an 85/86 mesh provides better control while still allowing adequate ink flow.
Why is 110 mesh commonly used in garment screen printing?
A 110 mesh count is widely used because it delivers a heavy ink deposit, making it ideal for bold graphics, block text, and high-viscosity plastisol inks. It is especially effective for white underbases, allowing printers to achieve strong opacity in a single pass and improve production efficiency.
What mesh count should I use for thick white plastisol ink?
A 125 mesh count is a strong choice for thick white plastisol inks. It balances ink flow and detail, offering slightly finer resolution than 110 mesh while still maintaining enough openness to prevent clogging or poor ink release.
What is the best all-purpose mesh count for t-shirt printing?
A 156/160 mesh count is considered the best general-purpose option for screen printing on garments. It works well with both plastisol and water-based inks, providing good detail retention while maintaining consistent ink coverage across most designs.
How can I achieve a soft-hand feel when printing with plastisol ink?
To create a softer print with plastisol ink, use a higher mesh count such as 196/200. This reduces the amount of ink deposited on the garment, resulting in a lighter, smoother feel. Keep in mind that higher mesh counts may reduce opacity, making this approach best for lighter fabrics or fashion prints.
What mesh count is ideal for halftones and fine detail printing?
A 230 mesh count is ideal for halftones, fine lines, and detailed artwork. It allows for precise stencil definition and clean ink transfer. For very fine detail or thinner inks, a 280 mesh count can further improve sharpness and control.
When should I use a 305 mesh screen for screen printing?
A 305 mesh count is best for ultra-fine detail, including small halftone dots, CMYK process printing, and simulated process designs. The higher thread count ensures accurate dot reproduction and prevents distortion, resulting in sharper, more professional prints.