Heat Transfer Equipment

Heat transfer equipment is used for the application of screen printed and digital heat transfer sheets which can be applied to garments such as t-shirts, sweatshirts tote bags and more.

Heat Transfer Equipment – Model Types

  • Pneumatic Auto Close & Release
  • Automatic “Spring loaded” release
  • Manual Release
  • Clamshell Swing up platen
  • Swing a way platen

There are several models and features to consider before purchasing heat transfer equipment. Each model type can make a difference in your overall production workflow. The price of the machine should not always be your first consideration.

Heat Transfer Equipment – Model Type Examples and Definitions.

Pneumatic Auto Close & Release Machine

At the top of the list is the Pneumatic Auto Close & Release heat press. This type of press will require a separate air compressor which is attached to the back of the heat transfer equipment. The operator simply loads the platen with the garment of fabric and pushes (2) safety buttons. The machines platen automatically lowers for the preset duration and then automatically raises.

heat transfer equipment

 

 

 

 

 

Key Features

  • Automatically goes Up and Down
  • Less or No Operator Fatigue
  • Consistently even pressure distribution
  • Adapts to fabrics with buttons or zippers
  • Perfect for heavy fabrics such as canvas bags or fleece

The Automatic “Spring loaded” release uses a “Clamshell Swing up platen” This type of machine does not require any air compressor. The use of a locking spring mechanism which releases automatically when the preset timer is finished counting down. The operator must use physical pressure to push down on the upper platen to lock it in place. This machine does not automatically go down like the Pneumatic Auto Close & Release machine.

Key Features

  • Automatically releases the upper platen after timer finishes
  • No operator effort is required when raising the platen up
  • No need for additional air compressor
  • Clamshell can take up less space in smaller work areas

The manual release heat transfer equipment can come in a swing – a – way model. The operator must manually lock down the upper heat platen and then after the preset timer makes an audible sound, manually raise it. This all manual machine may require some physical strength to lower and raise the platen.

heat transfer equipment

 

 

 

 

Key Features

  • Swing – a – way platen allows operator to easily load and unload machine
  • Heat platen is moved away from the operator to reduce risk of burns
  • Good for small or short run orders
  • Some models offer interchangeable lower platens for shoes, duffle bags and other items

heat transfer equipment

 

How to apply transfers with Heat Transfer Equipment

To apply Plastisol Transfers you will need heat transfer equipment such as a18 commercial heat press which can provide at least 50 lbs of pressure and at least 375° F of heat. Many Cheap heat press machines will not work if they can not provide the minimum amount of pressure and heat. The application process with a heat press machine is slightly different depending on the Plastisol transfer formula you choose.

To apply Cotton soft custom heat transfers the application is

  • Temperature 375°F – 385°F
  • Dwell time – 7 to 10 seconds
  • Pressure – 45 to 50 PSI
  • Peel immediately after raising heat platen

To apply Polyester Athletic Formula plastisol transfers  the application is

  • Temperature 325°F (less for tote bags)
  • Dwell time – 7 to 10 seconds
  • Pressure – 45 to 50 PSI
  • Peel immediately after raising heat platen

To apply Aqua Color HD heat transfers the application for T-shirts is

  • Temperature 285°F to 295°F (less for black fabric)
  • Dwell time 12 seconds
  • Pressure 40 PSI to 45 PSI
  • Wait until completely cold before peeling away film.