Problem Printing on Acrylic Block

[mike.hudson]

Hi,

I'm having a problem with a speckled appearance when printing on acrylic blocks and wondered if anyone has seen this before.

The blocks are from BMS using Tru-Pix Paper and pressing for 7 minutes at 190c although I have tried longer at 200c with the same effect.
Printer is Ricoh GXe3300n using the Power Driver set on ceramic (because I can't find acrylic!)

Any advice would be welcome.

Mike

[WorthDoingRight]

Hi Mike,

Just wondered how you were pressing the blocks. Do you use a silicon sheet on top of the paper to help press the paper onto the acrylic? When you peel back the paper do you see specs of colour on the paper where it has not sublimated?

So many variables other than time and temperature that can have a negative effect and pressure is one such variable.

As I am no expert, I await patiently for other suggestions.

[Renniwano]

When I did my block I had a piece of rubber sheeting.. not sure if that would help keep the pressure consistent..

[WorthDoingRight]

When I did my block I had a piece of rubber sheeting.. not sure if that would help keep the pressure consistent..

Yes, I use a silicon baking mat on top bought via this link: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/X-Large-Silic ... 460170f855

[mike.hudson]

Hi,

Thanks for all the replies, no I haven't used a silicone sheet or mat so far but you are all pointing at a pressure problem.
I will try with a mat and let you know the outcome.

Mike

[Andrew]

Not knowing how experienced you are at subli printing it looks like to me that the paper has been put in your printer upside down (printing on the wrong side). That's the type of grain effect you get with the paper absorbing the ink into the grain rather than holding it on the surface.

[Paul]

Not knowing how experienced you are at subli printing it looks like to me that the paper has been put in your printer upside down (printing on the wrong side). That's the type of grain effect you get with the paper absorbing the ink into the grain rather than holding it on the surface.

i just thought about this same thing...

[NiNJACQUES]

Not knowing how experienced you are at subli printing it looks like to me that the paper has been put in your printer upside down (printing on the wrong side). That's the type of grain effect you get with the paper absorbing the ink into the grain rather than holding it on the surface.

On that topic, is there anyone who would be interested in a upside down photo mug :redface: I made a few costly mistakes

[mike.hudson]

Hi Andrew,

Having looked in the paper tray of the printer I'm embarrassed to say you are right.
This is the first time I have printed blocks and very carefully remembered not to reverse the image, just reversed the paper!

Thanks everyone for your help.

Mike

[JackB]

On that topic, is there anyone who would be interested in a upside down photo mug :redface: I made a few costly mistakes

I think that is a case of trying to sell snow to eskimo's.:biggrin:
You could always try selling them on ebay.aus

Jack.