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What steps should be taken to properly sublimate metal?

  1. Using photoshop, or any other graphic formatting software, prepare your desired image. Said image is then moved to a RIP software in conjunction with a dye-sub printer.
  2. Using a printer, with paper and ink all specifically for dye-sublimation, print the transfer (donor) paper. Allow the transfer to dry completely, perhaps as long as 30 minutes. 
  3. The blank metal panel has a protective film that needs to be removed pre-sublimation. Clean the panel, front and back, with denatured alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, Windex with ammonia, or any other nonabrasive cleaner using a clean, lint-free cloth. Ensure the panel and transfer are clean and dust free; compressed air can be used if necessary.
  4. Secure the panel to the transfer using heat tape, and place coating side up, centered within the heat press. If working with ChromaLuxe, it can be sublimated anywhere from 315 F to 400 F for up to 8 minutes. PSI must also be taken into account to get consistent pressure and heat across the coating surface. 
  5. Post-sublimation: Allow the panel to cool and peel the used transfer. 

   —Unisub

josh bender Universal woods

Josh Bender

Josh is a marketing communications manager in the US for Universal Woods LLC, and its brands Unisub and ChromaLuxe. He has over 10 years of managerial experience within service and manufacturing businesses and over five years of technical sublimation experience. Josh can be reached by email at josh.bender@chromaluxe.com.

View all articles by Josh Bender  

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