What machines are needed to make printing screens?
To make a screen printing stencil (printing screen), you need a set of plate-making machines. Below is the standard equipment list with functions and English terms:
1. Screen Stretcher
Function: Stretch polyester/nylon/stainless steel mesh tightly and evenly onto an aluminum frame (tension: 18–30 N/cm²).
Type: Pneumatic (common), mechanical, or manual (small batch).
2. Screen Coating Machine
Function: Apply photosensitive emulsion evenly on both sides of the mesh (thickness 5–50 μm).
Type: Squeegee-type (manual) or automatic roller coating (high precision)
3. Drying Oven / Screen Dryer
Function: Dry the emulsion-coated screen at 35–45°C (dust-free, no UV light).
Type: Cabinet oven (batch) or vertical drying rack
4. Vacuum Exposure Machine
Function: Expose the dry emulsion with UV light (1000–3000W) through a film positive; unexposed areas wash away to form the stencil.
Key: Vacuum seal ensures sharp edges; LED exposure machine for high screen printing
5. Screen Cleaning Machine
Function: Degrease new mesh or remove old emulsion/ink from used screens (recycling).
Type: Ultrasonic or high-pressure water spray
Standard Workflow
Stretch mesh → Coat emulsion → Dry → Expose → Develop → Dry → Inspect