Printing Problem - Silicone Pad Not Picking Up Complete Image
Pad-related Possibilities
Corrective Action
Pad durometer is too hard.
Change pad to a softer durometer.
Pad angle is too steep.
Install a less angled pad.
Insufficient ink stroke.
Increase downward force of ink stroke.
Image placement on pad.
Make sure the artwork is aligned as close to the center of the pad without placing it directly on the point of the pad.
Pad surface may be damaged.
Replace pad if there are scuffs, tears or worn areas or if the pad has exceeded its life expectancy.
Ink-related Possibilities
Corrective Action
Ink viscosity is too thick, causing a dry spot in the center.
Add thinner.
Ink has the right viscosity, but small fine details are not picking up.
Use a slower evaporating thinner. Add retarder to slow down drying.
Cliche-related Possibilities
Corrective Action
Etch depth may be too shallow.
Check film density. Remake cliche with shorter screen exposure.
Troubleshooting Tip
When the image is missing in the center of the artwork, it is generally caused by over-compression of the pad, too small of a pad or too steep of an angle.
When the image is missing on the outer edges of an artwork, it is usually caused by the pad alignment, too small a pad or insufficient ink.
When ink is too thick, small detail will not pick up, or it may reveal a dry or missing spot in the middle of the image.
When a cliche is too shallow, the overall appearance is generally very light.
Toll-free telephone support is available from 8 a.m. Eastern Standard Time to 4 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Call (800) 982-1928.
Or, you can e-mail your technical support issue using the form on this page. Be sure to fill in all fields.
A support representative will contact you by e-mail or telephone as quickly as possible.
