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screen printing => Screen Making => Topic started by: TCT on December 10, 2020, 09:22:23 AM

Title: 21 step test and CTS
Post by: TCT on December 10, 2020, 09:22:23 AM
How are people using a 21 step test(or Stouffer strip if you prefer) on screens that have been imaged using a CTS unit?

We had always just taped it on a screen every 6 or whatever months to make sure we were still "good". This time though we have changed 2 variables, moved from ink CTS to wax and we are using a special winter blend of our same emulsion. Since this time we are essentially testing with 3 variables(the every 6 month thing is one of them) I wanted to get the most accurate test possible.

Just wondering how others test? Just tape it on the screen like we have done previously? 
Title: Re: 21 step test and CTS
Post by: ericheartsu on December 10, 2020, 09:31:26 AM
that's how we've done it, and we did it like every other month.
Title: Re: 21 step test and CTS
Post by: TCT on December 10, 2020, 10:00:00 AM
that's how we've done it, and we did it like every other month.

Thanks man! Low blow on the underhanded slam... "every other month". Here I thought 6 months was good... ;D ;D
Title: Re: 21 step test and CTS
Post by: Dottonedan on December 10, 2020, 01:14:03 PM
that's how we've done it, and we did it like every other month.

Thanks man! Low blow on the underhanded slam... "every other month". Here I thought 6 months was good... ;D ;D


Are you two using something other than LED to expose and is why you test your exposure strength?
Title: Re: 21 step test and CTS
Post by: TCT on December 10, 2020, 02:21:49 PM
No we use LED. The reason I kept testing it was in case light started may be degrading? That and with the extreme temperature and humidity swings we have up here it is nice to know your screens are solid considering our screens are for DC/WB a half cooked screen is disaster.
Title: Re: 21 step test and CTS
Post by: blue moon on December 11, 2020, 09:47:34 AM
No we use LED. The reason I kept testing it was in case light started may be degrading? That and with the extreme temperature and humidity swings we have up here it is nice to know your screens are solid considering our screens are for DC/WB a half cooked screen is disaster.

6 months should be totally OK with a good quality LED unit. They don't deteriorate very fast unless improperly powered or cooled. Reputable manufacturer should have those under controll.

pierre