A Guide to Temperature and Dwell Times for Unisub Sublimation Blanks

Sublimation Journal - Unisub Sublimation Blanks Production Guide

Unisub sublimation blanks are a popular choice for creating custom products using the sublimation printing process. The process of sublimation printing involves using a heat press to transfer dye-sublimation ink onto the blank, resulting in a vibrant and long-lasting image or design.

Unisub sublimation blanks are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, including popular items such as photo panels, coasters, clipboards, ornaments, and puzzles.

Let's go over some basic production guidelines for making products with Unisub blanks.

General Pressing Guidelines for Unisub Blanks

When heat pressing Unisub products, a temperature of 400° F is recommended. Using moderate to heavy pressure is suggested as it should require some effort to close the heat press. The time and temperature may vary depending on the heat press and the thickness of the blank material.

It is recommended to adjust the dwell time in increments of 5-10 seconds until the clearest image is achieved. The following times are a general starting point. It is suggested to refer to the documentation from your ink manufacturer for more detailed information on temperature and dwell time determined from their respective in-house studies.

Temperature and Dwell Times for Unisub Blanks

FR Plastic (name badges, bag tags, etc.): 60 - 70 seconds

FR Plastic for outdoor use (license plates): 80 - 90 seconds*

Hardboard (clipboards, coasters, etc.): 60 - 70 seconds

MDF (plaques, paperweights, etc.): 80 - 90 seconds

Phenolic: 45 - 55 seconds

Aluminum (sheet stock and jewelry): 45 - 55 seconds

Aluminum (bookmarks, face down): 60 - 70 seconds Large parts require more time for optimal color. For pieces larger than 9"x12", we suggest adding 15 seconds to the recommended dwell time for that substrate. If needed, incrementally increase the dwell time by 10 seconds until the desired color is achieved.

Take great care when removing finished items from the heat press. To avoid warping, it is recommended to use an oven mitt or rag, let the products cool face down on a solid surface, and place a weighted object on the back of the product. If warping persists, the sublimated piece can be heated again from the backside and cooled. Avoid bending hot products as it may damage the substrate and the sublimated image.

Read: DK20S - The Best Professional Heat Press for Sublimation?

Removing the Protective Film from Blank Substrates

It is possible to damage the edge of a blank part when trying to remove the protective film by picking at it with a fingernail or sharp instrument.

To minimize the risk of damage, we recommend using the tacky side of a recently removed piece of protective film to gently drag along the top surface of the tile, starting at the corner and moving towards the center. If no extra film is available, the pad of your thumb or forefinger can also be used to gently peel back the edge.

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by Jeff Butler · Senior Strategist
Conde Systems, Inc.

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