3304HA Spray Powder Problem

[DA3304HA]

3304HA 2000 purchased new and one of the biggest problems we have is spray powder. The spray unit in question is the one that came installed from the factory. We also purchased a Midland IR dryer but it has done little to help with the problem. I looking for the best aftermarket solution, that will lay down powder evenly across the entire sheet and provide the control needed for just the correct amount.

This is the workhorse of the shop, which produces work that is becoming more and more challenging.

DA

 

[Jimbo]

If it were my choice I wouldn't lay powder down at all but it doesn't really work that way.

Are your spay lengths set for proper sheet size? and you should be able to see your spray when the IR's light up. If it's uneven you may have a clog so clean those lines and check to see all is in order before paying to fix anything.

What happened that after all this time you needed it fixed, if you don't mind me asking? I'm sure it is an set off issue but why wait so long? I mean, you did say new in 2000. Just curious.

 

[DA3304HA]

All the lines are clean, and the length of spray vs. sheet somehow is connected to the impression and has no adjustment, according to our tech.
When we are running a full size sheet with moderate to heavy ink coverage, i.e. 12.5 x 17.875, to adequately powder the sheet, we always end up with too much, which makes the next pass a stop and go process.

Why after 9years? i was hoping a better product was developed or available. As I mentioned in the original post, the type of work is becoming more difficult with more and more screen builds and solids. It would be nice if we could just add a coater to the delivery, that would fix the problem!

 

[RGPW17100]

Our 3302 had an airtech sprayer and that worked pretty well. Biggest problem was the older versions had a plastic insert into the spray manifold that would ream out the hole when you turned it in too tight and eventually you had tons of powder. They replaced this with a metal insert so you could not over tighten it. Some models had the glass bowl puffer sprayers. Never much liked them for the reasons you are mentioning. See if you can find an air tech. They worked pretty well and you could turn them down real low. With an IR you should only need a few grains on most coated jobs especially with low ink coverage.

 

[Paultheprinter]

your issue might be spray powder and not spray system. try using Tullis russel/russel webb 2v spray powder for comercial work. I run 20,000 coated with fine black screen in grip and no build up. Dont use varn its not that good at moment or past three years. If you cant get the above insist on a VANASHING powder its the nuts.

Paul

 

[DA3304HA]

Paul: we are currently using the Varn so I will try the Tullis Russel it is available in our area.
Any idea which "grade" would be best, we run mostly coated 100# text and cover? i got it that the 50 and 35 are not for me others not sure.
Vanishing??

Grade 1.5S 15 micron
Grade 1.5E 15 micron (electrostatic)
Grade 2.2S 22 micron
Grade 2.5S 25 micron
Grade 5.0E 50 micron (electrostatic)
Grade S88-20 20 micron Ultra Low Dust Uncoated
Grade S88-35 35 micron Ultra Low Dust Uncoated