Conveyor Dryers

What is it for?

Conveyor dryers are essential equipment in the direct-to-garment (DTG) printing process, designed to cure or dry ink directly onto textiles. They ensure the ink adheres properly to the fabric, achieving vibrant colors and durable prints.

• Why is it important?
  • Ensures proper curing of ink, preventing smudging or fading after printing.
  • Increases production efficiency by rapidly drying garments, reducing turnaround times.
  • Improves print quality by eliminating moisture and ensuring consistent ink absorption.

How does it work? Conveyor dryers use a combination of heat and airflow to cure DTG ink effectively. Garments printed with water-based or discharge inks pass through a heated chamber on a conveyor belt, where controlled temperature and airflow settings facilitate the curing process.

• The conveyor belt moves garments through the dryer at a consistent speed, ensuring even drying.
• Heating elements and fans regulate temperature and airflow, optimizing drying conditions for different types of ink and fabrics.

What are the benefits?

• Achieves vibrant, durable prints with excellent color saturation.
• Increases production capacity by drying multiple garments simultaneously.
• Reduces labor costs and manual handling compared to alternative drying methods.

What are the common issues and how can you fix them?

• Inadequate curing: Adjust temperature and belt speed to ensure sufficient drying time.
• Uneven drying: Ensure proper airflow distribution across the conveyor belt.
• Maintenance issues: Regularly clean heating elements and inspect conveyor components to prevent malfunctions.

What are some of the best practices and common mistakes?

• Best Practices:
  • Monitor and adjust temperature and conveyor speed based on ink type and fabric.
  • Conduct regular maintenance to keep equipment in optimal condition.
  • Train operators on proper loading techniques to maximize efficiency and quality.
• Common Mistakes:
  • Over-drying or under-drying garments due to incorrect temperature settings.
  • Neglecting regular maintenance leading to equipment breakdowns and downtime.
  • Failing to optimize airflow, resulting in uneven drying and inconsistent print quality.