Press Types
In its simplest form, a screen press holds the frame in a fixed position over the substrate while the print stroke is pulled. The table or base usually has a grid of small holes hooked to a vacuum to hold the stock in place. Presses designed to print 3D parts or objects may have a jig set-up to hold the stock while printing. The screen is swung away by means of a hinge system so that the printed material can be removed and another piece inserted. The screen is then returned to the original printing position and another print is pulled, and so on.
The ideal press locks the screen frame into position, and returns it to the exact same printing position every time. All the other functions found on different presses allow the operator to gain more and more repeatable control over the different actions and variables that come into play during the act of printing. The physical limitations of an individual pulling a squeegee have resulted in some interesting advances in press design.
