Sublimation Tissue Paper
Sublimation tissue paper is a type of thin, translucent paper specifically designed for use with sublimation printing. Sublimation is a printing process that involves transferring dye from a solid state directly onto the surface of materials such as polyester fabric, ceramics, or specially coated metal and plastic. The key characteristic of sublimation tissue paper is that it has been treated with a special coating that allows for the dye to be transferred effectively during the sublimation process.
Description
Company Profile
Yixing Jiapulin New Material Co., Ltd was established in Xinzhuang Industrial Zone in Yixing Jiangsu province in 2017. It is a national high-tech enterprise , a scientific and technological enterprise in Jiangsu Province. The company is committed to digital printing industry, the main product is sublimation transfer paper, also it can provide integrated solutions from development, production to application. At present, there are 5 dividing and cutting machines, 1 rewinder and 2 coating lines in the factory. The sublimation paper in Jiapulin is exported to Europe and United States market and was well received by the market.
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What is Sublimation Tissue Paper
Sublimation tissue paper is a type of thin, translucent paper specifically designed for use with sublimation printing. Sublimation is a printing process that involves transferring dye from a solid state directly onto the surface of materials such as polyester fabric, ceramics, or specially coated metal and plastic. The key characteristic of sublimation tissue paper is that it has been treated with a special coating that allows for the dye to be transferred effectively during the sublimation process.
The tissue paper serves as an intermediate layer between the sublimation print and the final material. It helps to ensure that the ink adheres properly and evenly spreads across the surface, preventing issues like streaking or uneven color saturation. After the sublimation process is complete, the tissue paper is removed, leaving behind a high-quality image on the substrate.
Benefits of Sublimation Tissue Paper
High-quality image transfer
The special coating on the sublimation tissue paper ensures that the dye from the inks is efficiently transferred to the substrate, resulting in vibrant colors and sharp details. This creates a high-resolution print that is resistant to fading or peeling.
Versatility
Sublimation tissue paper can be used on a wide range of materials, including polyester fabrics, hard surfaces like mugs and mousepads, and certain plastics and metals. This versatility allows for a broad spectrum of applications, from personalized clothing and accessories to home decor and promotional items.
Durability
Once the sublimation process is complete, the dye becomes a part of the material's structure, making the prints resistant to wear, washing, and exposure to light. This durability ensures that the designs remain intact for the life of the product.
Efficiency
Using sublimation tissue paper can improve the efficiency of the printing process. The paper helps to guide the flow of the ink and ensures that the dye is uniformly distributed across the substrate. This can lead to faster production times and reduced waste of both ink and materials.
Ease of use
Sublimation tissue paper is designed to be compatible with standard sublimation printers. It is easy to load into the printer, and its thinness allows for quick and accurate printing. Additionally, the paper can be easily cut and shaped to fit specific projects or materials.
Cost-effectiveness
While the initial investment in a sublimation printer and specialized inks may be higher than traditional printing methods, the overall cost-effectiveness of sublimation tissue paper lies in its ability to produce high-quality, durable prints in a single step. This eliminates the need for additional processes like laminating or coating, saving time and money in the long run.
Standard sublimation tissue paper
This is the most basic type and is suitable for a wide range of sublimation projects. It is typically used for transferring images onto polyester fabrics and some hard goods. Standard tissue paper is cost-effective and works well for everyday printing jobs.
Heat-resistant sublimation tissue paper
For printing on materials that require higher heat settings, such as certain types of plastics or metals, heat-resistant tissue paper is used. This paper is designed to withstand higher temperatures without burning or deteriorating, ensuring that the sublimation process is completed successfully.
Thinner sublimation tissue paper
Some projects might require a thinner tissue paper to prevent warping or to achieve a more delicate print. Thinner paper is especially useful for intricate designs where precision is key. However, it is important to ensure that the thinner paper is still robust enough to handle the heat and pressure of the sublimation process.
Thicker sublimation tissue paper
When working with larger or heavier items, thicker tissue paper provides added support and durability. It can help prevent tears and wrinkles during the sublimation process, ensuring a smooth transfer of the dye onto the substrate.
Coated sublimation tissue paper
This type of tissue paper has a special coating that enhances the sublimation process. The coating can improve ink absorption, color vibrancy, and overall print quality. Coated papers are particularly beneficial for complex designs or when working with challenging materials.
Transparent sublimation tissue paper
Transparent paper allows the user to see through it, which can be helpful for aligning the design accurately on the substrate. This is especially useful in situations where precise placement is crucial for the final outcome of the project.
Patterned sublimation tissue paper
Some specialty tissue papers come with pre-printed patterns or designs. These papers can be used as a base for further customization or as a standalone design element, adding texture and depth to the final print.
Material of Sublimation Tissue Paper
Sublimation tissue paper is generally made from a polyester film or a blend of polyesters and other materials. The choice of material is critical because it must be capable of withstanding the high temperatures and pressures involved in the sublimation process without degrading. The polyester film serves as a carrier for the sublimation dyes and facilitates their transition from a solid to a gaseous state.
The polyester film used for sublimation tissue paper is typically very thin and flexible, allowing it to conform to the shape of the object being printed upon. This flexibility ensures that the dye can fully transfer and penetrate the pores of the substrate material. The surface of the tissue paper is usually treated with a sublimation coating that enhances the adhesion of the dye to the substrate.
The coating can vary depending on the intended application and the characteristics of the final print. For example, some coatings may be optimized forbright color reproduction, while others may be formulated to provide better durability or resistance to UV light. The specific composition of the coating affects how the dye interacts with the substrate, influencing factors like color density, contrast, and wash fastness.
In addition to polyester, some sublimation tissue papers may incorporate additives or fillers to enhance performance. These could include materials that improve the paper's stability at high temperatures or reduce curl during the sublimation process.
The material selection for sublimation tissue paper is carefully engineered to provide a reliable and efficient medium for transferring sublimation dyes onto a variety of substrates, ensuring high-quality and long-lasting printed results.
Application of Sublimation Tissue Paper
Textile industry
In the textile industry, sublimation tissue paper is commonly used for designing t-shirts, sportswear, flags, and banners. The paper is placed between the inkjet printer and the fabric, and the design is printed onto the paper first. Then, the printed side is applied to the fabric using heat and pressure, allowing the dye to permeate the fibers and become permanent.
Advertising and promotional products
Companies often use sublimation tissue paper to create customized promotional items, such as mugs, mouse pads, keychains, and phone cases. The paper is applied to the item, and the design is transferred using heat and pressure, creating a high-quality, full-color image that won't fade or peel off.
Home decor
Sublimation tissue paper is also used in creating custom home decor items, such as pillows, curtains, and wall art. The paper is applied to the chosen material, and the design is transferred using heat and pressure, creating a vibrant and long-lasting image.
Photography
Professional photographers often use sublimation tissue paper to create high-quality photo prints. The paper is applied to a specially treated aluminum sheet, and the image is transferred using heat and pressure, creating a glossy, durable, and long-lasting print.
Art and craft
Sublimation tissue paper is also popular among artists and crafters who want to create custom designs on a variety of materials, such as ceramics, wood, glass, and metal. The paper is applied to the material, and the design is transferred using heat and pressure, creating a unique and personalized piece.
Sporting goods
Sublimation tissue paper is used in creating custom sporting goods, such as jerseys, helmets, and equipment bags. The paper is applied to the material, and the design is transferred using heat and pressure, creating a high-quality, full-color image that won't fade or peel off.
Corporate gifts
Corporations often use sublimation tissue paper to create custom gifts for clients, employees, or events. The paper is applied to a variety of items, such as clocks, picture frames, and cutting boards, and the design is transferred using heat and pressure, creating a high-quality, personalized gift.
Process of Sublimation Tissue Paper
The base material for sublimation tissue paper is typically a polyester film due to its thermal stability and ability to bond with sublimation dyes. High-quality polyester with consistent thickness and strength is selected to ensure uniform printing and transfer results.
To enhance the sublimation dye's adhesion to the polyester film, a specialized coating is applied. This coating may contain various chemicals that facilitate the transfer process, improve ink absorption, and provide a smooth surface for printing. The coating is applied evenly across the film using a roller coater or another coating method.
After the coating has been applied, the film passes through calenders-a set of large, heated rollers that flatten and smooth the film. Calendering ensures that the coating is evenly distributed and that the film reaches the desired thickness. It also imparts a gloss finish to the surface, which is beneficial for inkjet printing.
The continuous roll of sublimation tissue paper is then slit into smaller rolls of the required width, which align with standard printing machines. The slitting process must be precise to prevent any damage to the delicate film and ensure that the edges are clean and straight.
Throughout the production process, quality control measures are in place to inspect the film's quality. This includes checking for consistency in the coating, smoothness of the surface, absence of defects, and proper alignment during slitting.
Once the sublimation tissue paper is produced, it is ready to be loaded into an inkjet printer equipped with sublimation dyes. The paper is fed into the printer, where the design is printed using specialized inks that turn from solid to gas without passing through a liquid phase during the sublimation process.
After printing, the sublimation tissue paper with the design face down is placed onto the substrate material (such as fabric, metal, plastic, etc.) that will receive the design. A heat press is then used to apply heat and pressure to the assembly. The temperature and pressure parameters are carefully controlled to ensure optimal dye sublimation and transfer.
Once the sublimation process is complete, the assembly is allowed to cool down. This allows the dye to fully penetrate the substrate material. After cooling, the sublimation tissue paper is gently removed, leaving the design permanently transferred onto the substrate.
Depending on the application, additional finishing steps may be necessary. This could include washing and treating the fabric to set the colors or applying protective coatings to non-fabric items to enhance durability and resistance to fading.
Components of Sublimation Tissue Paper
Polyester film
The core material of sublimation tissue paper is typically a thin polyester film. Polyester is chosen for its excellent thermal stability, which allows it to withstand the high temperatures required for the sublimation process without degrading. Additionally, polyester has a crystalline structure that enables the sublimation dyes to easily penetrate and bond with the fibers of the substrate material.
Sublimation coating
To optimize the transfer of sublimation inks, the polyester film is coated with a specialized substance. This coating can vary depending on the manufacturer but generally contains compounds that enhance the dye's solubility and improve the overall transfer efficiency. It may also include additives to control the ink's flow and prevent issues like bleeding or smudging during the printing process.
Ink receptivity
The coating is formulated to have a high level of receptivity to sublimation inks. These inks are composed of solid particles that turn directly into gases when exposed to heat, bypassing the liquid phase. The coating's chemical composition is tailored to interact with the sublimation inks so that they can be absorbed and held until the transfer process begins.
Surface texture
The surface of sublimation tissue paper may be slightly textured to improve the ink's adhesion and transfer rate. A microscopically rough surface can help to trap more ink particles and ensure that the dye is evenly distributed across the paper.
Thermal bonding properties
During the sublimation process, heat and pressure are applied to bond the dye to the substrate. The coating on the sublimation tissue paper must be able to withstand these conditions without melting or sticking to the substrate. It should release the dye efficiently and allow for a clean separation after the transfer is complete.
Dimensional stability
The polyester film used in sublimation tissue paper must maintain its dimensions throughout the production and sublimation processes. Any significant expansion or contraction could result in registration issues, leading to misaligned or blurred transfers.
Environmental resistance
Sublimation tissue paper is often exposed to varying environmental conditions, including humidity and temperature fluctuations. The coating and polyester film are designed to resist these changes without compromising the integrity of the printed design.
Safety and non-toxicity
Since sublimation tissue paper comes into contact with both inks and substrates, it is essential that the materials used are safe and non-toxic. This is particularly important when dealing with fabrics or items that come into direct contact with skin.
How to Maintain Sublimation Tissue Paper
Store properly
Keep sublimation tissue paper in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. High temperatures and humidity can cause the paper to warp, while UV rays can degrade the coating. Ideally, store the paper in its original packaging or a sealed container to protect it from environmental factors.
Seal after use
If you have opened a package of sublimation tissue paper, make sure to seal it tightly after each use. Exposure to air can lead to moisture absorption, which might affect the paper's performance during the sublimation process.
Avoid contamination
Handle the paper with clean hands or wear gloves to prevent oils and dirt from transferring onto the surface. Always use a new sheet of paper for each print job to avoid contaminating the unused portion of the roll with ink or debris.
Use in clean printers
Ensure that your sublimation printer is well-maintained and free from dust and ink residues. Contaminants in the printer can transfer onto the paper and affect the quality of the print.
Avoid mechanical damage
Be gentle when handling the paper to prevent tearing or creasing. Use a flat surface when feeding the paper into the printer to avoid jams and ensure smooth operation.
Check for expiration
Some sublimation tissue papers have a shelf life, especially if they contain certain types of coatings or chemicals. Check the expiration date before use and replace the paper if it has passed this date.
Follow manufacturer guidelines
Different brands of sublimation tissue paper may have specific storage and usage instructions. Always refer to and follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the best performance.
Dispose of properly
When the sublimation tissue paper is no longer usable, dispose of it according to local waste management regulations. Do not recycle sublimation paper as it may contain inks and coatings that are not suitable for recycling processes.
How to Choose Sublimation Tissue Paper
Compatibility with your printer
Ensure that the sublimation tissue paper is compatible with the type of sublimation printer you own. Different printers may require specific paper sizes or types to function correctly.
Ink compatibility
Verify that the tissue paper is designed for use with the brand and type of sublimation inks you are using. Incompatibilities can lead to poor color saturation, transfer issues, or damage to your printer.
Coating quality
Look for tissue paper with a high-quality coating that enhances ink absorption and transfer. A good coating will also release the dye evenly onto the substrate without leaving residue or causing mottling.
Material thickness
The thickness of the paper affects the transfer process. A thicker paper may provide better support during printing but can also lead to a less efficient transfer. Consider the balance between durability and transfer efficiency when choosing the paper's thickness.
Surface texture
The texture of the paper can influence the print quality. A smooth surface tends to produce sharper images, while a slightly textured surface might be better for avoiding ink pooling. Choose based on the desired finish of your prints.
Brand reputation
Opt for a reputable brand known for producing high-quality sublimation products. Established brands often offer better consistency and reliability.
Price vs. Quality
Compare prices while considering the quality of the paper. Higher-priced papers may offer superior performance and longevity, but there are also cost-effective options that deliver good results for less.
Reviews and samples
Before making a purchase, read reviews from other users to understand the performance of the tissue paper under different conditions. Some manufacturers offer sample packs, which allow you to test the paper's suitability for your specific application.
Ease of use
Consider how easy the paper is to handle and feed through your printer. Papers that cause frequent jams or wrinkles can increase production time and reduce efficiency.
Substrate suitability
Ensure that the tissue paper is suitable for the type of substrate you plan to print on (e.g., fabric, metal, plastic). Different substrates may require different types of paper for the best transfer results.
How Sublimation Tissue Paper Works
Sublimation tissue paper plays a pivotal role in the sublimation printing process by serving as an intermediary layer between the ink and the substrate material. Here's how it works in detail:
Sublimation process overview: Sublimation is a phase transition where a substance directly changes from a solid to a gas without passing through the liquid phase. In the context of printing, this process is used to transfer images from a solid medium (such as sublimation ink) to a substrate (like fabric, metal, or ceramic).
Sublimation tissue paper structure: The tissue paper is specially treated with a sublimation coating that allows sublimation inks to adhere to its surface. This coating is typically made up of polymers that have been engineered to hold the ink until it is subjected to heat and pressure during the sublimation process.
Printing onto the tissue paper: When the image is printed using sublimation inks onto the tissue paper, the solid ink particles are absorbed by the coating. The paper itself remains unchanged except for the presence of the embedded ink.
Heat transfer: The next step involves placing the printed tissue paper onto the substrate material. The entire setup is then placed under a heat press. The heat press applies both high temperature and pressure to the assembly.
Sublimation phase transition: Under the influence of heat, the sublimation inks transition from a solid state directly to a gaseous state. The temperature must be precisely controlled; it should be high enough to cause sublimation but not so high as to damage the substrate material.
Adhesion to the substrate: As the gaseous ink expands, it permeates the pores or fibers of the substrate material. The pressure from the heat press ensures that the gas comes into close contact with the substrate, facilitating the transfer of the dye molecules.
Cooling and solidification: Once the sublimation process is complete, the heat press is removed, and the assembly is allowed to cool down. As the temperature decreases, the gaseous ink molecules condense and solidify, permanently bonding to the substrate material.
Final result: The result is a vivid, full-color image that appears to be part of the substrate itself, rather than a print on top of it. The colors are typically very durable, resistant to fading, and do not crack or peel over time.
Advantages of sublimation tissue paper: Using tissue paper provides several advantages, such as reducing ink smudging during the transfer process, ensuring even ink distribution, and minimizing ink buildup on the heat press. Additionally, it allows for complex designs and gradients to be transferred with high fidelity.
Sublimation tissue paper is integral to the sublimation printing process due to its unique ability to absorb and transfer sublimation inks efficiently onto a wide range of substrates, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting images.
Certifications
Our Factory
The company's management team has decades of research, development and production management experience in large domestic paper groups. Under the leadership of the core team, the company continues to strengthen the abilities of independent innovation and scientific research and development, to maintain the company's product quality and technology leadership. At present, the company has 19 national invention and utility model patents, 2 trademarks and 4 copyrights. With stable and reliable product quality, high cost performance, the company constantly pursue customers'satisfaction. Through brand building,it will gradually make Jiapulin a leader in sublimation transfer paper industry at home and abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is sublimation tissue paper?
Q: Why is sublimation tissue paper necessary?
Q: Can any type of paper be used for sublimation?
Q: How do I know if my printer is compatible with sublimation tissue paper?
Q: What size tissue paper should I use?
Q: Can I reuse sublimation tissue paper?
Q: How do I load the tissue paper into the printer?
Q: What side of the tissue paper should face the substrate during the transfer?
Q: Can I use sublimation tissue paper with any sublimation ink?
Q: How do I store sublimation tissue paper?
Q: Is sublimation tissue paper recyclable?
Q: What happens if the tissue paper gets wrinkled before transfer?
Q: Do I need to preheat the heat press before using sublimation tissue paper?
Q: What temperature should I set the heat press for sublimation?
Q: How long should I apply pressure during sublimation?
Q: Can I use sublimation tissue paper on dark substrates?
Q: Can sublimation tissue paper be used on fabrics?
Q: Can I use sublimation tissue paper for outdoor applications?
Q: How do I remove excess sublimation ink from the heat press?
Q: Can I adjust the pressure on the heat press for sublimation?
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