Learn more about swing-away transfer presses
They are characterised by having a system that moves the heating plate to one side. This swing-away system allows the base plate to remain clear, making it easier to prepare the product and preventing burns during the customisation process.
Some models also feature automatic opening systems, which increase precision and productivity. When purchasing a heat press of this type, you should consider the size of your workspace, as you will need more room than with a clamshell press.
→ HOW TO CHOOSE A SWING-AWAY PRESS
If you are unsure which transfer press best suits your workflow and production level, here are the 3 key features to consider when choosing your press:
1. What size are the products you are going to personalise?
The dimensions of the item will determine the printing area and, therefore, the size of the plate of the press. There are many sizes, from small plates of 15x15 cm to large presses with plates of 120x100 cm. In some cases, you may find different dimensions within the same press model.
If this is your first press, we recommend choosing a plate size that is slightly larger than necessary. This way, you will be able to personalise larger products or press several at once, optimising your working time.
2. Digital or analogue control panel?
Transfer presses operate based on three parameters: temperature, time, and pressure. Depending on the customisation technique, the material used, and the item to be personalised, you will apply different variables.
To adjust these parameters, presses are equipped with either a digital or analogue control panel to select the desired time and temperature. In most models, these controls are digital, allowing for faster and more precise work, thus achieving better results. However, there are also more affordable clamshell presses with analogue controls.
3. Manual, semi-automatic, or automatic press?
Our presses feature manual, semi-automatic, or automatic opening and closing mechanisms, but which should you choose?
· Manual presses: are the simplest and most economical. Their opening and closing system is manual, so the pressure adjustment is subjective and may result in more errors. Nevertheless, they are the perfect solution if you have a limited budget or will be using the press occasionally.
· Magnetic or semi-automatic presses: with a manual closing and automatic opening system. That is, the press must be closed manually, and once the time has elapsed, it opens automatically thanks to the built-in electromagnets. This allows for greater productivity, as the user can perform other tasks while the press is operating. However, the pressure adjustment remains subjective.
· Automatic presses: have an automatic opening and closing system. These can be:
- Pneumatic: these are the most sophisticated and productive version. The opening and closing system is operated by air using one or more pistons, and a compressor is required. Thanks to this mechanism, the pressure adjustment is regulated by a manometer.
- Electric: the opening and closing system is operated by a motor and the pressure applied by the heating plate is adjustable from the control panel. In this case, a compressor is not required.
→ COMPARISON TABLE: TYPES OF MECHANISMS
| Manual | Magnetic | Pneumatic | Electric |
| Simple and economical | Greater productivity | Operate with a compressor | No compressor required |
| Manual opening and closing | Manual closing and automatic opening | Automatic opening and closing | Automatic opening and closing |
| Subjective pressure | Subjective pressure | Adjustable pressure | Adjustable pressure |