More information about the Sublimable Decorative Ceramic Tiles with Matte Finish

INDEX

> Description

> Things to keep in mind

> Dimensions

> Recommended sublimation instructions and parameters

› Recommendations

› With flat transfer press – Direct method

› With flat transfer press – Indirect method

› With sublimation oven

DESCRIPTION

• Perfect for personalising and creating decorative elements, coasters, collages, etc.
• Suitable for indoor or outdoor placement
• White sublimation surface. Reverse in natural ceramic
• Tiles have straight corners
• Can be sublimated using a flat transfer press or a 3D oven with vacuum membrane

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

• Tiles are for decorative use only. Not suitable for construction or food use

DIMENSIONS

RECOMMENDED SUBLIMATION INSTRUCTIONS AND PARAMETERS

BEFORE STARTING THE SUBLIMATION PROCESS

If the tile has been stored in a cold place, it may have absorbed moisture, which can affect sublimation. In these circumstances, it is recommended to:

• Pre-press or pre-heat the tile with the sublimation side facing up and protective paper, at 175 ºC for 5-10 seconds with medium/high pressure
  
• Allow the tile to cool before starting the sublimation process

RECOMMENDATIONS

• Tiles can be sublimated with a flat transfer press using the direct method or the indirect method. It is advisable to run tests to determine which of these methods produces the highest print quality. Likewise, testing will allow you to adjust the sublimation parameters
• Pressing times should be increased for larger tiles. For example, using the indirect method: 300 seconds is sufficient for 10 x 10 cm tiles, 320-350 seconds for 15 x 15 cm tiles, and 360-400 seconds for those measuring 20 x 20 cm
• A sign that the transfer process has lasted the correct time is that the amount of residual ink on the paper is minimal
• It is important to follow the ink manufacturer’s colour profile guidelines
• Tiles may have irregularities on the sublimation surface. If you choose to use the direct sublimation method with a flat transfer press, to ensure even transfer it is recommended: (1) once the pressing time has elapsed, open the press and, without removing the tile, slightly lift the paper from one corner (without removing it completely); (2) if the image has not transferred correctly to the tile surface, replace the paper and rotate the tile 180º. Press again for an additional 50 seconds

WITH FLAT TRANSFER PRESS – DIRECT METHOD

• Print the paper in mirror mode and trim it
• Set the press to 180 ºC
• Use a Nomex pad on the lower plate of the press to ensure even heat distribution
• Place the printed paper on the tile and attach it with heat-resistant tape. Place the tile and paper with the sublimation side facing up on the press plate
• Press with medium-high pressure for 180 seconds. Depending on the size of the tile, you may need to slightly adjust the pressing time
• Using a protective glove, remove the freshly sublimated tile
• Carefully remove the printed paper

WITH FLAT TRANSFER PRESS – INDIRECT METHOD

• Print the paper in mirror mode and trim it
• Set the press to 180 ºC
• Use a Nomex pad on the lower plate of the press to ensure even heat distribution
• Place the printed paper on the tile and attach it with heat-resistant tape. Place the tile and paper with the sublimation side facing down on the press plate
• Press at medium/high pressure for 300 seconds. Depending on the size of the tile, you may need to slightly increase the pressing time (see Recommendations section)
• Using a protective glove, remove the freshly sublimated tile
• Carefully remove the printed paper

WITH SUBLIMATION OVEN

• Print the design you wish to transfer onto the tile in mirror mode
• Preheat the oven to 175 ºC
• Place the printed design face down on the white side of the tile and secure with heat-resistant tape
• If using a 3D oven, insert the tile with the side to be printed facing up. Close the membrane and create the vacuum. Ensure there are no air bubbles on the surface
• Another option is to use shrink bags. With the help of a heat gun, secure the design to the tile, removing all air from inside
• Close the oven and operate for 13 minutes
  
• Open the oven and, using a protective glove, remove the freshly sublimated tile
• Carefully remove the printed paper