the HIX ADVANTAGE › wp-content › uploads › 2018 › 09 › ...the HIX Advantage 2 WHO WE ARE WHO WE ARE HIX Corporation is a global producer of heat transfer and screen-print

theHIX ADVANTAGE2017 Authorized HIX Distributor Guide

CONTACT

ADDRESS

HIX Corporation1201 E. 27th TerracePittsburg, KS 66762

PHONE & FAX

Ph : 620.231.2221 : 800.835.0606Fax : 620.231.1598

ONLINE

Email : [email protected] : www.hixcorp.comGraphic Imaging : www.hixgraphics.comCommercial Food : www.doughxpress.comIndustrial Ovens : www.hixovens.com

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Purpose Of TrainingTo teach sales and service personnel the technical, operational, and selling skills necessary to be proficient in the sale of HIX heat transfer machines.

ScopeThis module will provide knowledge of the terminology, manufacturing process, hands-on application, model by model features, benefits, and warranty.

About the Hix Advantage .................................................................................. 1

Who We Are ......................................................................................................... 2

Introduction to Heat Transfer .......................................................................... 4

Terminology.......................................................................................................... 5

Advising the Proper Heat Press ..................................................................... 9

Heat Transfer Press Overview .......................................................................12

HTM – Clamshell Presses ............................................................................... 17

HTM – Swing-Away Presses ..........................................................................23

HTM – Specialty Presses ................................................................................29

HTM – Accessories ..........................................................................................33

Frequently Asked Questions .........................................................................36

HIX HTM Pressure .............................................................................................41

HIX HTM Life Expectancy ...............................................................................42

Warranty ..............................................................................................................43

Recieving / Shipping / Returns ......................................................................44

Common Technical Service Questions .......................................................45

Troubleshooting Chart ....................................................................................46

Customer Service Sheets ...............................................................................48

Common Parts By Equipment .......................................................................49

HIX HTM Technical Features List ..................................................................51

HIX HTM Weights & Dimensions ..................................................................55

HTM Item Numbers ..........................................................................................56

HTM Accessories Item Numbers ..................................................................58

CONTENTS

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WHO WE ARE HIX Corporation is a global producer of heat transfer and screen-print equipment, commercial food equipment, and ov-ens and dryers for industrial manufacturing.

Our team of product designers, engineers, and production specialists who are focused on innovation, technology, and quality products. Their years of experience, innovation and commitment to quality are the hallmarks of our company.

Located in the heart of the Midwest (Pittsburg, KS) design and manufacturing of all HIX equipment is completed in our 110,000 square foot manufacturing facility. Our manufacturing center includes an aluminum foundry, CNC mill operations, laser cutting, welding, metal forming, wiring, fabrication, assembly, and packaging departments. By having a completely integrated facility, HIX can monitor and ensure consistent manufacturing control and delivery.

Our customer service representatives and sales professionals are trained in the very factory where we build our products and are well prepared to provide you with solutions for your opportunities.

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UNDERSTANDINGHEAT APPLIEDGRAPHICS

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INTRODUCTION TO HEAT TRANSFERThere are three things that affect the success of heat-applied transfers. Every heat press must be able to control time, temperature and pressure.

Time – Time can be controlled by a simple timer. Time can also be regulated by an integrated digital controller, starting a count-down when the press closes, and sounding an audible alert at the end. The digital controller can also be combined with an automatic opening feature of the press. In this case, once the count-down is complete, the press not only sounds an audible alarm, but also automatically opens up ending the transfer process.

• Presses with an external (non-integrated) timer are: Hobby Lite, SwingMan-15 and SwingMan-20E

• Presses with an integrated timer but without auto-open feature are: B-250, FH-3000. HT-400, HT-600, Swing-Man-20, SwingMan-25, SwingMan-20 Twin and SwingMan-25 Twin

• Presses with an integrated timer and auto-open feature are: S-450, S-650, N-640 and N-880

Temperature – Reliable temperature is a key issue in most transfer application failures. When a 350° readout is really only 320°F, a transfer requiring 350° for application won’t work. A (even slightly) warped heat casting can lead to uneven-ly applied heat in which case the transfer will not adhere to the substrate. HIX creates its own heat casting with cast-in heating rod. During inspection, castings are tested to be within 3% of the dialed-in temperature. Other manufacturers produce heat presses that may use two elements or heating rods inside their heat platen. If the tolerance of each of these two heating rods is ±3%, at 400°F this amounts to a variance of +/-12° a total of 24°F variance which is a recipe for failure. Aside from accuracy, the other important factor is heat recovery. Heat recovery is the time your press needs to return to the set operating temperature after a transfer. If heat recovery of your press takes 15 seconds, that much time is waste with each cycle. Shortening that wait time, on the other hand, can lead to imperfect transfers. So, when speed is an issue, fast heat recovery is critical as well. For this reason, we offer both a 120V and a 220V variety with most of our presses. Especially for the N-680 and N-880, the higher voltage option may be recommended to obtain the fastest heat recovery time.

Pressure – Even and consistent pressure during the entire cycle time is critical for good transfer application. Poor align-ment of the heat head with lower platen, warped castings, and pad buildup or damage may all contribute to pressure failures. At HIX, after a prolonged aging process, all upper and lower castings are “fly cut” on a CNC Mill. This process ensures that the castings are true and flat. For further information on pressure, please see page 41.

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EQUIPMENT TERMINOLOGYHeat Press

A heat press is the machine that presses a transfer onto an imprintable substrate. Using high temperatures and specified pressures for a certain amount of time, the transfer is permanently attached to or embedded into the product. Heat presses are available with various-sized platens, with clamshell or swing-away heating elements, and with manual or automatic release features. Some heat presses are created for specific uses, like cap or mug presses. The maximum print size of your printer should match the platen size of your press. Heat presses are recommended for commercial and professional results simply because standard laminating devices and home hand irons cannot produce the con-sistent pressure and high temperatures required for a reliable transfer. Depending on the type of application, transfers require anywhere from 200 to 425 degrees F and may demand serious force in pressing. These temperatures and pressures are not possible with other heated devices.

Platen or Casting

The working surface, whether the upper or lower castings, of the heat transfer machine. For example, the HIX Swing-Man-15 manual-press has a 15” x 15” lower and upper platen size. HIX heat castings are hand-poured aluminum alloy with the heat rod cast into the casting, providing a life-long and even-temperature platen, the heart of the transfer machine.

Lower/Upper Platen/Element

Lower castings are generally padded with a “compressible”, heat resistant and durable foam pad. Upper castings are the ones containing the heating rod or element.

Pad Protector

The foam pad covering the lower platen can be further protected with a heat-resistant pad protector or fitted sleeve. This provides an easy-to-clean surface and prevents inks and humidity from penetrating and prematurely deteriorating the compressible pad. Because of the slippery surface of the pad protector, it also allows for quicker loading and unload-ing of substrates that might otherwise catch on the platen pad.

Floating Lower

The capacity of a lower platen to adjust itself to the thickness of the substrate, simply by adjusting the pressure. Most clamshell transfer machines in the market are equipped with a “fixed” or un-movable lower platen, creating a “pinch-ing” effect onto the substrate. For T-shirts, this is of no relevance. However, for thicker and harder substrates such as tiles, wooden plaques etc., this pinching effect will result in uneven pressure and failed transfer.

A floating lower eliminates this inherent disadvantage that exists with clamshell-style transfer machines.

Substrate

The item on which a transfer is being applied. Whether a T-shirt, mouse pad, tile or a coffee mug; it is that which is to receive the transfer.

Maximum Substrate Thickness

The thickest substrate on which a specific transfer machine can print.

This maximum substrate thickness is a function of the maximum distance between the upper and lower platen with the machine in closed position. Maximum substrate thickness varies between machine models from 1/8” to 1 ¾”. This is one of the reasons why it is important to understand the future use of a machine before deciding on a particular model.

Control Housing

The machine’s housing which contains all wiring, relays, thermostats and/or digital controller cards, at HIX informally called the “doghouse”.

Arm/handle

The handle is the hand-grip of the machine where the operator exerts the pressure or the up, down or sideways move-ment.

The arm or arm linkage is the mechanism that translates the operator’s clamping pressure into a total platen pressure onto the substrate. A well-designed arm linkage can comfortably multiply the operator’s effort into a serious clamping pressure. An ergonomic design adds to the user-friendliness of the machine and greatly enhances the operator’s ex-perience, reducing fatigue level.

Pad

The compressible, silicone cushioning of the lower platen, providing a firm, durable but flexible working surface. HIX’ pads are custom manufactured with longevity and durability in mind. Pads can be replaced throughout the lifetime of the press. HIX supplies pad replacement kits which contain the pad, tools, special heat-resistant adhesive and re-placement instructions.

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SM

Short for SwingMan: the product name for most HIX swing-away style presses.

LF

Short for Large Format: a format beyond a 20 x 25” working surface.

Manual Press

A fully-manual press is closed and opened with manual force only, applied by the operator.

The HIX B- and HT-series are manual clamshell machines. The HIX Hobby Lite and SwingMan machines are manual swing-away machines.

Semi-Automatic Press

A semi-automatic transfer press is closed manually but opens automatically. This feature greatly increases operator comfort, reduces fatigue and increases throughput. Heat and pressure are relieved automatically at the time set on the controller.

The HIX N and S-series are semi-automatic machines. The HIX N-series press requires the operator to manually lower the handle to about 3” away from the lower platen, at which point the automatic clamping and opening cycle is initiated.

Automatic Press

An automatic heat transfer press opens and closes automatically. Usually, the customer operates the machine simply by pressing a start-button after loading the machine with the substrates. Once the cycle is complete, the press opens automatically.

The HIX R2R (Roll-to-Roll) Label Press as well as the LF-4464 are full-automatic presses.

Analog

Analog presses are equipped with non-digital or non-integrated time and temperature devices. HIX supplies its analog presses with stick-on (non-integrated) digital timers. Temperature controllers are non-digital thermostats with decal temperature read-outs. Analog presses are mostly equipped with red heat indicator lights which extinguish when the set operating temperature has been reached.

Digital

Digital presses are equipped with digital time, temperature and pressure read-out values. The digital controllers digitally show operator set temperature and time, actual temperature and time, as well as actual pressure. Time and tempera-ture can be set simply by changing the settings on the touch-screen controller. Pressure can be read digitally, but must be set manually by turning the pressure knob clockwise (for increased pressure) or counter-clockwise (for decreased pressure).

CE/UL/ETL certified

Electric and safety certifications which apply to certain models of presses.

Clamshell

Clamshell presses open and close vertically, in one movement (up-down).

Their advantage is speed of operation and small footprint. Their drawback is substrate accessibility and visibility. Clam-shell presses are mostly recommended for volume operations where speed is of the essence.

Swing-Away

HIX swing-Away presses open and close vertically, then horizontally (swing-away) to the right. Their advantage is visibility and accessibility of the working surface. Their drawback is additional footprint needed (to provide clearance for the upper platen swinging away) and loss of speed (due to the additional horizontal movement). Swing-away presses are mostly recommended with thicker applications and other applications requiring precise layout of the design.

Hold-down blanket

A heat-resistant sheet which holds down the transfer prior to closing the press. For example, the HIX B-250 Cap Press is equipped with this feature which allows the operator to accurately position the transfer prior to starting the compres-sion cycle (at which time no further transfer adjustment is possible).

PTFE

Polytetrafluoroethylene is a synthetic fluoropolymer with numerous applications. The best known brand name of PT-FE-based formulas is TeflonTM by DuPont. HIX pad protectors and transfer sheets as well as the B-250 hold-down blanket are made out of PTFE material.

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Dwell Time

Total heat and/or compression time of the substrate in the transfer press or device. The operator sets the dwell time through manipulation of the touch-screen controller. Dwell times can range anywhere form 2 seconds (e.g. for care labels in the R2R press) to 15 minutes (e.g. for mugs in the HIX SubliPro ovens). Dwell times are generally provided by the substrate manufacturer and/or the transfer manufacturer. HIX manual and digital presses and equipment can be set to match the broad spectrum of recommended dwell times.

Cycle time

Total time between the start and the end of the transfer operation.

The cycle time starts by pressing the start button (on a full automatic machine) or by lowering the handle (on a manual or semi-automatic press). The cycle time ends after the compression is completed and the press returns to the starting position.

The cycle time includes the dwell time. Cycle times are used to calculate total hourly volume capacity of a press (e.g. a cycle time of 1 minute results in an hourly volume of 60 units).

Splitting a shirt

A term used for separating the front and back of a shirt before the compression. This is often done in order to avoid “bleeding” or migration of transfer colors from the front to the back of the shirt, a behavior frequently observed with sublimation applications.

To avoid this color migration, HIX has designed a few accessories such as the Split adapter stand and the Universal stand. Both accessories allow for one side of the shirt to hang underneath the lower platen while the other side is being compressed.

TRANSFER APPLICATION TERMINOLOGYHeat Transfer

In its simplest form, a heat transfer is defined as an image or graphic design that is printed onto specially designated paper. This image can then be transferred onto a wide variety of substrates with the use of time, temperature and pressure.

Cold Peel Transfer

Cold Peel Transfer is a transfer whereby the paper is allowed to cool prior to removal of the carrier paper. These transfers are generally on a “full release” paper; whereby all of the ink is transferred from the paper to the substrate. The “hand” or feel of the shirt is hard and solid

Hot Split Transfer

A transfer which is peeled immediately upon the completion of the transfer dwell time. These transfers are printed on a paper with low release properties. The hot split transfer, when heated, allows for the ink to literally separate. When peeled, the ink splits leaving a small amount of ink residue on the paper giving the garment the look and feel of a soft hand similar to a screen-printed shirt.

Hot Peel Transfer

A transfer with a similar “hand” as the hot split and which can also be used on dark fabric.

Hand

The degree to which a print or a transfer is discernible to the touch. A soft hand print/transfer cannot be distinguished from the feel of the unprinted garment. A hard hand feels solid and plastic-like.

Flock

A velvet-like, synthetic fabric which offers a three dimensional quality that is durable and inexpensive. Can be permanent-ly applied to most fabrics with the exception of 100% nylon. Great for unique fabrics such as corduroy. Flock transfers generally are cold peel.

Foils

A metallic film which is either printed with an adhesive or is sometimes used in a two-part type transfer giving a shiny, glittery, metallic sheen look to the substrate. Foils come in a variety of colors and are usually the type of transfers one would find in the boutiques because they give the appearance of flash and draw attention, especially when applied on dark or black fabrics.

Puff

A hot split specialty transfer that has a chemical blowing agent which usually reacts (at 375° - 400°F) with the ink and “puffs up” giving an added dimension to the transfer. Puff inks are used in transfers either singularly or in combination with hot split inks to give a special highlighted effect to the transfer.

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Digital Transfer

A transfer that is printed through a digital device such as an ink jet printer, laser printer or color laser copier. By using the digital four-color process CMYK - Cyan (blue), Magenta (red) Yellow and Black, or 3-color without the black - one can create an infinite array of colors in one image.

CLC Transfer Paper

Specialty-coated transfer papers used to apply computer-generated graphics onto substrates. The coating on the paper accepts and holds the inks or toners from various computer printers or color laser copiers. In the transfer process, the paper’s coating carries the inks or toners and embeds them into the surface of the substrate.

InkJet transfer

Can be made on a standard ink jet printer using coated ink jet transfer paper. Similar to the CLC papers, ink jet transfer papers also have a coating that melts and fuses the ink to the substrate. The beauty of printing digital ink jet transfers is that they are inexpensive to make and the print holds up well when washing the garment.

CLC/ CLP Digital Transfers

The term CLC is an acronym for Color Laser Copier. These CLC transfers are printed on specially coated transfer paper. The term CLP stands for Color Laser Printer. Digital CLP transfers are printed on a color laser printer with standard toners onto a coated transfer paper. The transfer paper is coated with heat transferable polyester coating that bonds the laser toner to the garments by trapping the ink between the polyester coating and the garment.

Although CLC’s and CLP processes are similar, the same cannot be said about the paper stock used. Many papers used with CLC’s will not work in CLP’s as the fusing process is hotter in CLC’s, causing the toner to melt the coated paper in the fuser section of the copy machine. Laser papers are designed to accept toners/dyes from color laser printers. These papers are specially designed for the high temperatures in the fusing section of laser printers.

Opaque

Opaque papers are designed to allow a transfer on dark colored substrates. There are one-step opaque papers and two-step papers. Two-step papers give a white surface to transfer to. One-step papers incorporate opacity with the inks/ toners used. Opaque is recommended for cottons only.

Sublimation

Sublimation is defined as “causing a solid or gas to change state without becoming liquid.” The sublimation process is used to imprint objects by applying dyes that change from a solid into a gas when heated. In order for the process to succeed, the substrate needs to possess a high level of polyester, or have a polyester surface applied to accept the sublimation ink when heated.

To transfer the sublimated image from the paper carrier to the substrate, the paper is placed in contact with the substrate and heated to the appropriate temperature in the range of 385 to 425 depending on the ink manufacturer’s guidelines. When heated properly, the molecules of the polyester coating on the substrate combine with the sublimation gas molecules. When the polyester coating cools, it traps the ink. Digital sublimation transfers are typically printed on an ink jet printer using special sublimation ink cartridges and transfer paper made specifically for sublimation. Full color sublimation transfers allow for printing on polyester clothing and specially coated woods, metals, plastics, glass and ceramics. They are bright, rich full color and give sharp images.

Substrates

For digital transfers, there are two categories of substrates:

• Soft or flexible Substrates: T-shirts, sweat shirts, hats, aprons, tote bags, mouse pads, place mats, fabric coasters, fabric notebooks and photo albums, puzzles, beverage insulators, visors etc. They generally can be decorated using all transfer types (ink jet, laser, resin/thermal, CLC and sublimation).

• Hard or rigid Substrates: Plaques, coasters, clipboards, dry erase boards, clocks, picture frames, li-cense plates, name badges, luggage tags, magnetic material ceramic mugs, tiles, metal plaques, glass plaques, etc. All these can be decorated with sublimation and with CLC transfers.

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HOW TO ADVISE THE PROPER HEAT TRANSFER PRESS

Qualifying the customer is part of the sales process. Before being able to advise the proper equipment, here are some suggested steps to include in your observations and presentation to the customer.

1. Understanding the customer’s environment

a. Who will be using/carrying the machine (strength/stamina of the operator, height, age, turn-over rate)?

b. Where will they be working (a workshop environment, a kitchen table, a trade show demonstration, a flea market inside a trailer)?

c. Whom will they be working with (other employees, children, a classroom of adults for hands-on first- time experience)?

d. A point-of-sale environment?

e. A workshop with daily volume requirement (what volume and how many hours)?

f. An occasional hobby or fund-raiser project?

2. The transfer-specifics

a. What type of substrate will the customer be working with (textile only, hard substrates, both)?

b. What size of substrates will they work with (children clothing, adult’s sizes only, all sizes, 40 x 60” aluminum plates, puzzles and mouse pads, mugs)?

c. What type of transfers will be used (sublimation on textile and non-textile, hot peel transfers on deli- cate textiles, foil on black T-shirts, flock or vinyl letter and numbers on sport shirts)?

d. What size of transfers will be applied (A4-size, 14” x 14”, 15” x 19”, 40” x 60”)?

3. Price

a. What is the customer’s budget (individual, business)?

b. Trade-off between quality and price when considering reliability (cheaper presses mostly quit when most needed, in the middle of a heavy work-flow; consider the cost of lost revenue).

c. Trade-off between quality and price when considering capability (savings of a smaller or cheaper press versus additional projects that can be accomplished).

d. Trade-off between quality and price when considering productivity (semi-automatic and automatic presses are more expensive that manual presses, but can work faster, savings time and/or increas-ing potential volume)

e. Trade-off between manual, semi-automatic and automatic press (ease of operation, user fatigue, quality/quantity of work versus one-time investment in equipment)

4. Machine-specific question #1: Clamshell or swing-away press? Choosing the right model is a combina-tion of personal preference and functionality.

a. The clamshell design (opens and closes vertically, like a clamshell) is com- pact in design, easy to use with one motion to close/open and uses counter space only as large as the press itself. The clamshell is typically lighter weight and are more portable. Clamshell presses are recommended for businesses only doing transfers to T-shirts and sweatshirts. An air automatic clamshell is ideal in high production T-shirt shops.

b. The swing-away heat transfer machine design has an upper heat platen that completely swings away from the substrate for easy access when placing transfers or lettering onto the substrate. Be- cause the swing-away platens stay parallel and close at all points simultaneously, they also works well for thicker substrates such as wooden plaques and ceramic tiles. The swing-away press requires more counter space for the heat head to swing away from the substrate and takes longer to operate due to swinging the heat platen away and back over the substrate/lower platen.

5. Machine-specific question #2: Manual, semi-automatic or automatic press?

a. Manual press: − when a smaller budget is the key issue, − work is infrequent − operator is capable of continued operation − operators can work in short shifts

b. Semi-automatic press − Budget is still an issue, but less so − Operator comfort is important − Transfer dwell times can be long − Point-of-sale environment

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− Operator comfort and/or volume production is most important − Operator strength needs support − Mostly T-shirt substrates − Point-of-sale environment

6. Machine-specific question #3: press size? Choosing the correct size is function of

a. Today’s needs - determine the maximum size of the transfer, add about 1” on all sides to define min-imum platen size of the press

b. Tomorrow’s needs - plan for future needs as well, since platen size is a permanent decision

c. Production ganging - does the customer’s production volume require “ganging” of products: a pro-cess whereby multiple products are transferred simultaneously (e.g. 6 coasters instead of 1)?

If so, simulate the surface space needed based on optimal configuration of the substrates before deciding on the press size (e.g. the SwingMan-25, even though more expensive in its purchase, may provide the quickest return on investment if justified by the increased volume capacity when ganging substrates).

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HEAT TRANSFER MACHINES – PRODUCT OVERVIEWHIX Clamshell presses can be divided up into 3 types

Digital manual presses:

Digital semi-automatic presses (with automatic-opening mechanism)

Digital automatic presses, operated with external air compressor (not included)

HT-400 HT-600

S-450 S-650

N-680 N-880

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Each type is available in following sizes

15 x 15” platen size• HT-400,

• S-450,

• N-680

16 x 20” platen size• HT-600,

• S-650,

• N-88020"

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HIX Swing-away presses can be divided up into 3 types

Analog manual economy presses:

Digital manual heavy-duty presses (with automatic-opening mechanism)

Digital manual Twin-platen presses

HL-912: Hobby Lite SwingMan-15 SwingMan-20E

SwingMan-20 SwingMan-25

SwingMan-20 Twin SwingMan-25 Twin

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Each type is available in following sizes

9 x 12” platen size• HL-912

Hobby Lite

15 x 15” platen size• SwingMan-15,

16 x 20” platen size• SwingMan-20E

• SwingMan-20

• SwingMan-20 Twin (2 lower platens 16 x 20”)

20 x 25” platen size• SwingMan-25

• SwingMan-25 Twin (2 lower platens 20 x 25”)

12"

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HIX Specialty presses can be divided up into 2 types, each with different size platen

Digital manual presses:

Digital automatic presses, operated with external air compressor (not included)

B-250 Cap Press(3” x 5 ½” platen standard plus 2 optional sizes)

FH-3000 Flathead Press(3 ¾” x 6” platen)

R2R Roll-to-Roll Care Label Press(4” x 4” platen)

LF-4464 Large Format Press(40 x 60” platen)


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HEAT TRANSFER MACHINES – CLAMSHELL PRESSES

Manual Clamshell Presses

HT-400: 15” x 15” Digital Manual Clamshell Press

• One of HIX’s longest and best-selling machines. For long, it sets the standard in the manual heat press industry because of its ruggedness, durability, and years of trouble free performance. Over 100,000 units have been sold throughout the world, more than any other HIX model.

• 15” x15” casted heat platen that can apply all types of transfers on substrates up to 1” thick.

• Heating element embedded within casting for perfect and even heat transfer;

• Easy-to-use open-and-close handle with spring assist and a full range pressure adjustment, adds 20% more pressure over straight handle designs.

• Floating lower platen helps provide even pressure on thicker items.

• Integrated touch-screen controller provides − easy user access to a menu of options, including − 4 programmable presets for easy toggling between various temp/time combi-nation settings (including two-step transfer setting)

− temperature readout (set and actual temperature up to 450°F /232°C), − time readout (set and actual count-down timer up to 99 minutes 99secs) − pressure readout (intensity value between 1-very light to 9-very strong)

• ETL certified.

• Limited 1-year warranty and a lifetime warranty on the heating element.

• Also available as 220V CE-certified or 220V non-CE model

• Also available with AS/NZS 3112 plug for Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Island customers;

• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 15 x 15” Pad protector − 15 x 15” PTFE protector sheet − Splitter stand − Universal stand − 13 x 13” replaceable platen − Specialty 4-way replaceable platen

Power On/Off

Flat Even-HeatPlaten

Open/CloseHandle

PressureAdjustmentKnob

Digital Touch Screen Controls

RubberCovered,FloatingLower Platen

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HT-600: 16” x 20” Digital Manual Clamshell Press

• 16” x20” casted heat platen that can apply all types of transfers on substrates up to ½” thick.





− temperature readout (set and actual temperature up to 450°F /232°C), − time readout (set and actual count-down timer up to 99 minutes 99secs), and − pressure readout (intensity value between 1-very light to 9-very strong)

• ETL certified.



• Also available with AS/NZS 3112 plug for Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Is- land customers;

• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 16 x 20” Pad protector − 16 x 20” PTFE protector sheet − Splitter stand − Universal stand − 13 x 13” replaceable platen − 15 x 15” replaceable platen − Specialty 4-way replaceable platen

Power On/Off


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Semi-Automatic Clamshell Presses S-450: 15” x 15” Auto-Open Digital Manual Clamshell Press

• 15” x15” casted heat platen that can apply all types of transfers on substrates up to 1” thick.


• The Auto-open mechanism combines the efficiency and speed of an air automatic heat transfer machine with the economy of a manual press, thereby greatly re-ducing operator fatigue. The proprietary mechanical latch system automatically opens the press - without the use of an air compressor - once the preset time has expired.

• Smooth progressive gas shock lift system;

• Quick release mechanism allows manual override of the auto-release function;

• Easy-to-use open-and-close handle with spring assist and a full range pressure adjustment, adds 20% more pressure over straight handle designs;




• ETL certified.



• Also available as 220V model with AS/NZS 3112 plug for Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Island customers;

• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 15 x 15” Pad protector − 15 x 15” PTFE protector sheet − Splitter stand − Universal stand − 13 x 13” replaceable platen − Specialty 4-way replaceable platen

Power On/Off

OverrideRelease

Open/CloseHandle




Auto-OpenMechanism


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S-650: 16” x 20” Auto-Open Digital Manual Clamshell Press

• 16” x20” casted heat platen that can apply all types of transfers on substrates up to ½” thick.


• The Auto-open mechanism combines the efficiency and speed of an air automatic heat transfer machine with the economy of a manual press, thereby greatly re-ducing operator fatigue. The proprietary mechanical latch system automatically opens the press - without the use of an air compressor - once the preset time has expired.





• ETL certified.




• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 16 x 20” Pad protector − 16 x 20” PTFE protector sheet − Splitter stand − Universal stand − 13 x 13” replaceable platen − 15 x 15” replaceable platen − Specialty 4-way replaceable plate

Power On/Off

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Automatic Clamshell Presses N-680: 15” x 15”” Air-Automatic Digital Clamshell Press

• Air-compressor operated;

• 15” x15” casted heat platen that can apply all types of transfers on substrates up to ¾” thick (up to 1/8” thick when installed with Shuttle Accessory);


• Transfer cycle is initiated by lowering the upper platen to near-closure, at which time a micro switch will trigger platen closure, compression, and opening of the press.

• Automatic cycle greatly reduces operator fatigue, even in long production runs.

• Built with a long lasting pneumatic air cylinder lift system, large air valve for faster clamping, and bushings in key areas for durability.

• Suitable for extra high volume work in production shops.

• Easy-reach adjustable pressure gauge;

• Pre-press button for quick release and cycle override (allows for quick pre-ironing of a shirt without changing the machine’s transfer settings);



• ETL certified.



• Also available as 220V model with AS/NZS 3112 plug for Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Island customers

• Air compressor not included (for requirements, please see below;

• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 15 x 15” Pad protector − 15 x 15” PTFE protector sheet − Universal stand with adapter bracket − Shuttle mechanism modifies press into dual-lower platen press − External air filter

Pre-PressRelease Button

Power On/Off

Air PressureReadout


Closing Handle


Air Inlet

Air PressureRegulator


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SN-880: 16” x 20” Air-Automatic Digital Clamshell Press

• Air-compressor operated;

• 16” x20” casted heat platen that can apply all types of transfers on substrates up to ¾” thick (up to 1/8” thick when installed with Shuttle Accessory);


• Transfer cycle is initiated by lowering the upper platen to near-closure, at which time a micro switch will trigger platen closure, compression, and opening of the press.

• Automatic cycle greatly reduces operator fatigue, even in long production runs.

• Built with a long lasting pneumatic air cylinder lift system, large air valve for faster clamping, and bushings in key areas for durability.

• Suitable for extra high volume work in production shops.

• Easy-reach adjustable pressure gauge;

• Pre-press button for quick release and cycle override (allows for quick pre-ironing of a shirt without changing the machine’s transfer settings);



• ETL certified.




• Air compressor not included (for requirements, please see below;

• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 16 x 20” Pad protector − 16 x 20” PTFE protector sheet − Universal stand with adapter bracket − Shuttle mechanism modifies press into dual-lower platen press − External air filter

Air Compressor Requirements for N-680 And N-880:

• Clean (void of oils) and dry (void of water) air source of 100-125 P.S.I. (6.8-8.5 bar)

• 1 ½ to 2 CFM airflow;

• External air filter and water trap strongly recommended (note: damage to the machine’s internal air operated components can occur , not be covered by warranty if affected by humidity)

Pre-PressRelease Button

Power On/Off

Air PressureReadout


Closing Handle

Rubber Covered,Floating Lower Platen

Air Inlet




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HEAT TRANSFER MACHINES – SWING-AWAY PRESSES

Manual Analog Swing-Away Presses

HL-912: 9” x 12” Analog Manual Swing-Away Press

• Affordable heat transfer machine for the hobbyist, artist, school, or home user which will apply any type of transfer

• Small, lightweight and easily portable at 23 lbs.

• 9”x12” tooled heat platen that swings out counter-clockwise;

• Features a full pressure control allowing transfer onto substrates up to 1 ½” thick,

• Full range analog temperature control knob (Off to 400°F)

• Heat indicating light (on when heating up, off after reaching set temperature)

• ETL certified

• Easy to use pressure lever,

• Separate digital timer included

• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 4 x 12”” PTFE protector sheet

Open/CloseHandle


Heat IndicatingLight


Thermostat(Off-400°F)


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SwingMan-20E: 16” x 20” Analog Manual Swing-Away Press

• 16” x20” casted heat platen that swings out counter-clockwise;

• Features a full pressure control allowing transfer onto substrates up to 1 ¾”thick,



• Easy-to-use pressure lever,


• Also available as 220V non-CE model

• Available accessories (see page XXXX ): − 16" x 20” Pad protector − 16" x 20” PTFE protector sheet

SwingMan-15: 15” x 15” Analog Manual Swing-Away Press



• Relatively lightweight and portable at 57 lbs.



• Easy-to-use pressure lever,




• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 15 x 15”” Pad protector − 15 x 15”” PTFE protector sheet

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Knob


Rubber Covered,Floating Lower Platen



Open/CloseHandle

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Manual Digital Swing-Away Presses

• SwingMan-20: 16” x 20” Digital Manual Swing-Away Press




• Ergonomic side and upper handle for easy open/close and swing-away motion;

• Over-center lever provides easy lock down;

• Full range pressure adjustment;






• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 16 x 20” Pad protector − 16 x 20” PTFE protector sheet − Universal stand with adapter bracket

Power On/Off

Open/CloseHandle


PressureAdjustment Knob


Rubber Covered,Lower Platen


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SwingMan-25 Twin: 2 x 20” x 25” Dual-Lower Digital Manual Swing-Away Press


• 220V machine



• Ergonomic side and upper handle for easy open/close and swing-away motion;








Power On/Off

Open/CloseHandle

PressureAdjustment

Knob

Swing-awayBale Handle


Rubber Covered,Lower Platen Flat Even-HeatPlaten

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Dual-Lower Manual Digital Swing-Away Presses

SwingMan-20 Twin: 2 x 16” x 20” Dual-Lower Digital Manual Swing-Away Press

• 16” x20” casted heat platen that swings left and right above stationary lower plat-ens;



• Extended upper handle for greater downward leverage;








• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − 16 x 20” Pad protector − 16 x 20” PTFE protector sheet


Power On/Off

Open/CloseHandle




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ESSwingMan-25 Twin: 2 x 20” x 25” Digital Manual Swing-Away Press

• 20 x 25” casted heat platen that swings left and right above stationary lower platens;

• 220V machine



• Extended upper handle for greater downward leverage;




− temperature readout (set and actual temperature up to 450°F /232°C), − time readout (set and actual count-down timer up to 99 mins 99secs), and − pressure readout (intensity value between 1-very light to 9-very strong)




Power On/Off

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HEAT TRANSFER MACHINES – SPECIALTY PRESSES

B-250: Manual Digital Clamshell Cap Press

• 3” x 5 ½” standard Golf cap platen

• Substrates include caps but also small pockets, shirt necks and sleeves, care labels, any small hard-to-isolate surfaces

• Hold-down bracket with PTFE sheet, providing stability to the transfer prior to clos-ing;

• Easy-to-use open-and-close handle with spring assist and a full range pressure adjustment,






• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − Ball cap plate 3 ¾” x 5 7/8” − Youth cap platen 2 ¾” x 5 ¼”

Open/CloseHandle

Even-HeatPlaten

Power On/Off

InterchangeableCap Platen


Bottom CapHold-down

DTG Mart - MarketingHighlight

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FH-3000: Manual Digital Flathead Press

• 3 ¾ ” x 6” standard platen

• Substrates include caps but also small pockets, shirt necks and sleeves, care labels, any small hard-to-isolate surfaces

• Easy-to-use open-and-close handle with spring assist and a full range pressure adjustment,






• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − Replacement hold-down bracket with PTFE sheet − Cube attachment

Open/CloseHandle


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Power On/Off

Tool-less Interchangeable

Lower Platen

Multicolor Index Label Reader


Optical Two-handed Control Switches

Tool-less Web Adjustment

Core-less Take Up Reel

Emergency Stop


Auto/Manual Jog Switch

Air PressureReadout

R2R: Roll-to-Roll Digital Automatic Care-Label Press

• Substrates include care labels but also shirt necks and sleeves, pockets, etc. (any small transfer application with large quantity demand)

• 4 x 4” standard platen

• 3 ¾ x 3 ¾” effective transfer size

• 8” diameter maximum label roll capacity

• Over/under multi-color index reader for opaque (paper) carrier film

• Optional reader for transparent carrier film

• Safe 2-handed control switch and emergency stop function

• Auto/manual operation selection

• Override jog button





• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − Tape sensor (index reader) for clear film

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ESLF-4464: Large Format Press

• Transfers on textile and non-textile substrates: overall textile printing, aluminum plates (up to 40 x 60”), wooden table tops and other substrates up to 5” thick.

• Edge-to-edge heating element technology combined with even pressure over the entire surface provide transfer surface up to the very edges of the platen

• 360 degree access to lower platen, allowing for overhanging blow-out sheets or substrates to be safely tucked away

• Dual platen option allows simultaneous preparation of substrates while working independently on both platens

• High-efficiency heat insulation for safety and reduced energy consumption

• Available in Solo or Twin model (single or double lower platen)

• Easy toggle between center-only (for smaller jobs) and overall compression setting (for full-platen size jobs)

• “Maintenance” setting for easier access to heating platen

• Available accessories (see page 33-34): − Second lower platen to retrofit Solo model into Twin − Templates for “ganging” of non-textile substrates (coming soon)

Digital Control Panel

Removable Lower Rubber Pad

Height Adjustable Lower Platen

Leg Levelers

Main Power Switch


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HEAT TRANSFER MACHINES – ACCESSORIES

SHUTTLE

• For use with the air automatic N-680 or N-880 heat transfer machines.

• Significantly increases the production output by provid-ing two work stations.

• Allows operator to layout the next product while previ-ous one is still transferring.

• Easily mounts onto machine using pre-drilled holes

• Shuttle kit includes additional lower platen

• Shuttle reduces platen clearance to 1/8” sufficient for all fabrics or aluminum plates.

PAD PROTECTORS

• Protects and extends life of silicone pad

• Eliminates ink residue from transfers to stick to silicone

• Faster load and unload of garments.

• Especially practical in conjunction with split adapter and with universal stand

• Allows smooth movement of garment for positioning of substrate and transfer.

• Provides a non-sticking, easily cleaned work surface

• Available in sizes 15 x 15”, 16 x 20” and 20 x 25”

PTFE SHEETS

• Eliminates scorching on products.

• Keeps transfers from sticking.

• Minimizes ink and dust from transfers and garments.

• Allows user to gang multiple transfers.

• Prevents dyes in colored garments from staining the heat platen.

• Sizes: 15” x 15” and 16” x 20”.

SHIRT SPLITTER STAND

• Stand is built in a cantilever profile, providing the trans-fer machine with the capability to press only one side of a shirt while its other side hangs safely underneath the lower platen.

• Especially handy for situations whereby several panels of the same shirt need to be printed separately;

• Also works well for garments which, because of pock-ets, zippers or other assemblies, cannot provide a flat surface when laying fully onto the lower platen;

• Ideal for use with sublimation applications, prohibiting the dye to migrate to other parts of the garment or to the shirt’s back;

• Can be ordered at the time of transfer machine pur-chase or separately to retrofit existing equipment;

• Fits only the HT400/600, S450/650 models built after 2001, and equipped with a folded sheet metal base.

SPECIALTY REPLACEMENT PLATEN

• Allows for easy printing on a variety of smaller subjects such as head bands, shoes, socks, umbrellas, wrist bands, etc.

• Allows for printing on small or irregular surfaces when the size of the standard lower platen does not accom-modate properly for the job: i.e. to print on parts of the garment such as pockets or sleeves (especially when shirt buttons, zippers, snaps, seems or other shirt con-structions are in the way).

• Provides much greater versatility to existing press.

• Easy “up-sale” accessory, adding to the functionality of the customer’s new equipment.

• Consists of 4 smaller-shaped mini-platens built as part of one lower platen assembly

• Multi-directional: i.e. can be installed in a North-South or a South-North direction depending which size of mini-platen the customer wishes to work on.

• Overall platen size is 15 x 15”. The 4 mini-platens, in pairs, measure 4 x 5” and 3 x 3”.

• Easy swapping with the standard platen (removable with two bolts holding the lower platen.

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CAP PLATENS

• For use with the B-250 cap presses.

• Proper sizes for caps to rest on so there is no stretching or wrinkling.

• Sizes − Youth 2-3/4” x 5-1/4” − Golf (comes standard with press) 3” x 5-1/2” − Ball 3-3/4” x 5-7/8”

PTFE COATED BLANKET CAP ATTACHMENT

• Keeps transfers from sticking.

• Helps hold transfers, letters, or numbers onto caps before transferring.

• Eliminates scorching on products.

• Prevents dyes in colored hats from staining the heat platen.

CUBE ATTACHMENT

• For use with the FH-3000 press.

• 3-1/2” x 3-1/2” maximum cube area.

• Easily interchangeable.

WATER SEPARATION TRAP

• For use with the air automatic N-680D or N-880D heat transfer machines.

• Filters the air and keeps water from entering the machine.

• Helps prolong the life of the machine.


EQUIPMENTPARTS &SERVICE

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Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: Can I transfer onto a 5 Panel Cap?

A: Yes – the front of the 5 Panel Cap has no seam running down the middle; therefore, you can easily transfer onto the cap front.

TIP: Keep all transfers 3/8” away from seams.

Q: Can I transfer onto a 6 Panel Cap?

A: Yes – but because of the seam running down center of front of cap, you will need to separate your transfer or flock design to avoid trying to transfer into the seam. Remember that separation must be 3/8” away from seam (both sides of seam).

Q: Are the lower platens interchangeable?

A: Yes, there are three different sizes available – Youth Cap, Golf Cap, and Ball Cap. The Youth Cap platen measures 2 ¾” x 5 ¼”; the Golf Cap platen measures 3” x 5 ½”, and the Ball Cap platen measures 3 ¾” x 5 7/8”. The B-250 transfer machine comes standard with the golf platen, which can be replaced with any of the other two sizes at the time of purchase.

Q: What is the PTFE Blanket used for?

A: It helps prevent movement of your transfer while lowering the heat head. It also helps prevent scorching of the nylon and poly fibers and sticking of the transfer to the platen. If applying adhesive-backed patches, it keeps the adhesive from oozing out and onto the heat head. It also helps keep the edges from curling up after the heat head is raised and the adhesive is cooling.

Q: How do you adjust the pressure? Where is the pressure adjustment located?

A: A small “thumb” type adjustment control is located on the back of the cap stem. Turning the wheel lowers and raises the cap (decreasing and increasing pressure).

Q: How much pressure do I need?

A: Time, temperature, and pressure for transfers vary, depending on the transfer you are using. Please follow the direc-tions provided by your heat transfer/heat transfer paper manufacturer for specific instructions.

TIP: Always experiment when using a new supply of caps or transfers to get the best results.

Q: How do I load a hat in my press?

A: Place the back of the cap under the spring-tensioned hold down, pull the inside liner (also known as the linger or sweat band) out against the bill of the hat, slide the cap over the lower platen, and pull to snug on the platen.

TIP: Make sure the bill of the cap and cord is clear of the platens.

Q: Can you do sleeves and pockets using the Cap Press? What else?

A: Although the Cap Press is designed primarily for caps, it can do sleeves and pockets, as well as visors, socks and under garments. The FH-3000, which is a 3-3/4” x 6” flat press, is perfect for the other small items beyond hats. Both presses are also good for the application of care labels, small logos on pockets or neck.

HIX HT-400/600 and S-450/650 HEAT PRESSES

Q: Do I have the correct pressure?

A: Always refer to the transfer or transfer paper manufacturer’s recommendations. Light, medium and heavy pressure can be adjusted by turning the pressure adjustment knob on the back of the machine. The digital pressure readout is a number from 1 to 9 (9 being the highest pressure).

TIP: You can use the dollar bill test or use an old T-shirt and one transfer cut into strips to test various pressure settings to determine which pressure setting works best for your transfer application. Place a dollar bill partly on the lower platen, close the press, and try to pull away the bill. If it can be removed easily, the pressure setting is low. If it is impossible to remove, the setting is high. Progressive resistance refers to increasing pressure.

Q: Why does the lower platen move/pivot?

A: These machines come with what’s referred to as “floating lower platens.” The purpose of the floating lower platen is to adjust to different thicknesses of substrates by perfectly aligning the upper and lower platen and create even pressure across the surface of the substrate.

Q: How many transfers can I do in an hour?

A: It will vary, depending on the operator, the substrate, and the dwell time recommended by the heat transfer/paper manufacturer.

EXAMPLE: 10 seconds load time + 10 seconds dwell time + 10 second unload time = 30 seconds [or 2 cycles/min] x 60 [minutes in hour] = 120 transfers per hour.

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Q: How much pressure will they create?

A: There is lot of confusion in the industry over the concept of pressure needed to successfully complete a transfer. Transfer manufacturers may call for “high pressure,” “medium pressure,” “60psi,” etc. Most of these requirements refer to pneumatic pressure provided by an air compressor. It is also different from the press’ total clamping pressure (the manual operator force or pneumatic force leveraged by the clamping construction of the press).

For the 400/450/600 and 650 models, average operator clamping pressure can be estimated at about 20 lbs. of locking pressure. Because of the machine’s constructional leverage mechanism, this translates into a total platen clamping force of 600 lbs. Corrected for the number of square inches of the lower platen (225 for the 400/450, 320 for the 600/650), this translates into a working-surface pressure of ~ two pounds per square inch (psi) for the 600 & 650 models and ~ three psi for the 400 & 450 models. This is sufficient for most if not all commercial transfers on the market.

See page 41 For a list of pressure estimates on HIX machine models

Q: Can I damage my press?

A: Yes, common ways the machines are damaged are by not performing proper maintenance (see owner’s manual), applying too much pressure, or misusing the machine. Each machine is built for an intended use and a related pro-duction level. Exceeding that suggested level of usage will reduce the expected lifetime of the press and accelerate the mechanical wear-and-tear.

Q: How thick of a substrate can I do?

A: The HT-400 and S-450 will accommodate substrates up to 1 inch thick. The HT-600 and S-650 will accommodate substrates up to 1/2 inch thick.

Q: How much time can I set it for?

A: The digital timer can be set up to 99 minutes, 59 seconds. The preset function on the touch-screen timer allows for preset times of multiple jobs, allowing the operator to simply toggle between preset jobs, each with a linked time and temperature setting. The touch-screen controller also has a dual-time setting where a 2-step job can be programmed, each with a different time setting (e.g. vinyl transfers or pre-press jobs whereby, in a first step, the substrate is pressed for just one or two seconds, then in a second step get properly transferred).

Q: Can it do ceramic type plates?

A: Yes, to transfer onto plates you will need to have a “plate puck” (a high temp silicone pad cut to shape of plate-trans-fer area). We can make these in 1/4”, 3/8” and 1/2”. We will need a template from the customer before we can provide a quote. You will need to make sure the thickness of the plate (highest area on plate, usually the lip) fits within the maximum thickness of the machine (HT-400 and S-450 max 1 inch, HT-600 S-650 max 1/2 inch thick). The plate puck fits inside the curve of the plate over the transfer. The plate puck should be slightly thicker than the recess of the plate. You may need two pucks in some cases.

NOTE: For these type of non-textile jobs, always use a pad protector to protect the machine’s silicone pad as well as a PTFE transfer sheet to protect the upper heat casting during transfer.

HIX N-680 & N-880 AIR OPERATED HEAT PRESSES

Q: What is the glass-like bulb to which the airline is attached?

A: This is called the water trap also called the ¼” NPT Air Filter Bowl.

Q: Do I need a water trap? Why?

A: Definitely. When compressed, the air also compresses humidity into moisture droplets. Compressed air may also contain dirt particles from the compressor components. When the moisture and dirt are kept out of the internal com-ponents (vales and gauges), the machine will last longer.

Q: Is a gas spring in the machine?

A: No. The N-680 and N-880 have an air cylinder to provide the automatic lift, which lasts longer and is recommended for high volume users.

Q: How thick is the substrate this machine can transfer on?

A: On air-operated machines, we recommend substrates no more than ¾- inch.

NOTE: Air automatic machines can be retrofitted with a Shuttle Attachment (see accessories). When using a Shuttle At-tachment on the N-680 or N-880, the attachment reduces this substrate allowance to just 1/8” and should therefore be considered only for textile applications.

Q: Why would I need an air-automatic heat press?

A: The N-680 and N-880 air-automatic machines have an easy one-step pressure setting. Dial in the pressure setting on the gauge once and for all, then never touch the settings again during the entire job. It will adjust itself to what- ever thickness of the substrate. Manual machines need to have the pressure adjusted for each substrate with a dif-ferent thickness. Air-automatic transfer machines are also great in high volume shops because they reduce operator fatigue by closing easily and opening automatically, even when the operator is not present.

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Q: What type and size of air compressor do I need?

A: At a minimum, you will need a 1 HP Air Compressor with a 3-gallon tank capacity providing about 100-125 psi of clean air (void of water and oil) at 1 ½ to 2 CFM. Hook it up to the ¼” NPT air inlet on the machine.

NOTE: If you undersize your air compressor, it will run continuously and burn out.

Q: Where do I get air fittings?

A: Air fittings can be found at your local auto parts or hardware store or can be ordered directly from HIX Corporation.

Q: How many presses can I run off one compressor?

A: Using the recommended 1 HP/3 gallon tank, you can operate a maximum of two machines. Each machine requires at least 100 psi to work properly.

Q: How long/big should my airline be?

A: The air line should be 3/8” in diameter and no more than 25 feet long.

Q: How fast is the clamping pressure reached?

A: The N-680 and N-880 reach their clamping pressure in about 3 seconds.

Q: Can one person operate two machines?

A: Yes. While one machine is transferring, the operator can be loading/unloading the other machine.

TIP: This works best for transfers which require dwell times of 10 seconds or more.

Q: What is Fully Automatic vs. Air-Automatic?

A: Fully Automatic – the operator loads the lower platen with the substrate, pushes start buttons and the press cycles automatically to the pressure step – when the process is complete the head rises automatically and the operator peels the transfer, unloads and starts the process again.

Air-Automatic – the compression and opening part of the cycle is handled by compressed air. Initiating the cycle (such as by lowering the handle) may have to be done manually.

Q: Which machine should I buy?

A: The N-680 and N-880 are best suited in a high-production environment. It is also used in places with less experi-enced personnel, as well as for people looking for easy-to-operate equipment. The N-880 is built both in a 120V and a 220V version. The 220V version is used for high-production units where quick heat recovery between cycles is key.

Q: What is the pre-press button on the N-680/880 machines for?

A: The pre-press button is to pre-heat the substrate, to warm the pad on the lower platen, to press wrinkles from sub-strates being transferred, and to stop the machine in mid cycle without having to turn off the machine completely.

HIX SWING-AWAY HEAT PRESSES

Q: What is better, a Swing-away or Clamshell press?

A: For shirts/garments that are flat and flexible (mouse pads), clamshell presses are best. They require less counter space, less manpower movement (straight down, straight up), and are therefore the fastest of the manual presses. Swing-away’s can be used in more applications beyond these listed above. They can handle thicker, rigid substrates like tiles, plastic, metal, glass, and plaques, allowing the customer to press down vertically onto the work surface. Swing-away’s are not as well suited for high production garment because they take 10 – 15% longer to swing the head away and back.

Q: Are Swing-away’s are best for lettering and numbers?

A: The Swing-away press swings totally away from the lower platen, allowing for precise layout of letters/numbers ap-pliqués, rhinestones, and more as they allow the operator to press down vertically onto the work surface.

Q: Why are Swing-away’s better for rigid substrates?

A: Normally, Swing-away presses close vertically whereas Clamshell presses close with a pinching movement, hitting the back of the lower platen before touching the front. HIX has overcome this disadvantage by creating the “floating lower” platen. With a floating (or self-adjusting) lower, the platen adjusts itself by pivoting the lower platen to align evenly with the upper platen.

Q: Can I gang tiles?

A: Yes. Tile designs can be laid out up to one inch of the platen size of the press. Our 20” x 25” models will take a 3 wide x 4 deep 6”x6” tile and press all at once.

Q: What is the reason for a Swing-away Twin press?

A: Our 16×20 and 20×25 Swing-away presses come in “Twin” models. These presses speed up production by allowing the operator to layout the design on one side while the other side is pressing. When done, the operator opens the press and swings the heated platen over the second lower to press a design while preparing a design on the now available lower platen.

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HIX HEAT PRESS ACCESSORIES

Q: How does the Manual Shuttle Attachment work? Which machines does it work on?

A: The Shuttle Attachment attaches to existing N-680 & N-880 machines. The Shuttle allows operator to lay out the next substrate while the current layout is being pressed. When the first substrate is done, the user slides the shuttle and begins the transferring process for the prepared substrate. This process is continued until the user is ready to stop! A side benefit is the operator can work outside of heat area, thereby remaining cool.

Q: How do I increase my production?

A: A: The Shuttle Attachment is one way to increase your production. It offers two workstations using one machine. (The Shuttle Attachment can be used on only the N-680/880 Machines.)

Q: What is the PTFE Sheet and Pad Protector used for?

A: The PTFE sheet is used as a barrier between the garment and heat platen. The PTFE sheet helps protect your gar-ment from scorching and protects your heat platen from inks and residues that can transfer to your garment later if the sheet is not used. The Pad Protector is used to protect the pad on the lower platen from transfer bleed-through, oils, dust, and dirt. It also aids in sliding garments on and off the lower platen easily.

GENERAL QUESTION

Q: How do I clean the press?

A: If your heat casting is Aluminum (not coated) you can use soap and water with steel wool, brillo or scrubb- type pads. Sandpaper (400 grit) has also been found effective. Never use Oven Cleaner on Aluminum castings – this seems to etch the aluminum and is difficult to remove.

Q: How/What maintenance do I need to do?

A: Lubricate the joints of moving parts (pins etc.) on a regular basis. (Check Owner’s Manual or every 2,000 cycles or six months) Use a Pad Protector, and replace parts that will wear out over time (e.g. thermostats, timers, thermometers and pad) as needed.

Q: What is the black “gunk” or residue around my heat shield?

A: Moisture, Sizing and Plastisol inks evaporate and gather under the heat shield and after time may build up and come out of the heat head.

Q: If you experience an unmanageable amount of residue you may need to remove the heat head and heat shield for thorough cleaning. Please contact HIX Corporation’s Customer Service Department before disassembling machine.

Q: What does it cost to operate my HIX heat press 9 hours/day

A: For a HIX 120 volt machine with a 16”x20” heat platen set on 380°F at 10¢/KWH

GARMENTS PRESSED COST/DAY

Machine on only (0 transfers applied) 20¢/day

50 24¢/day

100 28¢/day

500 63¢/day

Machines with Teflon coated platens use ~ 4X more electricity.

A 120v machine with a Teflon coated 16”x20” heat platen set on 380°F at 10¢/KWH:

GARMENTS PRESSED COST/DAY

Machine on only (0 transfers applied) 71¢/day

50 88¢/day

100 $1.04/day

500 $2.24/day

Our 15”x15” heat press uses 20-37% less than our 16”x20” press

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Q: My transfer won’t work. Is it the machine or transfer?

A: When you fail to make a successful transfer you can wonder, “Is it the machine’s fault, or the transfer, wrong settings or what"?

FIRST, THE BASICS:

First, be sure to set the heat transfer machine to the transfer manufacturer’s recommended Temperature, Time and Pressure settings. If you don’t have these specifications, contact your transfer supplier for this information and any other special application instructions as many of the new “High Tech” transfers require significantly different settings and/or application techniques than those from years past.

When you start up your press for the first time each day, preheat the pad for a minute. If the press has sat for 3-5 min-utes without use, be sure to “preheat” the pad for 10-15 seconds before loading the shirt or making the first transfer.

After the shirt is positioned and centered on the preheated pad, “pre-press” the shirt for 3 seconds to take the wrin-kles out and more importantly, release any excess moisture out of the T-shirt fabric which can reduce the chance of a successful transfer.

With all of the above recommendations, try making a transfer.

If successful, great! You are on your way to making some serious money with your transfer machine!

If you have an area that isn’t transferring completely or as you would like it to, follow these steps to determine the problem.

Try increasing the pressure on the machine by 10-20%

Recheck your temperature required and the press readout. You may want to increase the temperature 10 degrees. Try increasing the application time by 2-4 seconds

If after trying these things there is still a “specific” area (say over in one corner of the transfer) that isn’t coming out as you would like it to, then try the same type transfer on a scrap shirt but rotate the transfer 180 degrees (changing the failure location) If after doing this the problem area is in the same physical location on the machine, then you probably have a problem with the pad or possibly a warped platen if the machine has ever overheated severely. On the other hand if the transfer failed in the same area on the transfer (after changing the location of where the prob-lem had previously been occurring), then you most likely have a problem with the transfer or its application settings (Temperature, Time or Pressure) and you should contact your transfer supplier to discuss the problem.

Following these basic guidelines can help you be more successful with each and every transfer!

FANS ARE A BIG PROBLEMA fan blowing on operator and even a little corner of press will give you failures.


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PRESSURE

HEAT TRANSFER MACHINE PRESSUREWhen using an air operated heat press, a psi setting of about 40 is sufficient for products requiring medium pressure. A setting of about 60-70 psi will work for heavy to extra heavy pressure.

These pressure ratings indicate the amount of air pressure per square inch measured at the pressure valve. They do not refer to the amount of total force being applied against the platen nor to the pounds per square inch on the lower platen (on the substrate).

With manual heat presses, there is a need to have some reference as to how much pressure to use when adjusting the press. In the absence of an air compressor and a pressure gauge, and to fill this void, the market often refers to 40/60/70 psi, referring to the psi equivalent on an air automatic press.

In reality, transferring does not require anywhere near 40psi of pressure. What is needed is solid, even pressure distrib-uted over the entire surface of the heat platen. Even pressure is a vital requirement of a successful transfer.

In addition, some popular types of transfers, such as plastisol, hot split, puff, and cold peel, may require different pressure to successfully print.

Ultimately, what is the actual amount of pressure realistically actually applied onto the lower platen (the work surface)? The average is 3-5 pounds per square inch with a downward force of about half a ton.

Below is a table showing the actual pressures applied onto the handle, the total clamping pressure and leveraged by the machine’s clamping mechanism, and the resulting “on the platen” pressure.

HIX Heat Transfer Machine Pressure Chart

Model Applied pressure(in)

Total clamping pressure

(in)

Pad surface(in sq. inches)

Unit Pressure on the surface

(in psi)

B-250 and FH-3000 at 10 handle locking pressure 125 25 5.0

HT-400/ S-450 at 20 handle locking pressure 600 225 2.7

HT-600/ S-650 at 20 handle locking pressure 600 320 1.9

N-680 at 80 psi air pressure 2300 225 10.2

N-880 at 80 psi air pressure 2300 320 7.2

Hobby Lite at 10 handle locking pressure 500 108 4.6

Swingman-15 at 20 handle locking pressure 900 225 4.0

Swingman-20, 20E & 20 Twin at 20 handle locking pressure 1100 320 3.4

Swingman 25 & 25 Twin at 20 handle locking pressure 1100 500 2.2

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HEAT TRANSFER MACHINE LIFE EXPECTANCY

The following is an indication of the life expectancy of a HIX machine. These figures are the result of in-house cycle testing on each of these machines. Field applications vary significantly so life expectancy also varies. There is no applied warranty in the publishing of this data.

Just like the warranty on a

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