1. What is Silk Screen Exposure Time?

The silk screen exposure time is the duration required to properly expose a photo emulsion-coated screen to UV light. This calculation helps determine the optimal exposure time based on your mesh count compared to a standard mesh count.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the exposure time formula:

Where:

• \( Base\ Time \) — Known exposure time for standard mesh (minutes)
• \( Mesh\ Count \) — Thread count of your screen (threads per inch)
• \( Standard\ Mesh \) — Thread count the base time was calculated for (threads per inch)

Explanation: The equation adjusts the base exposure time proportionally based on the difference between your mesh count and the standard mesh count.

3. Importance of Correct Exposure Time

Details: Proper exposure time is crucial for achieving sharp image reproduction. Underexposure leads to weak stencils, while overexposure can cause loss of fine details.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the base exposure time (for your standard mesh), your actual mesh count, and the standard mesh count. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical base time to start with?
A: For a 230 mesh screen, common base times range from 2-5 minutes depending on emulsion type and light source.

Q2: How does mesh count affect exposure time?
A: Higher mesh counts require less exposure time as they allow less UV light to pass through.

Q3: Should I adjust for different emulsion types?
A: Yes, this calculator provides a starting point. Always conduct exposure tests with your specific emulsion and setup.

Q4: What about different light sources?
A: The base time should be established for your specific light source (LED, metal halide, fluorescent, etc.).

Q5: How precise does this calculation need to be?
A: Screen printing often requires experimentation, but this provides a good starting point for exposure tests.