FAQ
- What is an Extreme Digital Color Imaging System?
- ChromaBlast™ is a unique patented ink and media combination driven by powerful print software to create the best cotton imaging system available. As heat and pressure is applied to the cotton, a chemical cross-link with cotton occurs. The result is a customized cotton shirt with soft hand, vibrant color and superior washability.
- How does it work?
- The ChromaBlast system is currently configured for three printer models: the Epson C88, R1800, and 4800. It runs from a standard PC and utilizes off-the-shelf graphics software to create instant personalized images. In a simple three-step process, the ChromaBlast system involves designing and customizing your image on your computer, printing through the ChromaBlast driver and adjusting color as needed onto the ChromaBlast media, and finally, cross-linking the image to the cotton through the use of a heat press.
- What is the cost?
- The cost per image ranges from around $2.00 to $2.50 for an 8" x 10" image. Remember: this is a digital imaging system. This estimated image cost includes the ChromaBlast media and the ChromaBlast ink. The ChromaBlast software driver is included with the system.
- What type of heat press is required?
- For optimum color and wash fastness, Pocono Mt. Screen Supply recommends a pneumatic heat press application at 350°F (176°C) for 45-60 seconds / 60 psi.
- Due to variations in cotton garments and in heat presses, time and temperature can be adjusted for preferred performance up to 400°F for 25 seconds. Some scorching may occur, but will wash out.
- What is so unique about ChromaBlast?
- The key to the ChromaBlast Digital Color Imaging System is the chemical bonding between the ink and the coating on the media. Where the ink chemistry and the media coating chemistry touch, there is a cross-link reaction under heat and pressure that chemically bonds the image to the cotton. The cross-link creates a very strong and nearly permanent bond. Remove the paper and the image area is tattooed into the shirt itself. The overprint area from the media does physically transfer, but washes away because it has no ink to react to in the non-image area. The area around the image has a very light feel that becomes nearly imperceptible after one wash.
- The final result is a vibrant, colorful image on the t-shirt that looks, feels and breathes like nothing else on the market. Imagine the ability to print what you want, when you want it. Now imagine all of this from the digital desktop printing system that uses environmentally friendly inks and can be operated right in your office by your graphic design or marketing staff.
