Polyester Mesh
Polyester Mesh
Polyester mesh consists of 100 percent polyester. This material makes the fabric soft, but strong enough to tolerate chemicals with high acid content, moisture, and even abrasion. For these reasons, polyester mesh became the ultimate choice for screen printers ever since the fabric is introduced in the market almost four decades ago.
What sets apart polyester mesh from its predecessor (silk) is its incredible strength. This fabric can withstand solvents under room temperature. At the same time, it remains intact and even when attacked by alkalies and weak acids under hot temperature. However, the weakness of the polyester mesh lies in strong alkalies (substances which contain hydroxyl ions and with a pH of more than seven). Another thing, prolonged exposure of the fabric to ultraviolet rays makes the fabric lose its tensility. Nevertheless, polyester mesh regains its dimensions when exposed to gamma rays. Polyester mesh melts under 260°C and softens under 240°C.
Screen printing industry basically uses three polyester types. First is the monofilament which is single-stranded and is distinguished by its elastic property. The other types are called low-elongation and multifilament. Both almost have the same properties and are durable enough to handle tension pressure. They are commonly used for mass productions.
The process of screen printing requires degreasing of this fabric by using abrasive degreasers (used with new mesh) and non-abrasive degreasers (used between coatings). This process eliminates fish eyes and pin holes in the fabric's coating. If the eyes and holes are not completely removed, they may contribute to the breakdown of emulsion.
Polyester Mesh