how to make sublimation coating for stainless steel ?

A sublimation process for stainless steel is complex, requiring special materials and equipment. Sublimation occurs when a solid substance, in this case a coating, is transformed into a pure gas without having to pass through a phase of liquid. When it cools down and solidifies, the gas will bond with the stainless steel. The following is a simplified summary of how the process works:

Material and equipment needed:

1. Stainless Steel Substrate (e.g. stainless steel plates, mugs, or any other item).
2. Sublimation dye
3. Heat-resistant Tape
4. Sublimation printer
5. Heat press machine
6. Sublimation papers
7. Sublimation coat solution (commercially obtainable)
8. Spray guns or airbrushes
9. Protective gear (gloves, goggles, mask)
10. Ventilation system (if working indoors)

Steps on How to Create a Coating of Sublimation on Stainless Steel :

1. Prepare Workspace

   • Be sure to work in an air-conditioned area.
   • Protect yourself by wearing protective gear.

2. Clean Stainless Steel Stainless Steel:

   • Use a mild detergent and water to thoroughly clean the stainless-steel substrate. Clean the stainless steel substrate with mild detergent and clean water. Rinse it off using distilled water. Be sure to let it completely dry out before you proceed.

3. Applying Sublimation:

   • It is important to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer when mixing the sublimation solution. It is usually necessary to dilute the solution with a small amount of water.
   • Spray gun or an airbrush are the best tools to evenly apply sublimation coating on stainless steel surfaces. Use multiple thin coatings to achieve better results than a single heavy coat.
   • Allow the coatings to dry completely. This can take a few hours or, as the manufacturer specifies, several.

4. Print Your Designs:

   • You can design your artwork in a computer program and then print the file onto sublimation media using sublimation printers and sublimation pens. Make sure your design is the same size and shape as the stainless steel.

5. Sublimation Preparation:

   • Heat-resistant tape is used to adhere the sublimation printed paper to the coated stainless steel substrate. Align it properly.

6. Sublimation Heat Press:

   • The recommended temperature to sublimate is typically between 380 and 400degF (or 193-204degC).
   • Put the coated stainless-steel with the sublimation sheet attached in the heat pressing machine.
   • The recommended time to apply pressure and heat is 60-90 seconds.
   • The heat will cause the sublimation on the paper to become a gas. This will then bond with the stainless-steel sublimation coating.

7. Cool, Remove and

   • After the heat-press cycle is completed, carefully remove stainless steel from heat press. Allow it to cool.

8. Inspect

   • Peel the paper off to reveal your stainless steel design.
   • Examine the quality. The image should be durable, vibrant and bright.

9. Final Touches

   • You can add a clear coat to increase the durability and protection of the design.

Be aware that the solutions used for sublimation can differ, so be sure to read the instructions carefully provided by the manufacturer. To achieve desired results, it may be necessary for you to practice and experiment.