Squeegees

SQUEEGEES
Among the tools used by the silkscreen industry, the squeegee is very important. The squeegee determines the effectiveness with which the ink is forced through the screen onto the surface to be printed. A squeegee is used in both hand and machine production.

Squeegees are made in a variety of different materials and are in a progression of hardnesses that suit the squeegee to the different silkscreen applications. Standard brand squeegees are available in any size up to a maximum length of eight feet. The blade is cut to size and sealed to the appropriate molding. A rigid coupling of molding and blade is essential for precision and control when printing. Standard Screen will also supply molding or blades separately.

SQUEEGEE BLADES
Standard Screen Supply Corporation has squeegee blades manufactured for it by a variety of sources. We import various grades of polyurethane blades from France, Germany, and England. All Standard squeegee blades are manufactured with consistent elasticity and hardness throughout their length.

The hardness of a squeegee blade is measured by a durometer reading:

50 to 60 Durometer indicates a soft squeegee

60 to 70 Durometer indicates a medium squeegee

70 to 80 Duromenter indicates a hard squeegee

Generally speaking, harder squeegee blades leave a thinner ink deposit and softer squeegees leave more ink on the surface.

Polyurethane Squeegee Blades
Squeegee blades of plastic, technically known as polyurethane, are replacing rubber ones in areas of printing where solvent resistance and long runs are of primary importance. They are also sharper and recommended for machine printing.

Color: Translucent or colored to indicate the manufacturer or hardness

Size: 3/8" x 2"

Hardness: 50 to 80 Durometer

Length: Available in any length up to 12 feet

Polyurethane is also available in different shapes. In addition to the regular square edge cut, sharpened blades such as “D” cut and “S” cut are available. In addition, Polyurethane Squeegee Blades can be rounded for textile printing.

Polyurethane squeegees also resist “blade swelling.” They also have a life of 10 to 30 times longer than ordinary rubber. Polyurethane blades normally do not need sharpening too often.

Polyurethane blades also reduce pressure on the screen and have high tear resistance.

Call our technical department for the right blade for the right job.