Tips to Evaluate Router Hold down Methods

Evaluating router hold down methods to choose the most beneficial method for your application is important to achieve maximum quality and efficiency. Computer numerically controlled (CNC) applications require consistency with a reliable hold down method to meet the precision accuracy required in grinding or cutting processes. Choosing the right hold down method for your process requires an evaluation of a few important factors.

Consider the following factors when evaluating the right hold down method for your CNC router process:

• Changeover required - how quickly you need to change from one product to the next will help to determine the best hold down method for your application. Some hold down methods such as clamps and jigs take time to remove one product and install a new one. Vacuum table systems typically provide quick changeover with instant on/off capabilities. 

• Thickness of substrate - the thickness of your product or substrate is a critical factor in selecting the right hold down method. Vacuum tables typically do a good job of holding nearly any type of material whether thin, thick, rigid or flexible. 

• Material flow – The flow of material throughout your process is important to determine the right hold down method.  Vacuum systems can help to hold loose or cut parts in place so they don’t fly off the table and cause injury to workers.  

These are all very important considerations when choosing the right hold down method for your application. Vacuum hold down tables are proven in a wide range of applications for various substrates. Consulting with a vacuum table specialist may help you determine the right method for you.

Systematic Automation is a leading provider of vacuum table systems, screen printing machines for pretreatment and posttreatment systems. Our skilled engineers will help to evaluate your process and provide the best, custom designed solutions to meet your needs. 

Systematic Automation offers process evaluation to determine the right hold down method for your process.  We custom design the right vacuum table to improve your application efficiency, quality and profitability. Contact a vacuum table specialist to learn how to improve your CNC router application with the optimum hold down method.

Custom Designed Vacuum Tables to Meet Your Process Needs

Vacuum tables are proven beneficial in many industrial and commercial applications such as screen printing, CNC applications such as plotting and cutting and many other applications. Holding products firmly in place during additional processes improves consistency and accuracy for improved quality. Improve consistency, accuracy and quality all equates to improved profitability. 

When it comes to vacuum tables, not all vacuum hold down systems are created equally.  Consistent hold down force with maximum flatness is required to achieve accurate and precision cutting. Vacuum table systems many advantages over other hold down methods such as jigs, adhesives or clamps which can be time-consuming and less accurate. Vacuum hold down table should maintain a consistent flatness throughout the entire table system matter how large or small.

Systematic Automation Offers Custom Vacuum Table Solutions

Systematic Automation offers more than 35 years of experience designing, engineering and manufacturing high quality screen printing machines and vacuum table systems. Our vacuum tables maintain superior flatness proven at +/-.001” per linear foot in any size table.  We offer a wide selection of vacuum tables with sizes ranging from 5” x 6” to larger 72” x 144” vacuum tables with custom designed vacuum solutions available to meet specific application requirements.

Our skilled engineering team possesses in-depth knowledge of vacuum table technology to provide custom vacuum hold down force to meet your needs. Most vacuum tables are flat and square or rectangular although we offer custom designed shapes and sizes with horizontal or vertical vacuum force, heated vacuum tables and many additional options.

Standard options with our vacuum hold down tables include:

• Customized hole patterns
• Custom designed vacuum zones controllable with valves
• Automatic pin registration
• Sliding vacuum tables with two Axis of travel
• Surface options such as anodizing for resistance to corrosion
• Formica table top surfaces for resistance to scratching
• Sacrificial layers

Systematic Automation leads the industry with vacuum table technology in custom designed vacuum solutions to meet any application requirement.

Systematic Automation is a leading manufacturer of vacuum table systems, screen printing machines, pre and post treatment equipment.  We provide the automated solutions that deliver process improvement with maximum efficiency and quality. Contact us to learn how to improve your process with a custom designed vacuum table system.

Applications Which Benefit from Vacuum Hold down Systems

Vacuum hold down systems are beneficial to a wide range of processes such as computer numerically controlled (CNC) work processes, grinding and cutting.  Vacuum table systems are used in many industrial and commercial applications to hold products securely in place during additional precision work. Vacuum tables are used to hold various substrates in place such as metals, canvases, plastics, paper, cardboard and plexiglass to name just a few.

Applications which benefit from vacuum hold down systems include:

• Engraving - engraving requires precision work while your product is held firmly in place with no chance of slipping. Engraving processes and CNC engraving applications require consistent, reliable vacuum hold down force to achieve maximum productivity with precision quality work.
• Plotter cutter - vacuum table systems assist putting and cutting applications by holding materials firmly in place for accurate and efficient work processes. Sacrificial layers help to protect the vacuum table surface when necessary.
• Screen Printing – screen printing on various items requires precision accuracy. Vacuum hold down tables assist screen printing processes on flat products such as canvases, cardboard, paper or plexiglass. Rotating vacuum platens may be incorporated in cylindrical printing machines to hold mugs and glasses in place for precision screen printing.
• Flexography – vacuum tables support many commercial and industrial manufacturing applications such as production of graphic rubber rolls for flexography machines. Optimal vacuum hold down force should be designed to specific application requirements.
• Canvas and Sail Making – designing and cutting large canvas sails requires the material to write flat and even for accuracy and consistency.
• Material Handling – many material handling systems utilize vacuum conveyors to parts secure while transporting from one area to another.

Systematic Automation Offers Vacuum Hold Down Tables
Systematic Automation offers a wide selection vacuum table systems in virtually any size or shape imaginable. We custom design, engineer and manufacture small tabletop vacuum systems and large vacuum table systems to accommodate nearly any product. We set the industry standard with consistent flatness of +/-.001” per linear foot with all vacuum tables manufactured in our modern United States facility.

Systematic Automation sets the industry standard with vacuum table systems designed for any application.  We offer custom designed vacuum and screen printing solutions for nearly any application. Contact us to learn more about our vacuum hold down tables designed to improve your process.

How to Screen Print on Glassware

Screen printing on glass products can be tricky as the smooth glass surface prevents the adhesion of the most types of inks.  Pretreatment is usually required with a flame treatment machine that improves ink adhesion on plastic and glass products. When products are passed through a flame treating system, the molecular structure is altered enough to allow adhesion without changing any physical appearance.

Utilizing a screen printing machine with a flame pretreatment system is the best way to screen print on glass, plastic and no all nonporous products.


Screen Printing Machine with Flame Treatment for Glassware
The Model F1 by Systematic Automation is a popular screen printing machine for many versatile products including mugs and glasses.  The Model F1-DC is a dedicated cylindrical screen printer ideal for a range of products from small shot glasses to large growlers and glass mugs.  The Model F1 screen printer is easily integrated with a flame pretreatment system, Model FL, and a post treatment UV curing system.  

Systematic Automation offers total turnkey screen printing solutions, with semi-automatic and fully automatic screen printing machines, pretreatment and posttreatment systems.  Systematic Automation offers one of the widest selections of screen printing machines and vacuum table systems. Some screen printing applications benefit from vacuum table systems or vacuum platens to hold products firmly in place to improve quality and precision printing.


Multicolor Screen Printing on Glassware

Systematic Automation also offers the Model Super ROI, a precision screen printing machine with one to six color screen printing capability.  The Model Super ROI easily integrates with flame treatment and UV curing system technology. This automatic screen printer moves products in one linear direction and minimizes the handling required to be substrate with minimal lifting for printing and curing.

Systematic Automation offers a screen printing solution for any product, flat or cylindrical, small or large with single or multi-color printing solutions.  Our pre and post treatment systems combined with our vacuum table systems provide a total turnkey printing solution for maximum automation and efficiency. Contact us to speak with an engineer and learn more about proven printing solutions for screen printing on glassware and any other item.

Automatic Multicolor Styrofoam Cup Screen Printer

It can be challenging to find a quality screen printing machine to easily print on Styrofoam cups.  Screen printing on foam cups or soft sided material requires a precision screen printing machine with special tooling to accommodate sensitive foam material.  The Model T8-SS is an automatic screen printing machine which accommodates various cylindrical items and is ideal for printing on plastic or Styrofoam cups.

Model T8-SS Styrofoam Cup Screen Printing Machine

The Model T8-SS by Systematic Automation is a fully automatic, turret motion screen printer designed specifically for precision printing on cylindrical items. The Model T8-SS provides many automated features such as automatic loading and unloading, pretreating with a flame treatment system and posttreatment with UV curing options. 

This patented screen printer is ideal for printing on Styrofoam cups with product inflation for soft sided, sensitive material. Product inflation prevents damage which often occurs with other cup printing machines.  This automatic screen printer is ideal for high volume requirements, processing up to 2,000 products per hour depending upon the application.

Automatic loading and unloading saves time and manual labor.  Increase productivity by expanding the standard eight stations to accommodate your process. Styrofoam cups are printed and neatly stacked ready for packaging. This turnkey printing solution includes pretreatment and posttreatment for the most cost-efficient Styrofoam cup printing process available.

Multicolor printing is available with mechanical and optical registration.  Choosing the right cup printing machine for your process is important to achieve maximum productivity and quality.  The Model T8-SS provides quick changeover with specialized tooling which makes it easy to switch between different sizes of products in less than a minute.

Systematic Automation Offers Screen Printing Solutions

Systematic Automation offers one of the largest selections of screen printing machines, designed, engineered and manufactured in the modern, state-of-the-art US facility. We have been providing high-performance, precision screen printing machines and vacuum table systems for more than 35 years.  We are committed to providing efficient, automated solutions with quality equipment and exceptional customer service.

Systematic Automation provides more than 35 years of designing, engineering and manufacturing screen printing machines, vacuum tables and automated equipment. Our engineers possess in-depth knowledge of the screen printing process and provide custom designed printing solutions.  Contact us to speak with an engineer for assistance in selecting the right screen printer for your process.

Tips for Selecting the Best Mug Screen Printing Machine

There are some factors to consider when selecting the best mug screen printing machine for your application.  It can be challenging to screen print on plastic or glass mugs as the nonporous material is not very receptive to ink adhesion. Pretreating mugs for improved ink adhesion may be required on certain materials.

Consider the following tips when choosing the right mug screen printer for you:

Select a screen printer with pre-treatment options - evaluate the need for pretreating  your mugs for improved ink adhesion. A flame treatment machine alters the molecular structure of nonporous materials without altering the physical appearance whatsoever.

Consider posttreatment with UV curing - UV curing specialty inks improves quality and productivity in many printing applications. UV curing dries inks instantly, improving cycle time and profitability. UV curing also provides a more consistent process over air drying as there is no time for evaporation and inks dry evenly without potential contamination from dust or airborne contaminants.

Evaluate your requirement for versatility - consider all of your mug screen printing jobs and what material you will be printing on.   You will need a versatile mug screen printing machine to switch between plastic, ceramic or glass in various sizes.

Consider the level of automation desired - be sure that your screen printing machine meets automation requirements that you desire. Some automatic screen printing machines offer automatic loading, unloading and stacking with pretreatment and posttreatment options.

Evaluate your volume requirements – the volume of your print job may also dictate the automation you desire. Volume is an important consideration when evaluating the right screen printing machine to provide the greatest value and cost effective printing operation.

Consult with an experienced screen printing machine manufacturer for answers to all your questions on selecting the right screen printer for your application.


Systematic Automation Offers Mug Screen Printing Options 

Systematic Automation offers one of the widest selections of screen printing machines available including mug screen printers with options to meet your needs. The Model F1 is known as one of the most versatile screen printing machines made. The Model Super ROI provides increased automation to meet higher volume requirements.

Systematic Automation provides screen printing solutions for a total turnkey operation with multicolor printing, pretreatment and posttreatment options available.

Systematic Automation is a leading global supplier and manufacturer of patented screen printing machines, vacuum tables automated equipment. We offer custom design and engineering to provide maximum benefit in turnkey operations. Contact us to speak with an engineer for assistance in choosing the best mug screen printing machine to provide maximum benefit to your application.

Considerations When Evaluating Hold Down Methods

Router applications such as CNC machining, grinding, cutting and other precision processes require substrates to be held firmly in place. Various methods of hold down technology can be used depending on your substrate. Many industrial processes require reliable hold down force of various substrates such as wood, metals aluminum, steel, plastics, plexiglass and many other types of materials.

Choosing the hold down method which facilitates precision operations with quick changeover will provide the most benefits.  Some common hold down methods used in various industrial processes include vacuum tables, clamps, jigs, screws or even adhesives. Here are a few of the top considerations when evaluating hold down methods for CNC or router processes.

The thickness of your substrate - the thickness of your substrate is an important factor when choosing the right hold down technology. While clamps or jigs may hold thicker substrates securely in place, they may not facilitate quick changeovers. Clamps can be time-consuming to remove and reapply, jigs may allow for some slippage and these hold down methods are typically not ideal for thin materials.  Vacuum hold down technology will hold thin or flimsy materials firmly in place as well as securing thicker products for precision processes.

Changeover time - hold down methods which facilitate quick changeovers improve cycle times leading to increased productivity. This is one area where vacuum table technology outperforms other hold down methods. Quality vacuum tables can be designed with custom vacuum zones which can instantly be turned on or off for improved efficiency, productivity and profitability.

Material flow - the movement of material throughout your application is an important factor in choosing the right hold down technology. In certain cutting applications, special care must be taken to ensure that cut pieces do not fly off the table and pose a safety hazard.

Upon evaluation of these considerations, you may find that vacuum hold down technology provides the most benefit to your process. Consulting with a vacuum table specialist will help you to understand the features and benefits available to you.

Systematic Automation Assists with Evaluating Hold down Technology

The engineers at Systematic Automation offer more than 35 years of experience in designing vacuum tables for a wide range of industries and applications. We can help you to evaluate vacuum table technology compared to other hold down methods to help you choose the right system for your process. Our skilled engineers offer custom designed vacuum hold down tables to meet your specifications.

Our vacuum tables set the industry standard with +/- .001” per linear foot for any size of vacuum table system.  Our standard vacuum tables range in sizes from 5” x 6” up to 72” x 144”, with even larger custom designed sizes available. We can program specific vacuum zones with controllable valves, custom design hole patterns and table top surface options including Formica or anodizing for corrosion resistance as well as designing sacrificial layers to protect your tabletop surface.

Systematic Automation is recognized worldwide for designing, engineering and manufacturing high quality vacuum table systems, as well as offering one of the widest selections of screen printing machines available. Our vacuum table systems complement many screen printing operations as well as a multitude of commercial and industrial processes.

Systematic Automation offers assistance in evaluating various hold down methods to meet your application requirements. We partner with you to custom design the right vacuum hold down table to provide maximum efficiency with precision quality. Contact us to learn how vacuum hold down technology can benefit your application and improve your product and process quality.

Custom Designed Vacuum Table Solutions

Vacuum table systems are utilized worldwide in a wide variety of industrial manufacturing processes. Using vacuum hold down technology during operations such as screen printing, material movement, engraving and CNC operations provides many benefits. Vacuum tables are proven to increase quality by aiding consistent work processes and improve productivity with quick and efficient changeovers.

Vacuum tables provide many advantages over other methods of holding down products such as screws, jigs, adhesives or clamps. With a vacuum table system designed for your specifications, you can instantly shut off or on vacuum force in a targeted zone to facilitate quick changeovers. Utilizing a vacuum table custom designed to your specifications will greatly improve your quality, productivity and profitability.

Vacuum Tables with Advanced Engineering Features

Systematic Automation has been designing and manufacturing vacuum tables with advanced engineering features for more than 35 years. Our experienced engineering team is skilled at designing a vacuum hold down solution to meet your custom specifications. We offer vacuum table solutions for any size of product ranging from small tabletop systems to large tables which accommodate products like large canvases and boat sails.

We set the industry standard with consistent and reliable flatness of +/-.001” per linear foot and offer many advanced engineering features. Our vacuum table systems are designed to meet your unique specifications with features such as:

• Custom vacuum zones
• Valves for custom on / off control
• Custom hole patterns
• Sliding table with two axis of travel
• Automatic pin registration
• Sacrificial layers to protect tabletop surface
• Surface options such as anodizing or Formica table top
• Vertical or horizontal hold down force
• Custom designed shapes

Systematic Automation partners with you from the beginning to learn your exact process requirements and develop a vacuum hold down solution. We offer advanced and custom designed engineering features to meet your needs. No job is too small or too large with custom vacuum solutions. We are recognized worldwide as a leading provider vacuum tables and screen printing machines, offering quality components and exceptional customer service.

Systematic Automation offers automated, turnkey solutions with vacuum tables used in any industry.  We help to improve your quality and productivity with custom vacuum solutions to meet your specific requirements. Contact us to speak with an engineer and learn how to improve your process with custom designed vacuum hold down tables.

Improve Your Process with Vacuum Hold Down Systems

Vacuum hold down systems aid a multitude of applications by holding products and various substrates in place during additional processes. Vacuum tables come in all shapes and sizes and processes such as CNC machining, printing and many others.  Vacuum tables successfully hold many products such as plastics, plexiglass, canvases, metals and many others.
Vacuum hold down table systems can be found worldwide, improving a wide variety of applications and processes such as:

Screen Printing - screen printing on various items can be challenging without the help of a vacuum table system to hold your item securely.  Screen printing machines which utilize vacuum tables offer improved quality and productivity.

Engraving – engraving applications which utilize vacuum table systems experience improved quality with consistency.  Vacuum hold down tables designed for your application provide quicker changeover than other hold down methods such as screws, adhesives or jigs.

Sail Making – precision cutting or printing on large canvases require a reliable hold down method for accuracy. Large vacuum tables improve canvas and sail making processes with consistent flatness for precision operations.

Material Handling - material handling systems which incorporate vacuum hold down technology keep your products safe during transport from one area to another while maintaining part specifications and dimensions to maintain quality.

Custom Designed Vacuum Hold down Tables

Systematic Automation has been manufacturing vacuum tables for more than 35 years, offering custom design solutions to meet your specifications. We offer small tabletop vacuum systems, large vacuum tables to accommodate boat sails or oversized canvases, and custom designed vacuum solutions. We set the industry standard with consistent flatness of +/-.001” per linear foot and use only quality components in our state-of-the-art United States facility.

Systematic Automation is a recognized global leader in vacuum hold down technology. We offer a wide selection of vacuum tables with advanced engineering features and custom solutions to meet your needs. Contact us to learn how vacuum hold down technology will benefit your application.

Tips for Screen Printing PVC ID Cards

Printing on plastic cards is a popular printing application as plastic cards are used for a number of industries and applications. There is a great need to process printing on things like credit cards, identification cards, luggage tags and other flat, small items.  While this may seem like a simple process, there are several things to consider that will make printing on plastic ID cards go a lot smoother.

It is important to choose the right screen printer to print on plastic cards with all of the features and options for a successful process. There are many things you want to consider when selecting the right PVC ID card printer for you. Here are some tips on things to look for when searching for the perfect plastic card printing machine.

You’ll want to make sure that your PVC card printer includes the following features:

Automatic loading - an automatic feeder is a must for quick processing.

Automatic stacking – you’ll want your plastic cards to stack neatly in a pile after printing.

Dust removal - this is a very important feature when printing on plastic cards and is critical to quality printing without blemishes.

Anti-static treatment - static is a common problem with printing on plastic cards making anti-static features mandatory for successful printing.

Vacuum hold down - PVC ID card printers which utilize vacuum hold down can process cards quicker and with improved quality.

UV curing - plastic card printers which offer UV curing options produce high-quality inks which dry instantly upon UV exposure. This greatly improves quality and process time.
One plastic card printing machine offers all of these benefits and more, the CC-5000 PVC ID card printer by Systematic Automation delivers a host of benefits and engineering features

CC-5000 PVC ID Card Printer by Systematic Automation

The CC–5000 PVC ID card printer is a fully automatic In-Line screen printing machine which provides precision printing on small, flat items with proven consistency.  This plastic card printer offers 100% pneumatic operation for smooth, continual printing. Learn more about this proven plastic card printing solution from the screen printing specialists at Systematic Automation.

Systematic Automation offers the widest selection of screen printing machines and vacuum table systems.  We offer printing solutions for any size of product from small plastic cards to large boat sails. Contact us to speak with a skilled engineer to find the best solution for your plastic card printing process.

Here’s the Best Cup Screen Printing Solution

Screen printing on plastic cups can be tricky unless you have right equipment. Printing on plastic cups and mugs is a very common marketing and promotional process and can be a profitable one with a cup screen printing machine.  We have evaluated three different screen printing machines which are ideal for printing on cups.

The machine you choose will depend upon various factors such as the volume of cup printing you anticipate, the automation required and your budget. No matter your goals, there is a screen printing machine which meets your requirements with profitable printing solutions.

An entry-level screen printer which prints on a wide range of cylindrical items to meet versatility needs is the Model F1 – DC.  For a fully automated cup printing machine with automated stacking and auxiliary options, the T8 – SS delivers quality precision printing with increased productivity for increased profitability. For something in between, the Model PT – 8 prints in autocycle with an operator loading and unloading quality printed cups. 

Model F1-DC Clamshell Cup Printing Machine

The Model F1-DC is dedicated to cylindrical printing with versatility and a modular design. This affordable clamshell printer processes up to 3,600 items per hour depending on your specific process.

Model T8-SS Turret Motion Cup Screen Printer

The Model T8-SS cup screen printer offers quick and easy set-up and fully automated cup printing with the auto loading and unloading. Printed cups are accumulated in an orderly, complete stack. Additional options such as UV curing provides instant drying of high quality inks and improves cycle time. The T8 – SS will produce up to 2,000 products per hour depending on your process.

Model PT-8 High Speed Cup Screen Printer

The Model PT-8 is a high speed, low cost, cup printing machine providing precision printing to versatile cylindrical items. This user-friendly printer provides autocycle printing with operators loading and unloading cups onto the eight station rotary indexer, accommodating versatility to print on various sizes of items.

You can learn more about each one of these cup printing machines from Systematic Automation, the leading screen printing manufacturer and global supplier of printing solutions.

Systematic Automation offers screen printing solutions for any size of product with the widest selection of screen printing machines available.  We offer custom designed screen printers, vacuum tables automated equipment for turnkey solutions. Contact us for manufacturer direct pricing and exceptional customer service.

The Best Way to Screen Print on Mugs

Coffee mugs are a great promotional product that many companies give away touting their brand and logo. Whether sipping coffee, tea or your favorite beverage, your favorite mug is in your hands for a good part of the day. This is an easy way to get your company name in front of your audience and buyers on a regular basis.

Whether you are bringing this job in-house to screen print your own mugs, or you are a screen printing provider looking for the best mug screen printing machine, here are a couple of our favorite screen printers for the job.

Model F1 Screen Printing Machines for Mugs

The Model F1 by Systematic Automation is one of the most versatile clamshell screen printing machines available. The F1 has the ability to print on either flat or cylindrical items, whereas the Model F1 – DC is dedicated to cylindrical printing.  The F1 – DC offers precision, high volume printing of up to 3,600 items per hour. Additional benefits include 100% pneumatic operation, full pedal control, adjustable squeegee height, steel casters for mobility and heavy duty x, y and angular axis.

Model T8-SS Screen Printing Machine for Mugs

The Model T8-SS provide high quality, multicolor screen printing machine on mugs with many automated options available. Incorporate automatic loaders, unloaders and pretreatment machine such as a flame treater which improves ink adhesion on plastics or glass.  UV curing is also available to instantly dry vibrant inks which provides high-quality and improved cycle times.

Systematic Automation Offers Mug Printing Solutions

Systematic Automation is an industry leading manufacturer of high quality, precision screen printing machines and vacuum tables which aid a multitude of applications. We expertly design, engineer and manufacture semi-automatic and fully automatic screen printers, vacuum tables, pre-treatment and post-treatment equipment such as flame treatment machines and UV curing machines. All equipment is manufactured in our modern United States facility and rigorously tested prior to shipping.

Systematic Automation provides turnkey solutions for screen printing applications with affordable and easy to operate screen printing machines. We offer custom designed engineering features to meet your specifications coupled with exceptional customer service. Contact us to learn how you can improve your screen printing process for any product requirement including printing on mugs.

How to Choose the Right Vacuum Table for Your Process

Vacuum tables are used to improve many commercial and industrial applications by holding down various substrates and products during additional processes. Whether using your vacuum table for machining, milling, drilling, cutting or screen printing, choosing the right type of vacuum table and pump is an important decision. Consider the following factors when selecting the right vacuum table for your process:

• Type of application or process
• Air permeability of substrate or product
• Surface area of your substrate or product
• Friction between the substrate and vacuum table

These are all important considerations in selecting the right vacuum table and pump for your application.  Increased horsepower does not improve a process.  Evaluate these factors for successful implementation and operation of your vacuum hold down table.

Type of Application or Process

The type of application or process is an important factor when selecting the right type of vacuum table and pump. The vacuum table must complement your application with the efficiency, accuracy, consistent flatness and the right amount of vacuum hold down force for your product.

Air Permeability of Substrate or Product
the air permeability of your substrate or product is a critical factor when determining the amount of vacuum hold down necessary. Products with increased air permeability such as canvas or paper do not require the amount of vacuum force needed when holding down a solid sheet of metal, wood or aluminum.

Surface Area of Your Substrate or Product
The surface area of your substrate or product is another critical factor when choosing the right type of vacuum table and pump. Smaller parts may require more vacuum force or a denser hole pattern to hold them in place during processes.

Friction between the Substrate and Vacuum Table
The amount of friction between your substrate and the vacuum table is another important factor when choosing the right type of vacuum hold down system.  Substrates that are more prone to slip may require a higher amount of vacuum force. If your vacuum table top has a non-slippery surface it may help to hold your substrate more firmly in place.

For more information on selecting the right type of vacuum table and pump for your application, consult with the leading vacuum table manufacturers at Systematic Automation.

Systematic Automation has over 35 years of experience designing, engineering and manufacturing high quality vacuum tables. We offer assistance in selecting the right vacuum table for your application as well as custom designed options to meet your specifications. Contact us to speak with an engineer and for assistance in evaluating your application and vacuum hold down requirements.

Screen Printing Machines with Vacuum Tables

Vacuum tables are used to enhance many applications including screen printing.  Whether you are printing on flat or cylindrical products, vacuum tables or vacuum hold down platens help to keep your product securely in place for quality printing results. Many screen printing machines allow for vacuum system options although a few models stand out from the rest as offering maximum value with high performance and low cost.

Whether you are printing on flat or cylindrical items, Systematic Automation has the right screen printing machine and vacuum table system for your process.

Screen Printing on Flat Products with Vacuum Hold down
Systematic Automation offers many solutions for printing on flat products such as the automatic Model CC–5000 screen printer.  This automatic screen printing machine features pneumatic controls for smooth and quiet operation with adjustable print stroke speed, the screen printer is popular for printing plastic cards and utilizes of vacuum pump for accurate, precision printing.
The Model ST36/ST48 is a popular semi-automatic screen printing machine for large, flat products such as banners and signs. The screen printer accommodates sizes of 36” x 36” or 48” x 48”, featuring dual printhead controls, foot pedal cycle start and controls and X, Y and angular micro-adjust

Screen Printing on Cylindrical Products with Vacuum Platens
Vacuum hold down platens utilized in screen printing machines help to hold cylindrical items in place during precision printing.  The Model 810 is a clamshell screen printing machine with versatility to print on either flat or cylindrical products. The semi-automatic screen printer is popular for printing on cups, mugs, glassware and other cylindrical items.

Systematic Automation offers a low cost manual screen printer, the MC–1, which offers many desirable features along with the option of printing on flat or cylindrical items with vacuum table system features.

Whether printing on flat or cylindrical products, Systematic Automation offers the widest selection of screen printing machines available along with vacuum hold down options for improved quality and efficiency.

Systematic Automation is recognized as an authority on screen printing machines and vacuum tables.  We design, engineer and manufacture high quality screen printers and precision vacuum tables with consistent flatness. Contact us to learn more about screen printer vacuum tables and how to improve your product and process quality.

Small Vacuum Table Tips for Success

Vacuum tables aid many applications by holding various products and substrates firmly in place during additional processes. It can be tricky to hold small parts securely during cutting or milling applications. It is important to know how to use your vacuum table properly for quality processes as well as safety to the operator. Preventing your small parts from slipping and holding cut pieces firmly in place so they don’t fly around and cause injury is important during cutting processes.

Here are a few tips and things to consider for improved product and process quality as well as operator safety when using small vacuum tables.

1)  Use a sacrificial layer.
Utilizing a sacrificial layer for your small vacuum table will help to protect your tabletop surface during cutting or milling applications. Sacrificial layers should have matching hole patterns or be permeable to allow air to flow through the layer.  It is important to replace damaged sacrificial layers to maintain consistent flatness.

2)  Consider the vacuum hole patterns.
Vacuum tables typically have similar hole patterns although smaller tables may require a denser hole patterns to hold smaller parts in place. More vacuum holes to create a denser hole pattern will hold small parts for securely in place and will prevent pieces from flying off the table and causing injury.

3)  Use tools designed for small vacuum tables.
It is important to use tools designed for small vacuum tables during your cutting or milling processes as smaller cuts are required. Talk with an experienced vacuum table manufacturer for more tips on the right tools and strategies to preserve your workpiece.

4)  Determine your vacuum table strategy.
Plan out your strategy ahead of time and determine the amount of hold down force required for your milling or cutting process.  Determining your strategy including proper process set up parameters will allow you to achieve maximum productivity while preventing damage product and injury.
For more tips on how to properly use a vacuum table for maximum benefit contact Systematic Automation, a leading manufacturer of quality vacuum table systems and precision screen printing machines.

Systematic Automation designs engineers and manufacturers vacuum tables of all shapes and sizes with high-quality components and consistent flatness. You can find our vacuum tables in a myriad of applications and industries worldwide. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection and tips for using any size of vacuum table.

Easy Screen Printer for Cups and Cylindrical Items

There are many options out there for printing on cups, mugs, bottles and cylindrical items.  Finding the right screen printer for you depends upon a few considerations such as how much versatility and automation is needed.  One printer stands out from the rest and is known in the industry at the most versatile screen printer ever made.

The Model F1 is simple, brilliant and versatile with the ability to print on both flat and cylindrical items. The F1–DC stands for dedicated cylindrical and is the printer of choice for many applications that require printing on cups and other cylindrical items. This workhorse, clamshell screen printer can produce up to 3,600 products per hour depending on the application.

Model F1-DC Features and Benefits

The F1-DC has many desirable engineering features to provide a versatile, reliable and highly accurate precision screen printer. Features and benefits include:

• Variable flood bar and squeegee speed
• Adjustable flood length and print stroke
• Print flood cycle allows the machine to wait in flood position
• Heavy duty micro adjust table with X, Y and angular axes
• Heavy duty steel base with casters
• Foot pedal cycle starts
• Overhead carriage screen lift
• Quick changeover in seconds
• Capability to adjust to various sizes
• 100% pneumatic for smooth and quiet operation
• Multicolor, precision printing
• Up to 3,600 parts per hour throughput depending on product

This versatile clamshell screen printer offers these features and many others.  Systematic Automation offers assistance in evaluating the benefits of the Model F1 and our many other selections of semi-automatic and automatic screen printing machines.  We design, engineer and manufacture screen printing machines and precision vacuum tables utilized worldwide in a wide range of commercial and industrial applications.

We offer flame treatment to pretreat plastic products for improved ink adhesion, UV curing inks and a patented UV curing system for quick drying of vibrant inks that will last. We design, engineer and manufacture high-quality equipment in our state-of-the-art US facility, and inspect all machinery with rigorous testing prior to shipping.

Systematic Automation is an experienced manufacturer of screen printing machines and vacuum tables found worldwide. We offer high-quality equipment, exceptional customer service, support and training. Contact us to learn how to choose the screen printer which provides maximum value for your application.

Cost-Efficient Screen Printing on Cups and Mugs

Screen printing on cups, mugs, bottles and other promotional items can be a profitable business with the right cup printing machine. Companies who promote their business and their brand on beautiful cups, mugs and bottles get their name in front of their audience on a regular basis.  Providing high-quality, cost-efficient screen printing on cups and mugs can be as simple as finding the right screen printing machine.

Cup Printing Machine Options

It’s always better to talk straight to the machine manufacturer rather than a salesperson or some equipment reseller. Systematic Automation designs, engineers and manufacturers screen printing machines which outperform comparable models. With nearly 2 dozen standard models to choose from and custom designed options available, the knowledgeable staff will help you find the right printer for your process with the most cost-efficient solution.

Model PT-8 Cup Printing Machine

There are a few screen printing machines which perform well for printing on cups, such as the Model PT-8, the Model F1–DC and Model T8 – SS.  We help to evaluate your process and determine the best printer for your application.  Depending on your volume and the level of automation required, the Model PT-8 will provide high quality printing on cups with cost-efficient operation and a quick return on investment.

This turret motion screen printer is a high-speed, cost-efficient solution for printing on cups and cylindrical items.  Standard engineering features include:

• 100% pneumatic control for smooth and quiet operation
• Adjustable operating, print and flood speed
• Single or automatic cycles
• Emergency stop
• Standard 8 station indexer with custom options available
• Hardened, polished shafts with ball bearings rated for over 300 million cycles
• Adjustable squeegee with quick release assembly

These benefits and many more are available with this high quality screen printing machine.  Systematic Automation partners with you to examine your process and deliver the best printing solution for your needs. We offer one of the widest selections of printing machines which can be found worldwide in a number of industries and applications.

Systematic Automation designs, engineers and manufacturers high quality screen printing machines, vacuum tables pretreatment and posttreatment equipment. We partner with you to provide the most cost-efficient printing solution with state-of-the-art equipment and full customer service. Contact us to learn more and to find the right screen printer for your cups, mugs and cylindrical items.

What’s the Best Screen Printing Machine for Plastic Bottles

It can be challenging to print on plastic bottles of varying levels of thickness and sizes.  Plastic can be especially difficult to print on due to the nonporous nature of the surface which hinders ink adhesion. When printing on plastic cups, a pretreatment application such as with a flame treater may be required to improve the ink adhesion to the plastic surface.

It is best to check with an experienced screen printing specialist for guidance on selecting the right cup printing machine for your application.

Systematic Automation Offers Cup Printing Solutions

Systematic Automation offers a wide selection of high quality, precision screen printing machines with a few models designed for efficient printing on plastic cups.  The Model F1-DC is a versatile clamshell printer which prints on nearly any cylindrical item, the Model PT-8 is a high-speed, turret motion printer and the fully automated T8–SS offers automatic loading and unloading with pretreatment and UV curing options available.

Model F1-DC Cup Printing Machine

The Model F1 screen printing machine set the industry standard with high speed, precision, versatility and simple operation. The Model F1–DC is dedicated to cylindrical products of varying shapes and sizes, with quick changeover and universal tooling. This will become the workhorse printer of your operation providing a quick return on investment.

This versatile, clamshell printer provides smooth and quiet 100% pneumatic operation with mechanical point registration. High quality rack and pinion system rotates cups, bottles, mugs and cylindrical products with precision accuracy and heavy duty X, Y and angular axes which allow easy adjustments. Multicolor printing, pretreatment processes such as flame treating, UV inks with a UV curing system is available for high-quality, vibrant screen printing that will last.

Systematic Automation offers many options for screen printing on cups, mugs, even kegs and virtually any product.  Our wide selection of semiautomatic and fully automatic screen printing machines accommodate a wide range of applications and can be found worldwide in many industries. We design, engineer and manufacture screen printing machines, vacuum tables, pretreatment and posttreatment equipment.

Systematic Automation is recognized as a leading supplier of high quality screen printing machines and vacuum tables with more than 35 years of experience. We provide exceptional customer support and training along with custom designed, automated solutions. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of screen printing solutions including high quality and efficient printing on cups, mugs and cylindrical items.

Considerations When Using a Small Vacuum Table

Vacuum tables are used in many manufacturing, industrial and commercial applications to facilitate a wide range of processes. Small tabletop vacuum systems are very helpful in holding small parts in place during milling or cutting processes to improve accuracy and prevent part slippage. Vacuum tables also help to hold parts in place to prevent cut pieces from flying off and causing damage or injury.

There are a few things that you should consider when implementing a small vacuum table to ensure optimum hold down force and process control. Small vacuum tables are an integral component in many applications providing effective hold down with quick and easy changeover. Vacuum tables which offer controllable zones and custom designed hole patterns provide the greatest value to your process.

Consider the following tips when implementing a small vacuum hold down table:

1)  Determine your strategy
The first thing to do to get the most out of your small vacuum table is to determine your strategy. You’ll need to know how much cutting force to use without damaging your tabletop surface or sacrificial layer. Evaluating your substrate and the cutting force required to help determine how to plan optimum vacuum hold down force.

2)  Use a sacrificial layer
Using a sacrificial layer is important to protect your tabletop surface especially during milling and cutting processes.  Sacrificial layers may be constructed with matching vacuum holes or permeable to allow airflow through the layer.

3)  Evaluate the vacuum hole patterns
Vacuum hole patterns play an important role in holding your parts securely in place. Smaller parts may require a denser hole patterns. Speaking with an experienced vacuum table manufacturer will help you decide the right hole patterns for your substrate and application.

4)  Use the right tools
It’s important to use the right tools with your small vacuum table to preserve the table surface quality.  Smaller parts require smaller, precision cuts, which are always best conducted in a downward motion with all safety precautions in place.

Speak with an experienced vacuum table specialist to determine the best approach to your process with a small vacuum table.  Systematic Automation leads the industry with knowledge and expertise in all things related to vacuum table systems. You can find a small vacuum table or a large system up to 72” x 144” with custom sizes available, all with consistent flatness and reliable hold down force.

Systematic Automation leads the industry in design and manufacturing of vacuum table systems and screen printing machine.  We provide quality equipment, exceptional customer service and ongoing support.  Contact us to speak with an engineer and learn how to improve your application with proven vacuum table solutions.

When to Use Heated Vacuum Tables

Heated vacuum tables add an element to the standard vacuum hold down table with the extra feature of heat.  This is advantageous in many industrial and commercial applications to improve manufacturing parameters and product quality.  Heated vacuum tables can be found enhancing many processes such as:

• Curing of various polymers and composites
• Aiding solar energy equipment and systems
• Manufacturing of lacquers, varnishes and thin films
• Removing trapped air in products and substrates
• Debulking for compaction
• Curing of specialty inks in printing processes
• Removing wrinkles in fabrics
• Infusing and bonding of fabrics

There are many specifications which should be considered when utilizing heated vacuum tables.  A vacuum table specialist with experienced in vacuum table manufacturing and applications can assist you in providing the right heated vacuum hold down solution.  Setting the right parameters and custom designed vacuum table features will ensure optimum hold down and heated vacuum force for optimum material flow and fabrication.
Heated Vacuum Tables Manufactured with Custom Features
Custom designed engineering features in your heated vacuum table are key to achieving optimum performance.  Systematic Automation offers heated vacuum tables reaching over 500° F with custom designed solutions available.  With more than 35 years of experience in designing and manufacturing vacuum table systems for a multitude of applications, Systematic Automation offers value added services such as free training included and exceptional customer service and support.
All vacuum table systems come with automatic pin registration and consistent flatness of +/-.001” per linear foot in all sizes of vacuum tables, even oversized tables larger than 72” x 144”.  Our small table top vacuum systems service a wide range of industrial applications including precision cutting and plotting. Custom designed hole patterns and controllable zones are available as well as portable vacuum tables with movable casters and surface options.
Sacrificial layers, Formica table top or anodizing improve surface operations and preserve the table top surface.  All equipment is manufactured of high quality components in our modern U.S. facility, and found worldwide in a multitude of applications.  We support small and large business operations with full OEM support.
Systematic Automation offers the widest selection of vacuum table systems with endless custom designed engineering features available. We are one of the largest global suppliers of precision vacuum tables, screen printing machines, flame treatment and UV curing solutions. Our vast resources and in-depth expertise provide turnkey automated solutions for any screen printing our vacuum hold down application.
Systematic Automation is regarded an authority on vacuum table systems with custom designed vacuum solutions for any application.  We provide total turnkey automated solutions with full customer support. Contact us to speak with an engineer about our heated vacuum tables and the best vacuum system for your application.