Screen Printing machines help create high-quality and vibrant designs on shirts. Different types of printing machines are available, including mechanical and pneumatic. These two machines have many distinctions from each other. Their differences ignite the debate on mechanical vs pneumatic drive screen printing machines.
Some people consider mechanical drive printing machines the best option. However, the majority believes pneumatic is the superior option. Such division of thoughts about these two machines creates confusion. I will debunk all the confusion in this article, explaining their differences to help you choose the best machines. So, let’s get started!
Overview of Mechanical & Pneumatic Driver Printing Machines
Before discussing the differences, let’s start with the basics of these two screen printing machines.
Mechanical printing machines use motors to work. This motor controls the movement of all the parts, including the squeegee. On the flip side, pneumatic machines use compressed air to move parts. They are more powerful and can complete bulk orders quickly. Moreover, their designs are durable and vibrant.
The working principle of these printing machines is the same. For example, they use printing screens (fit on the mesh frame) squeegee and create designs on material. The material (t-shirt) remains under the screen. This screen remains fit on the mesh frame. The machine moves the squeegee on the surface of the screen.
As a result, the ink goes on the t-shirt underneath the screen. Remember, the screen contains a pre-made design. The ink from specific designs goes on the t-shirt. In the old machines, workers had to move squeegee. However, modern machines come with dedicated parts and systems for these movements. These two types differ in terms of how these parts of machines move.
A dedicated motor is used in mechanical machines. This motor rotates the gear, moves the squeegee, and makes the machines work. This motor runs on electricity. Pneumatic screen printing machines are entirely different. How? They use compressed air (high pressure) to move all the parts and components of machines.
Interestingly, pneumatic machines don’t have a chamber for compressed air. Instead, a separate compressor machine is used. This machine takes normal air and compresses it. This compressed air enters the machine using hoses. Once it enters the machine, it starts to rotate the parts of the machine, which helps create designs.
Differences Between Mechanical & Pneumatic Driver Printing Machines
The above section helps you understand the basics of these machines. However, their selection depends on many other factors. You must understand their key differences before making any decision. This will help you choose the right screen printing machines. Let’s discuss the most fundamental differences:
1- Power Source
There is a significant difference between these two machines. The mechanical machine comes with a motor. This motor uses electricity for its working. You must have an electricity source if you use this machine. On the flip side, pneumatic machines need compressed air along with electricity.
Their work relies on compressed air. This air goes inside the machines. After entering, it moves gears and a squeegee. The squeegee spreads the ink on the design on the screen. The ink then comes down to the shirt under the screen. In this way, design is made. These machines require compressed air as a source.
2- Setup Cost
The setup cost of a mechanical screen printing machine is low. Why? Because these machines don’t rely on external units. They have all their parts and components that work together. All you need to do is to provide electricity as a power source. The motor will start moving the parts, and you will get the design. However, pneumatic screen printing is more complex.
Its setup is more costly because it uses a separate air compressor (cylinder). This compressor connects to the screen printing machine through the hose. First, the compressor compresses normal air and then transfers it to the printing machine. You will need a compressor and hose connection. Moreover, screen printing and compressors use electricity, which is an additional cost.
3- Space & Production Size
The mechanical drive printing machines are compact and small. They don’t have big parts and components. These machines are single units that can be placed anywhere. That’s why I consider them ideal for beginners. They can easily fit in rooms or congested places without occupying more space.
On the flip side, the pneumatic drive machines are bigger. They have separate components like air cylinders (compressors) and other elements. These additional components occupy more space. Therefore, these printing machines are ideal for established businesses. Regarding production volume, the pneumatic machine stands out.
They are more powerful, and compressed air provides consistent power to machines. So they can create consistent quality products in no time. On the other hand, mechanical machines are compromised in terms of their power. They are suitable for small-scale productions. You can buy a mechanical drive machine as a good starting point.
4- Ease of Use & Speed
Generally, it is a myth that mechanical (manual) screen printing machines are easy to operate. However, I disagree, as this machine requires more human effort. Moreover, its speed is very slow. It is not a suitable option for those who have large projects to complete. It takes more time to design prints on T-shirts.
On the other hand, pneumatic machines are more focused on automation. They require minimal human effort. They compress and move the parts, including the squeegee that creates the design. What I love about these machines is their speed. They can make hundreds and thousands of prints on T-shirts in no time.
5- Ink Type & Material
The mechanical drive printing machine is compromised when it comes to ink types. This machine doesn’t work best with all kinds of inks. Instead, it is compatible with basic ink types such as plastisol or water-based ink.
The reason is that the pressure of these machines is not even. Manual efforts involve applying pressure and moving the squeegee. Other types of ink can spread on the material surface. Manufacturers only use cotton and polyester when creating designs using this method. On the flip side, pneumatic printing machines are very versatile.
Due to compressed air, they offer consistency. So, they can use any type of ink to create designs. Due to controlled pressure, the ink flow remains very smooth and consistent. This printing machine can easily make designs using any material or fabric.
6- Maintenance & Noise Level
Pneumatic-drive printing machines require more maintenance because more components work together. They need consistent lubrication and regular checks. These machines use valves, cylinders, and compressors. The valves always remain under high pressure, which can damage them.
So you will have to replace them. These machines also create hissing noise when working. This sound comes from the compressor. On the other hand, mechanical printing machines are quiet. They don’t produce annoying noise and offer a smooth experience.
Manual machines have fewer parts and components and don’t require regular maintenance. So they are ideal for quiet printing. However, their small noise level comes with a drawback. They are not very quick and cannot efficiently offer large-scale production. You should analyze both aspects before electing one machine.
Which Printing Machine Should You Choose, Mechanical or Pneumatic?
There is no one fit for all regarding Mechanical vs. Pneumatic Drive machines.
These two machines have a unique value proposition. A mechanical printing machine is suitable if you want to print designs on a small scale. A pneumatic printing machine is a perfect option if you’re a well-established business and work on a large scale. Your selection depends on your budget and requirements.
The pneumatic machines are automatic to some extent. Their production efficiency is second to none. This makes them excellent options for large-scale production. Their speed, in combination with precision, offers an outstanding printing experience. On the other hand, the mechanical-drive printing machines are slow.
I consider them suitable for those who run small businesses. For example, if you have a small shop and don’t need bulk printing, these machines are best for you. Their initial cost and maintenance are low, which is a big plus. Remember, pneumatic machines are high-end, and their performance is excellent.
You can choose them if you want to work at a professional scale. However, their initial cost is very high, along with regular maintenance. If you have a tight budget, you should avoid them. Are you starting a printing business with a tight budget? I recommend beginning with mechanical printing machines. Once you get money, you can buy pneumatic machines for better performance.
Заключение
It is challenging to announce one of these two machines as the best option, right? The reason is that these printing machines are particular in their purpose. The mechanical drive machine is best for small printing needs. Conversely, pneumatic machines are best suited for large-scale designing and printing on T-shirts.
Their basic working also differs from each other. The pneumatic machine uses a separate cylinder and compressor. The compressed air then goes into the machine. On the other hand, the manual machines run using the motors. You should carefully analyze your needs before choosing any of these two printing machines.