What is a Vacuum Heat Press

 Vacuum heat presses have been around for many years and have been used extensively in the mounting and laminating industry. Used by picture framers, graphics companies, sign makers and photographers amongst others a vacuum heat press can produce a superior product because of the even distribution of pressure they afford. High temperature vacuum presses are suitable for amongst other things dye sublimation and vinyl transfers. The potential applications are endless.

 A typical vacuum press has a rigid heated surface and an opposing flexible diaphragm. Air is evacuated between these two surfaces when the press is closed using a suitable vacuum pump. The resulting pressure applied to the rigid platen through the flexible diaphragm can be substantial and is applied evenly across the entire working surface.

 Because air pressure applies the force needed the rigid platen does not need the same sort of strength and weight required when the force is applied by mechanical or other means. This results in a lighter, less cumbersome machine that is easier to transport and install in difficult locations without sacrificing anything in terms of the qualityof the end product.

The lid of the press almost always houses the heated platen, although this can vary depending on the application and if necessary the heated surface can be located on the bottom. This does however make the handling and placing of objects more difficult, especially if high temperatures are being used as in dye sublimation. bottom heated presses are mostly restricted to archiving presses. Gas filled struts are used to take the weight of the lid and result effortless opening of the sometimes weighty lids.

Air extraction from the vacuum pump can be via the lid "heated platen" or base "diaphragm" , depending on manufacturer and application.