Over-Cure (Brittle/Cracked Transfers)
Excess heat/time over-hardens the adhesive—cracking after press or first wash.
Likely Causes
High cure temp/time: Crosslinking beyond spec reduces flexibility.
Film left in curing oven too long: Operator error or belt malfunction.
Powder type is too sensitive to heat: Using a low-temp powder at high-temp settings.
Excessive pressure during pressing: Flattens and damages the adhesive layer.
Quick Checks
- Reduce setpoint by 10–15°F and retest.
- Check dwell time and belt speed; ensure it matches the profile.
- Verify powder type is appropriate for the curing temperature.
- Reduce heat press pressure to medium.
Step-by-Step Fix
Lower cure to 230–240°F (110–116°C) and retest — Restores flexibility.
Calibrate oven temperature and belt speed — Ensures accurate and consistent curing.
Use a powder with a wider curing window — Adds a margin of error for temperature fluctuations.
Double-check the cure profile for the specific film/powder combo — Ensures you are using the manufacturer's recommended settings.
Acceptance Criteria
- No cracking after 2 wash cycles and stretch test.