usable press area

[shellyky]

Thanks everyone for the welcome. Since everything is in storage right now it took me awhile to inventory it. So without further ado here's list of weapons:

16 x 20 Hotronix swing away press

what us te usable area you think of this?  we are new to heat press and just got this press...did a 15" transfer and the sides stuck...too large i figured?

[Frog]

If the press is any good, and has a decent heat platen, it should easily press an area 1" smaller. The platen should be the same temp edge to edge. I go 14" on my antique 15" Insta when I need to.
Though not accurate for actual temp (due especially to the reflective teflon coating), a non-contact gun should be able to give you an idea of this.

And yes, as you can see, I split this off to its own thread. Certainly not Brad's introduction any longer, lol!

[shellyky]

thanks.

[Frog]

Now, let's try to solve your particular issue.

What kind of transfer and what temp and time?

[mimosatexas]

my 21 year old geoknight 16x20 can press a 15"x19" transfer without issue

[Ryan]

get some temperature strips (paper thermometer company in NH), you can cut the strips up and lay them out and press so you know if you have any cold spots or uneven heat. Its probably the best thing you can do to determine if everything is kosher with your press.
~ryan

[Shanarchy]

Assuming the heating elements are fine, check that you have the proper pressure set. If it's not getting enough pressure that can cause an issue.