FAQ

1. How do I know what the correct frame is?

2. What are the benefits of a retensionable frame vs a rigid frame?

3. When should I use a Draw Bar Frame?

4. How do I soften the corners on my Roller Frame?

5. What makes your rigid/stretch and glue frames better than the competitions?

6. How does the Tension Quik stretcher work?

7. What do you recommend for Large Format printing?

8. Why does my mesh tear?

9. Are custom sizes available?

10. Is training/support available?

11. Are specific tools required?

12. Why should I choose Diamond Chase frames?

13. Where are Diamond Chase frames made?

1. How do I know what the correct frame is?

There are many factors in choosing the right frame: the application, the image size to be printed, the run size, and the equipment it will be used on are just some of the variables. Different frames can be used for the same application. Retensionable frames (draw bar and roller) are used in applications where high tensions are desirable. Draw bar frames are particularly good for printed circuits, decals, membrane switches, serigraphy, signage, face panels, glass, clear coating, and anywhere tight registration is required. Roller frames are used for textile printing, cap printing, signs, billboards, banners, and fleet markings. Stretch and Glue frames (rigid aluminum) are used in general screen printing applications. With the most extensive product line in the industry, Eino Products / Diamond Chase is able to recommend the proper frame for a specific application. Matching the frame to the task is a service only we can provide.

2. What are the benefits of a retensionable frame vs a rigid frame?

The key benefit is that retensionable frames allow for consistent and higher tensions. “Old” frames or “retensioned” frames provide greater stability. Higher tensions provide for:

• Less image distortion
• Higher print speed
• Much better quality of image
• More accurate register
• Better consistency from the beginning to the end of a print run
• Less wear of the squeegee edge
• Less wear of the fabric
• Much better quality control of the printed image
• Faster set-up from one color to the next one
• Widely superior repeatability from one run to its reprint later
• Highly increased productivity

3. When should I use a Draw Bar Frame?

Draw bar frames are used whenever close tolerance printing is desired with high tensions. The advantage of draw bar frames over roller frames is the ability to adjust the tension in smaller areas or grids providing for even distribution of tensioning across the entire surface. Draw Bar frames are used whenever tight registration is required. The ability to adjust on-press mis-registration within the frame itself makes it the most accurate system available.
Draw bar frames have a higher initial cost but over the long run they are less expensive because they will last you a life time.

4. How do I soften the corners on my Roller Frame?

The short answer is to soften corners on fabric above 200 threads per inch or tensions above 30 n/cm by placing thumb on top of locking rods 2″ to 3″ in from the end. Pull up on excess fabric pulling rods out of channel. Push down on inside fabric, softening corners. Replace rods in channel with fabric insertion tool.
For the long answer go to Roller Frame Instructions and/or watch the Roller Frame video.

5. What makes your rigid/stretch and glue frames better than the competitions?

Diamond Chase Stretch & glue frames are manufactured from high-quality, custom made extrusions. Specifically designed by Diamond Chase, these profiles have rounded edges for comfortable handling and are engineered for the strength and weight characteristics required. Each frame is welded watertight, leveled, and sandblasted for excellent adhesion.

6. How does the Tension Quik stretcher work?

The Tension-Quik is primarily manufactured as an adjustable screen stretcher for glue-on frames. Four independent channels link together allowing the unit to move in and out, adjusting the size in both directions. The channels enclose a tensioning roller that ratchets in a clockwise rotation to tension the mesh. Each roller has a fabric locking system to easily and securely capture the mesh.
For complete information see the Tension Quik Instruction sheet and/or watch the Tension Quik video.

7. What do you recommend for Large Format printing?

To accommodate the rigorous requirements of large format printing, the Roller Chase, Draw-Bar frame, Tension Quik, and Stretch & Glue frames are all available in reinforced enlarged profiles. The Roller Chase Large Format combines our roller system with an external, sectional support frame. Additionally, the main support frame fully encloses the tensioning roller preventing fabric damage due to the awkward handling associated with large format printing. Every large format frame comes welded and assembled for a one-piece durable frame.

8. Why does my mesh tear?

There are several reasons why a screen will tear. However, the most common is incorrect handling. Frames should not be dropped, dragged or thrown around. When reclaiming frames you should make sure there are no burrs or left over glue on them that can snag or tear the mesh. Mesh will also tear on the retensionable frames if the corrner softening is not done correctly. (see Roller Frame and Draw Bar instruction sheets and videos)
For proper storage and movement we recommend you use proper racks and carts (see Carts and Racks in Products section).

9. Are custom sizes available?

We specialize in custom size frames. All of our frames are built to order so you can get exactly what you need.

10. Is training/support available?

Absolutely. On this website we have videos and instruction sheets available for whenever you have questions or want clarification. You can also call our shop at 800-245-5283 Monday through Friday from 6:30am – 5:00pm (PST) to speak with a live person for assistance. We will also be offering webinars in the near future – call and ask us when one will be held on your topic of interest. Technical support is also available by email through either Alan Hamu at alanhamu@dcddigital.com or through Shilo Ammons at shilo@eino-diamondchase.com.

11. Are specific tools required?

Most tools used are basic tools you can get from any hardware store: ratchet, sockets, and allen wrenches. We do make and offer a wheel insertion tool for the double locking nylon system and a pin installation kit for the bolts on the draw bar frame for ease of use. We also offer tool kits for your convenience.

12. Why should I choose Diamond Chase frames?

The most important reasons to choose Eino Products/Diamond Chase are our unsurpassed customer service and product quality. We stand 100% behind our product and service. Additionally our diverse line of frames, the most complete in the industry, is designed to specifically accommodate all printing applications. We are willing to meet any custom requirement. Our high engineering standards insure that all our frames are designed and built for maximum strength and high tension levels. We offer a wide selection of fabric-to-frame locking systems. We carry a well-stocked inventory providing for quick lead times. With four versatile frame types to choose from, only Eino Products/Diamond Chase provides comprehensive service for the printed circuit, commercial, and textile industries.

13. Where are Diamond Chase frames made?

All of the Diamond Chase frames and products are Made in the USA in our production facility in Azusa, California.