To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
describe the influence that the mesh count has on the final printed product
outline the importance of correct screen tension
explain the different tensions required for screens of various mesh counts and grades
outline the degreasing or cleaning techniques that are employed prior to coating the screen
describe information that is contained in material safety data sheets (MSDS) for the emulsion being used
identify the work health and safety (WHS) requirements that need to be considered for exposure to UV light sources
identify the pollution and environmental issues that need to be considered when working with emulsions
outline the maintenance that is required for the automatic coating machine
describe two different emulsions used in screen printing and outline their characteristics, their shelf life and areas of use
discuss the preparation formula for one emulsion and its storage requirements
describe the need to have the correct illumination in the work area
discuss the influence that the length of run and ink or dye being used have on the coating technique, the number of coats of emulsion and the best method of coating the screen
outline the factors that are taken into consideration to determine the angle at which the coaters coat the screen
describe the appropriate position (horizontal or vertical) for drying the screen and the effect that each of these positions has on the way the emulsion dries
describe the effect of heat on the emulsion during the drying process and the function and use of a light integrator
describe the procedure for exposing the stencil and the effect that the position, angle and distance of the light source have on the exposure process
describe the importance of perfect contact between positive and screen during exposure
identify the effect that temperature, pressure and time taken have on the washing out process and wash-out completion
identify the ideal position of the screen for drying to prevent scum and streaking and the impact of post-curing on the stencil
describe information obtained from the MSDS for this particular blockout
identify the bearing of ink to be used on a particular stencil and the type of stencil on the type of blockout
name the preventive measures that can be taken to minimise pinholes
explain the importance of taping the edge of the frame and the squeegee edge, and the means used to identify the screen at a later date
identify required manuals, safety and other documentation and briefly outline the relevant information in each source
explain where you might find other relevant sources of information.