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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Prepare work area
  2. Prepare screen
  3. Select direct emulsion
  4. Process material
  5. Dry stencil
  6. Block out screen
  7. Store screen

Knowledge Evidence

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

outline the influence that mesh count has on the final printed product

identify the need to have a correctly tensioned screen and the effect of screen tension on screens of various mesh count or grades

identify the degreasing or cleaning techniques that are employed prior to coating the screen

describe the information that is contained in the material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the emulsion

identify pollution and environmental issues that need to be considered when working with emulsions, including the need to work in a safelight area

describe maintenance that is required on the direct projection camera

discuss the kinds of high sensitivity emulsion that are available and state their characteristics, lifespans and areas of use

outline the preparation method for the emulsion used

describe the influence that the length of run and ink used have on the coating technique

discuss the number of coats of emulsion necessary and the best method of coating the screen

identify the best position (horizontal or vertical) for drying the screen to prevent scum and streaking

describe the effect of heat on the emulsion during the drying process

outline the health and safety concerns when exposing the screen

describe the operating features of the direct projection camera

describe the best position on the frame, the registration requirements and the scanning speed and exposure time

summarise inputting information into the computer, manipulation of the image and how to interpret output information

describe the effect of temperature, pressure and period of washing on the emulsion, as well as determining when washing out is complete

describe the post-curing effect on the stencil

outline the main information in the MSDS for a particular blockout

identify the correct ink and stencil for the type of blockout to be used

identify preventive measures required to minimise pinholes

describe the means by which a screen can be identified at a later date

identify required manuals, safety and other documentation and briefly outline the relevant information in each source.