Step-by-Step Maintenance Tips for ATMA Screen Printing Machines

Running a printing workshop based in India? Maintaining your ATMA Screen Printing Machine is one of the best ways you can increase print quality, minimize downtime and extend the life of your machine. We work closely with clients every day that depend on ATMA technology to get the job done and these maintenance tips all come from hard-earned shop-floor experience. No matter if you are working with an ATMA printer for electronics, textiles, labels or industrial, this blog to help you upkeep your equipment like a pro.

1. Start With Daily Cleaning – Your Machine’s First Line of Defense

The easiest way to increase the life of your ATMA screen printing machine India is simple: clean it daily. Ink residue, dust, and solvents build up quickly around the squeegee, print head, and frame clamps. Wipe these areas after every printing cycle using lint-free cloth and approved cleaning solutions.

Pro Tip by Sunstar Graphics: Never use harsh chemical cleaners. They damage scraper blades and reduce printing precision.

2. Lubricate Moving Parts Weekly

Your machine’s accuracy depends on smooth mechanical motion. Apply lubrication to rails, bearings, and mechanical joints once a week.

Why this matters:

• Reduces friction

• Prevents wear & tear

• Improves registration accuracy

  
  

A well-lubricated ATMA screen printing machine also consumes less power because the movement is smoother & more efficient.

3. Inspect Squeegee & Flood Bar Conditions

A worn-out squeegee is one of the biggest reasons behind patchy prints. Look for cracks, bends, or hardened edges. Replace them immediately if you notice uneven pressure.

Sunstar Graphics Tip: Rotate squeegees regularly to ensure even wear.

4. Check Pneumatic & Electrical Components

ATMA machines rely heavily on pneumatic pressure and stable current for smooth operation.Every 10–15 days, check:

• Air pressure levels

• Air filters

• Power cables

• Control panel signals

If you observe air leakage or unstable current, fix it right away to prevent downtime.

5. Calibrate Print Head Alignment Monthly

Over time, the print head may shift due to vibration or continuous usage. This affects precision. Monthly calibration ensures sharper edges, consistent ink deposit, and improved output quality.

For accuracy, use the machine’s built-in calibration settings or ask a Sunstar Graphics technician for professional alignment.

6. Maintain Screens & Frames Carefully

Even the best ATMA Printing Machine can deliver poor results if your screens aren’t maintained well.

• Wash screens after every production cycle

• Use mesh safely—avoid strong scrubbing

• Dry screens completely before reuse

Proper screen care equals consistent results and longer machine life.

7. Schedule Professional Servicing Every 6 Months

Many issues develop slowly and aren’t visible to the operator. That’s why a thorough half-yearly check-up by experienced technicians (like our team at Sunstar Graphics) is essential.

Professional servicing covers:

• Deep cleaning

• Bearing inspection

• Motor health check

• Sensor accuracy testing

• Safety mechanism testing

This not only maintains efficiency but also helps your machine stay compliant with safety and quality standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often should I service an ATMA screen printing machine?

A professional service every 6 months is recommended, even if your machine seems to be working smoothly.

2. What causes uneven printing on ATMA machines?

Common reasons include worn-out squeegees, poor screen tension, misalignment, and ink residue buildup.

3. Can regular lubrication improve machine speed?

Yes! Lubricating rails and bearings reduces friction, increasing print smoothness and speed.

4. Do these tips apply to all ATMA models?

Absolutely. Whether you’re using semi-automatic or fully automatic ATMA printers, these maintenance steps work universally.