Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Pictaflex process work?

The process is simple to use and requires inkjet printing on to 3D Thermoforming film with Visi-Sub 3D patented ink.

Once the printed film is dry, it is then placed on top of the substrate within the vacuum press. Once the machine is closed, the sublimation imaging takes around 2.5 minutes dependent on the substrate. Upon completion, the film is pulled from around the product leaving a full colour, photographic quality image that is permanently fixed within the microstructure of the substrate.

What substrate surfaces can I image?

Currently we only stock smartphone cases but you can image just about any heat resistant material imaginable. As long as they are coated with a low temperature sublimation coating if plastic or standard sublimation coating for products that have high heat resistance, ( www.digicoat.com ) you can image a vast array of products made out of plastic, acrylic, glass, metal, wood, ceramics and even stone.

Can I use any phone covers with the Pictaflex system?

No, the Pictaflex covers are manufactured with a special heat resistant high grade plastic (first used on the space shuttle) that is resistant to warping and is engineered to fit the jigs perfectly. The cases are also subjected to 5 layers of patented sublimation coatings which are applied in a clinical clean room environment.

What phone models do you currently provide blank covers for?

Currently we stock the covers for the iPhone 4 & 4S, iPhone 3, Samsung Galaxy SII, and Blackberry Bold 9700 but we will be introducing several other models over the coming months.

Do I have to pay an expensive yearly license fee like your competitors charge?

No, you can buy the Sublideck products from a network of dealers without having to sign a license agreement. Our products work first time every time we have no need to tie customers into contracts.

Why do the resulting colours from your process appear so much richer and more vibrant than your competitors?

A combination of factors really that come together to produce industry leading results

• Our innovative film uses special barrier layers producing heavier ink loads resulting in extremely vibrant transfers
• Using standard inks at lower temperatures is often met with a range of problems including colours sublimating at different stages giving an uneven colour transfer and muted colours. Visi-Sub 3D patented inks are designed to work at temperatures as low as 140°C, ensuring they sublimate evenly across the temperature scale providing even colour saturation.
• Visi-Sub 3D Black features a reduced sublimation point and increased density, allowing for deeper richer blacks when transferred, without the need for extended cycle times.
• We spend a lot of time and attention profiling our inks to produce the best possible range of colours where as the competition carries out little if any.

Why are your 3D consumables and vacuum press so much cheaper than the competition?

We have chosen a different business model which aims to promote 3D sublimation as a viable process and open it up to more of the market.

By doing this, it enables more sublimators to enter a market that was a previously price prohibitive to all but the largest companies. Instead of raking a relatively small number of customers for high set up costs, high ongoing consumable costs and license fees, the Pictaflex model was developed for volume sales to take a small margin off of a larger number of clients.

Will your 3D process warp the images on the sides of complex surfaces like your competition?

On the edges of the complex products like the iPhone 4 cases, the film can sometimes stretch and cause image distortion as the film heats up and stretches in our competitors’ process.

Sublideck and AkzoNobel have spent a lot of research time and energy to minimise this effect by:

• Utilising our film’s anti-pop technology along with an optimal micron thickness. This allows the film to stretch just the right amount thereby avoiding pop wastage, creep smearing and film creasing.
• The design of the Pictaflex vacuum press to hold and release the 3D film in a unique way instead of just laying the film on top layering.

Can I use my own 3D Film?

Again the whole process is designed to work together, substituting another film will deliver inferior imaged product and could damage the unit.

What is my cost per piece to produce a case?

Your cost to produce a case is approximately £5.50 that includes film, ink & case. For larger volumes discounts may apply.

How long does it take to press a phone case?

The entire process once warmed up takes 2 minutes 30 seconds.

Can I use any sublimation inks?

No, The patented Visi Sub 3D inks are a unique set of low temperature sublimation inks that have been profiled to deliver accurate colour and density with the system. Substituting the inks for other brands will certainly result in the inks not transferring due to their high firing characteristics.

I want to decorate my own unique part can this be done?

Yes, please contact us for more information and we will assist you in developing your parts in the right way so they are suitable for use with the 3D process.

Why do I need support jigs?

Support jigs are used to support the part while pressure is being applied preventing any deformity of the case.

I would like to produce multiple parts of the same design do you have larger machines available?

Please contact us directly for further information.

What size do I need to make my images to fit the various cases?

Please contact us and we will provide a style and design sheet for each case.

What are the power requirements of the Pictaflex press?

230v 50-60hz 10 amps