back clamps

Also known as Rear Clamps, these are used to hold the screen in place on a screen printing press, located at the back of the print head. They work in conjunction with front clamps to stabilise the screen, ensuring accurate registration and consistent print placement across multiple garments.

In the custom garment printing industry, back clamps play a critical role in maintaining print quality, particularly for repeat runs and bulk orders commonly produced in Australia.

Purpose of Back Clamps in Screen Printing

Screen Stability

Back clamps prevent unwanted screen movement during the printing process. This stability is essential for maintaining sharp edges and consistent ink coverage.

Accurate Registration

By securing the screen firmly, back clamps help align the artwork correctly on each garment, reducing misprints and material waste.

Types of Back Clamps

Manual Back Clamps

Manual back clamps are adjusted by hand and are commonly found on entry-level or manual screen printing presses. They offer reliable performance for small to medium production runs.

Spring-Loaded Back Clamps

Spring-loaded clamps automatically maintain tension and alignment, making them suitable for higher-volume printing and faster production speeds.

Pneumatic Back Clamps

Pneumatic back clamps are used in automatic presses and provide precise, consistent pressure. These are ideal for large-scale commercial printing environments.

Benefits of Using Back Clamps

Consistent Print Results

Secure back clamps ensure each print is applied in the same position, which is crucial for professional-looking apparel.

Reduced Setup Errors

Properly adjusted clamps minimise screen drift, reducing the need for constant realignment during production.

Improved Production Efficiency

Stable screens allow printers to work faster with fewer interruptions, making bulk orders more efficient to produce.

Applications in Custom Garment Printing

Back clamps are essential for:

Screen printed t-shirts and hoodies
Workwear and uniform production
Multi-colour and layered prints
Large-volume commercial orders

They are especially important when printing on different garment sizes within the same run.

Practical Considerations When Using Back Clamps

Proper Adjustment

Back clamps must be adjusted to suit the screen frame size and press type. Over-tightening can damage frames, while loose clamps may cause movement.

Maintenance and Wear

Regular inspection ensures clamps maintain consistent pressure. Worn or damaged clamps should be replaced to avoid print inconsistencies.

Compatibility with Press Equipment

Not all clamps fit all presses. Choosing compatible back clamps ensures smooth operation and accurate results.

Back Clamps vs Other Screen Holding Methods

While alternative mounting systems exist, traditional back clamps remain widely used due to their reliability and ease of adjustment. They offer a balance between control and flexibility, particularly in screen printing setups.

Importance of Back Clamps in Professional Printing

Back clamps may seem like a minor component, but they play a major role in achieving high-quality screen prints. For Australian garment printers handling repeat and bulk orders, properly functioning back clamps help ensure consistency, efficiency, and professional results across every production run.

Back Clamps