Heat Transfer Machines
Heat Press Machines for Garment Decorating and Heat Transfers
A heat press uses controlled heat, time and pressure to bond a design to fabric and other blanks. You can use one for heat transfer vinyl (HTV), DTF transfers, screen-printed plastisol transfers, sublimation, patches, rhinestones and more. RISO Screen & Digital Products carries the Stahls' Hotronix® line. These USA-built presses are known for even heat, accurate digital time, temperature and pressure readouts, and long warranties. We can help you pick the right press for your shop.
Which Hotronix Heat Press Is Right for You?
This is the best all-around press for most shops. When the timer ends, it opens on its own magnetic release, so you can multi-task without scorching garments. A digital pressure readout takes the guesswork out of setup, and the clamshell design fits a crowded workspace. The 16" x 20" platen handles adult tees, hoodies, full-front prints and jersey names and numbers. It doesn't need an air compressor. Shipping weight: 100 lbs.
The Hover Press is built on the Auto Open Clam, with one added feature: the upper platen can hover just above the garment without touching it. That makes it a good choice for curing DTG pretreatment and inks. Switch to Auto Open mode when you need to press transfers.
This press decorates caps on the front, sides and back. Its patented Dual Silicone Platen™ fits many hat sizes without swapping platens. Heated upper and lower platens are controlled separately, which helps cut down on creasing and scorching and makes it easy to apply patches and emblems.
These are swing-away presses with a high-resolution touchscreen that stores application settings, so every operator presses with the same settings every time. A swing-away design keeps heat off your hands while you lay out the garment. The Air Fusion is air-powered (air compressor not included) to reduce operator fatigue in high-volume shops.
Hotronix Dual Air Fusion IQ
This machine works like two 16" x 20" presses in one. The upper platen shuttles between two stations, so you can load one garment while the other is being pressed. It's built for production shops that want to double their output. It requires an air compressor.
The Caddie is a rolling, height-adjustable pedestal stand. It adds Threadability™, so you can load a shirt once and print the front, back and sides without re-laying it. It fits Hotronix Auto Open Clam, Hover Press and MAXX® Clam presses. It is not compatible with the Fusion IQ.
Clamshell vs. Swing-Away Heat Presses
Clamshell presses (like the Auto Open Clam) open like a book. They take up less space, they're quick to operate and they're great for tees, totes and other flat items. Swing-away presses (like the Fusion IQ) move the heat platen completely off to the side. That gives you a heat-free area for laying out garments, and it suits thicker items and precise placement. Many shops start with a clamshell and add a swing-away press as they grow.
What Can You Make with a Heat Press?
- Custom t-shirts, hoodies and team uniforms
- Names and numbers on jerseys
- DTF, HTV and screen-printed plastisol transfers
- Sublimation on polyester apparel and blanks
- Hats and caps (with a hat press)
- Tote bags, aprons and promotional products
- Patches, labels and emblems
Heat Press FAQ
What size heat press do I need?
A 16" x 20" platen is the most versatile size. It covers adult garments and large designs, and interchangeable lower platens can handle youth sizes, sleeves and pockets.
Do I need an air compressor?
Only for air-powered models such as the Air Fusion IQ and Dual Air Fusion IQ. The Auto Open Clam, Hover Press and 360 IQ Hat Press don't need one.
What electrical service does a heat press need?
Commercial heat presses draw a lot of power, so a dedicated circuit is recommended. Check the specifications on each product page before you install one.
What warranty comes with a Hotronix press?
Hotronix presses carry strong manufacturer warranties. For example, the Auto Open Clam is covered for life on the heating element, 5 years on the framework, 2 years on the circuit board and 1 year on parts and labor.
Can I use a heat press alongside screen printing?
Yes. Many screen printers use a heat press to apply plastisol transfers they've printed themselves, and a hover press can be used to cure inks.
Have a question about which heat press fits your work? Contact RISO Screen & Digital Products and our team will help you choose.
