FAQ — Common Problems in Photoceramics Production

Professional Recommendations from MARKITON Specialists

Photoceramics production is a precise technological process that requires correct equipment settings and high-quality consumables. Even small deviations may cause image defects or decal deformation.

Below is a collection of the most common issues encountered by users — and professional solutions proven by MARKITON technologists.

1. Why is the image pale?

Main causes

  1. Low print density or incorrect color mode.
  2. Non-original or expired toner.
  3. Worn developer powder requiring replacement.
  4. Underfiring (low temperature or insufficient holding time).
  5. Excessive lacquer layer (when printing without lamination).

Solutions

  • Check print settings: High Density / Heavy Paper / Best Quality.
  • Use only MARKITON ceramic toner, which maintains high saturation during firing.
  • Replace the developer when saturation decreases.
  • Ensure the laminator is heated properly and pressure is even.
  • Measure kiln temperature with a pyrometer — actual temperature may differ.
  • Apply minor color-curve adjustments before printing.

2. Spots or dots appear on the image

Causes

  1. Dust or fibers on decal paper or lamination film.
  2. Toner residue on the printer drum/roller.
  3. Lacquer layer breaking or bubbles during drying.
  4. Overfiring, which burns out areas of the image.
  5. Moisture trapped under the decal.

Solutions

  • Clean the work surface, paper, and film with an antistatic cloth.
  • Run the printer’s Cleaning Mode.
  • Ensure lacquer/lamination is applied evenly.
  • Reduce firing temperature by 10–20°C.
  • Dry the product longer before firing.

3. Delamination after firing

Causes

  1. Decal paper absorbed moisture.
  2. High humidity in the workspace.

Solutions

  • Replace the decal paper with a fresh sheet.
  • Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 45%.

4. Cracks on the decal (“crazing”)

Causes

  1. Sudden temperature change inside the kiln.
  2. Thick lacquer or lamination layer.
  3. Insufficient drying before firing.
  4. Uneven heating field inside the kiln.

Solutions

  • Heat gradually — avoid rapid temperature rise.
  • Apply a thin, even lamination layer.
  • Dry the decal on the product at least 12 hours before firing.
  • Check kiln elements and ensure uniform heat distribution.

5. Toner does not adhere to tile

Causes

  1. Decal or lamination paper without flux coating.
  2. Incorrect firing temperature.

Solutions

  • Use fluxed decal paper.
  • Use fluxed lacquer when required.
  • Increase firing temperature by 10–20°C.

6. Decal shifts, stretches, or wrinkles

Causes

  1. Decal not fully dried.
  2. Too long in the water during transfer.
  3. Laminator not fully heated.
  4. Deformation during manual transfer.

Solutions

  • Reduce soaking time.
  • Dry the product for 12 hours before firing.
  • Verify laminator roller temperature.
  • Apply decal gently, avoiding distortions.

7. Image burns out or becomes reddish

Causes

  1. Excessive kiln temperature.
  2. Off-brand toner incompatible with firing temperature.
  3. Incorrect color curve.

Solutions

  • Lower firing temperature by 20–30°C.
  • Use MARKITON LX toner, which maintains color at high temperatures.
  • Calibrate the ICC color profile.

8. Contours become blurred

Causes

  1. Thick lacquer or lamination layer.
  2. Overheated laminator.
  3. Insufficient drying.
  4. Overfiring.

Solutions

  • Apply a thin coating.
  • Reduce laminator temperature.
  • Follow recommended firing time precisely.

9. Glass or porcelain cracks in the kiln

Causes

  1. Material not suitable for high-temperature firing.
  2. Rapid heating or cooling.
  3. Poor-quality blanks.
  4. Uneven temperature distribution in the kiln.

Solutions

  • Use only ceramics rated for firing up to 1200°C.
  • Heat slowly, cool inside the kiln.
  • Avoid low-quality tiles.
  • Use a kiln with balanced heating elements.

10. Laminated decal forms bubbles

Causes

  1. Moisture trapped under layers.
  2. Laminator not fully heated.
  3. Wrong lamination film used.

Solutions

  • Dry decal before lamination.
  • Preheat laminator for 10–15 minutes.
  • Use original MARKITON lamination paper and films.
 

Conclusion

Photoceramics production is a precise process, and the final quality depends on every step: printing, lamination, transferring, and firing.

MARKITON provides a full turnkey solution: ceramic printers, toners, decal papers, developers, laminators, kilns, and professional support.

If you encounter any unusual issue — we are always ready to help.

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