Getting Your MHM Press Right With EFI Reggiani Infrared Tubes
If you’re running an MHM press, you already know that the drying stage is where the magic happens—or where things go sideways. There’s nothing worse than pulling a run only to find ink bleed or patchy curing because your heating tubes aren’t hitting the mark. You need a replacement that just works. No fuss, no blowing fuses, and definitely no warping your frame. The Power Stuff We build our tubes to mirror the exact voltage and wattage of the original OEM units. These high-wattage shortwave tubes pack a serious punch in a tiny space, which is exactly what you want so the ink sets the second the fabric moves through. But here’s a heads-up: double-check your power supply. If you push the wattage too high without checking your wiring, you’re basically asking for a burnout right in the middle of a peak production run. And nobody wants that phone call on a Friday afternoon. Quartz and Coatings We use high-purity quartz for the core, but the real secret is in the coating. We shift the infrared spectrum so the heat actually sinks into the ink layer. It’s the difference between a deep, permanent cure and just scorching the surface. Plus, the connectors are built to the same tolerances as the originals. You can just wire them into your existing sockets and get back to work. One quick tip:**Keep the glass spotless.**A single fingerprint or a smudge of oil creates a hot spot. That’s how tubes crack. Handle them with care. Making it Work in Your Shop The best part? These are drop-in replacements. Your timing and belt speeds don’t need to change because the thermal profile stays the same. Just keep an eye on your exhaust. Shortwave heat puts a lot of pressure on your ventilation. If the air isn’t moving, the ambient heat builds up and eats away at the tube ends, shortening their life. And while you’re at it, give your reflectors a scrub every few months. A dirty reflector kills your efficiency, no matter how fancy your tubes are.