Hydro dipping is a fun and unique way to personalize just about any object you want. As long as the item can be submerged in water, and painted using a traditional method, it can be hydro-dipped. There is a six-step process to hydro dipping. Applying an activator to the hydro dip film is one of the steps in this process, and perhaps the most important step. However, many people want to know if you can hydro-dip an object while skipping the step of applying the activator. Let’s find out if you can.
In this article, we are going to take a closer look at what activator is, and what it is made from. We will also gain a better understanding of why it is so important that you do not skip the step of applying an activator to the hydro-dip film when you are hydro-dipping an object. I will also include a section discussing the two types of activators used for hydro dipping. For your safety, I am also going to include a few safety tips for you to follow when you are applying hydrographic.
What Is an Activator?
An activator is a chemical that is commonly made from xylene, isobutanol, butyl, methyl acetate, and methyl ethyl ketone. You apply the activator to the hydro dip film that is floating on the surface of the water in your dipping tank. The chemicals in the activator will react with the hydro-dipping film, liquefying the Ink in the film. The tension that is created by the hydro dip film floating on the surface of the water allows the pattern to wrap around your object.
Most activators can be purchased through a local retailer or bought online. However, those who are more experienced with the process of hydro dipping may prefer to make their activator at home. Once you have properly prepared your object and the ink on the hydro dip film is liquefied, you can proceed with applying the hydrographic to your object. The liquefied film will then wrap around the object, creating a one-of-a-kind design that is specifically unique to you and your personality.
Why Is Applying an Activator Important?
Whether you are a beginner or you have been hydro dipping for years, there is a 6 step process you should follow to ensure that your item turns out correctly. One of the steps in this process is the application of an activator to the hydro dip film that is floating on the surface of the water in your dipping tank. If you do not apply the aerosol to the film, it will not liquefy. Your pattern will not completely cover your item if the ink in the hydro dip film does not liquefy.
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What Are the Types of Activators?
When it comes to activators, there are two forms. These two forms are aerosol activators and liquid activators. Aerosol activators are contained within a spray can, just like spray paint, air fresheners, or disinfectant spray. They emit a fine mist that you spray over the hydro dip film. Once the activator reacts with the hydro dip film, the film is then liquefied, and your item is ready to be dipped. Because they react much slower than liquid activators, giving you more time to get your object, aerosol activators are recommended for those who are new to hydro dipping.
The second form of activator comes in a liquid form. Similar to the process of applying an aerosol activator, the liquid activator is poured directly onto the hydro dip film when you are ready to dip your object. However, there is one caveat to using a liquid activator. Because it reacts so quickly with the hydro dip film, it does not provide you with nearly as much time for dipping as an aerosol activator. For this reason, you shouldn’t use a liquid activator unless you are more experienced with applying hydrographics. Trust me when I say that this activator is not for beginners.
What Are Some Safety Tips For Using Activators?
While you are applying hydrographics to your item, it is of the utmost importance that you remember to follow a few safety guidelines to prevent serious harm to your body. If you are hydro dipping at home or in a closed area, you should be certain that the area is well-ventilated. The fumes that are emitted from aerosol activators can cause serious harm to the skin, the eyes, and the throat. Perhaps a better idea for hydro dipping at home would be to do it outside. By doing this, you can significantly reduce the number of fumes that you are breathing into your body, or coming into contact with your skin.
Ensuring that you are wearing eye protection while you are hydro dipping is essential to your safety, and protecting your eyesight. Droplets of liquid activator could accidentally splash upwards, causing them to come into contact with your face and eyes. Aerosol activators emit fumes into the air, which also have the possibility of going into your eyes. In both cases, the chemicals that make up these activators could cause serious injury to your eyes, such as irritation or blurred vision. Extreme cases can lead to blindness. Protect your eyes. Use goggles at all times when you are applying hydrographics.
Burns, skin irritation, or other injuries are also possible when you are hydro dipping. The chemicals that make up the activator can cause serious harm to your skin. You should always wear long sleeves while you are applying hydrographic. Protect your hands at all times while you are hydro dipping by wearing rubber gloves. A rubber apron to protect the front of your body is also a good idea. Many people fail to realize that the chemicals involved in hydro dipping can cause serious injury or harm. Keep your protective equipment handy, and always wear it while you are hydro dipping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while hydro dipping can be a fun experience, your results will be disappointing if you do not use an activator during the process. Activators come in two forms, which are aerosol activators and liquid activators. Aerosol activators react more slowly with the hydro dip film and are highly recommended for those who are new to hydro dipping. The liquid activator reacts much more quickly with the film, giving you much less time to complete the dipping process. This activator is mainly used by more experienced dippers.
You should always remember to follow a few simple safety guidelines while you are hydro dipping. Applying hydrographic should never be done in a closed area that is not well-ventilated. The fumes can cause serious harm to your body. You should also wear safety goggles wow you are hydro dipping to prevent serious injury to your eyes. Long sleeves, rubber gloves, and rubber aprons are also essential to protecting your body while you are hydro dipping. Activators can cause irritation, burns, or other injuries to your skin.
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