SDL Atlas D398A Miniature Tenter Frame Dryer & Steam Setting Machine
| Brand | SDL Atlas |
|---|---|
| Origin | Guangdong, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Manufacturer |
| Origin Category | Domestic |
| Model | D398A |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The SDL Atlas D398A Miniature Tenter Frame Dryer & Steam Setting Machine is an engineered benchtop system designed for precise thermal and steam-based finishing of textile specimens under controlled laboratory conditions. It operates on the principle of simultaneous mechanical tensioning (via tenter frame clamping) and thermally regulated exposure—enabling reproducible simulation of industrial drying, heat-setting, and steam fixation processes. Unlike conventional cabinet dryers, the D398A integrates a true saturated steam environment (102 °C ±2 °C) and high-temperature steam setting (100–250 °C), allowing researchers and quality assurance labs to decouple thermal effects from mechanical deformation. Its compact footprint and modular configuration support integration into dyeing & printing test workflows compliant with ISO 105-X12, AATCC Test Method 135, and GB/T 8629—making it suitable for R&D validation, process optimization, and pre-production batch qualification in textile chemistry and colorfastness laboratories.
Key Features
- Adjustable thermal range: 20 °C to 250 °C for drying, baking, and thermofixation; independent saturated steam mode at 102 °C ±2 °C; high-temperature steam setting up to 250 °C
- Tenter-frame clamping system with automatic pin-chain drive, ensuring uniform lateral tension across specimen width during thermal exposure
- Precisely programmable dwell time: 10 seconds to 6 minutes, with digital timer and repeat-cycle capability
- Inclined top plate design prevents condensate drip onto samples; auxiliary heating at inlet cutout minimizes cold-spot formation at steam entry zone
- Optional humidity control module with integrated steam generator (10–100% saturation output), enabling controlled relative humidity (RH) profiles during treatment
- Benchtop architecture optimized for intermittent operation; compatible with pneumatic padder units (e.g., SDL Atlas M225) for seamless wet-to-dry process simulation
- Stainless steel chamber construction with insulated double-wall housing for thermal stability and operator safety
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The D398A accommodates flat textile specimens up to 350 mm × 400 mm, supporting woven, knitted, nonwoven, and coated substrates—including polyester, nylon, cotton, blends, and functional finishes. Its tenter frame geometry replicates industrial stenter line mechanics without edge distortion, critical for dimensional stability testing (ISO 2077, ASTM D3776). All thermal and steam cycles are traceable via onboard logging (time-stamped temperature/steam pressure records), supporting GLP-compliant documentation. The system meets CE machinery directive requirements (2006/42/EC) and incorporates safety interlocks for door-open steam cutoff and overtemperature shutdown. When operated with calibrated reference thermocouples and validated steam probes, data generated satisfies audit requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited textile testing laboratories.
Software & Data Management
While the base D398A operates via intuitive front-panel controls (digital display, rotary encoder, and function keys), optional RS-485 or USB interface enables connection to SDL Atlas LabManager™ software suite. This platform supports remote parameter scheduling, real-time temperature/steam pressure trending, automated report generation (PDF/CSV), and electronic signature capture per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 guidelines. Audit trails record all user actions—including setpoint changes, cycle starts/stops, and calibration events—with immutable timestamps. Data export complies with LIMS integration protocols (ASTM E1482, ISO 15141), facilitating traceability from raw material batch to final fastness rating.
Applications
- Thermofixation of disperse dyes on polyester and PTT fibers
- Steam fixation of reactive dyes on cellulosic substrates (e.g., cotton, lyocell)
- Evaluation of crease recovery, dimensional stability, and shrinkage behavior post-heat treatment
- Accelerated aging studies for flame-retardant and antimicrobial finishes
- Validation of new binder systems in pigment printing processes
- Correlation of lab-scale steam settings with full-width stenter line parameters (via DoE-driven scaling models)
FAQ
What is the maximum sample size supported by the D398A?
The unit accepts specimens up to 350 mm wide × 400 mm long, clamped uniformly along both edges using stainless steel tenter pins.
Can the D398A operate without steam generation?
Yes—it functions as a forced-convection hot-air dryer across the full 20–250 °C range; steam modes are selectable and independent.
Is third-party calibration support available?
SDL Atlas provides NIST-traceable calibration certificates for temperature and steam pressure sensors; field verification kits and annual service contracts are offered globally.
How does the inclined top plate improve test repeatability?
By eliminating condensate drip onto specimens, it prevents localized cooling, staining, or uneven fixation—critical for color uniformity and fastness assessment.
Does the system meet regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical textile packaging validation?
When configured with full data logging, electronic signatures, and audit trail functionality, the D398A supports GMP-aligned validation of sterilization-compatible fabric treatments per ISO 11607 and USP .
