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Tint-Specific Equipment Tips

When it comes to selecting a tinting unit there are more considerations then just �will it heat up my dyes�?

First, will the unit run on a 110 volt outlet, or will it require an electrician to run a dedicated 220 volt line? How many moving or fallible parts are there? For instance, so units have eliminated even the on/off switch on all of its tinting units and incorporated it right into the thermostat control. How many pans can the machine hold? �All of our tinting equipment comes with quart size pans, or capacity is easily doubled by simply putting two pint size pans in the place of a quart pan�, says Daryl Squicciarini, vice president of OptiSource International.

Next you may want to check out the warranty for coverage periods and exclusions like leaks. Leaky tint units have been the plague of these machines forever.

Lastly, you may want to look into the heating medium of your new machine. Some machines use direct heat, eliminating the need for any fluids. Other pan units can be used with either water or heat transfer fluid, saving you hundreds of dollars each year.

Daryl Squicciarini, vice president of OptiSource International (www.1-800-optisource.com) provided his insights on tinting equipment�do you have any advice on your product category? If so, Email your thoughts to managing editor Amy Spiezio at spiezioaj@boucher1.com.