Direct-To-Film Technology – Shaking Things Up In Digital Textile Printing

NAGANO, Japan — July 13, 2023 — In the printing industry, direct-to-film technology is having a transformative impact on the apparel decoration space. The process allows for vibrant, dynamic and full-colour designs to be printed on clothing in a quick, affordable way. Digital print service providers can expand their textile offerings, reach new customers and, thanks to its versatility, print on a wider range of fabrics. Mimaki, as the textile industry grows, recognised the need for an innovative solution that would take the process to a new level. This was combined with the manufacturer support Mimaki is known for.

Direct-to-film printing vs. screening

Direct-to-film is a method of printing digitally directly on a special sheet of transfer film. The hot-melt is then heated and applied to the fabric. After the transfer sheet has been dried and cured, it can then be heat-pressed on a wide range of fabrics. It is ideal for creating premium transfers for customized merchandise, sportswear and other promotional applications in the textile industry. Screen printing requires a lot more work than traditional screen-printing methods. Not only this, but the process does not meet direct-to-film’s ability to produce vivid colours and quality details such as shapes, lettering, and motifs often sought after in the promotional and merchandising space for bespoke textiles.

Why DTF?

Mimaki’s move into direct to film technology is a thrilling venture into a new segment. Why did Mimaki choose this route? We knew that we could provide a leading solution to the market with our core technologies, and the technical expertise of our digital printers. There is a need in the market for a reliable, stable direct-to-film solution. With a process this complex, a partner that can deliver dependable support is essential. Mimaki’s reputation is synonymous with support, which is what direct-to-film customers can expect every step of the way.

The Mimaki TxF150-75″

Mimaki’s first direct-to-film inkjet printer is the TxF150-75, a fitting extension to the 150 series, with a maximum printing width of 80cm. Offering a stable printing plotter, the model’s built-in ink circulation system and degassed ink pack are resolutions to common direct-to-film challenges such as poor ink ejection and white ink clogging. The new printer is equipped with core Mimaki functions such as the NRS system (Nozzle Recovery System), NCU unit (Nozzle check unit) and other features that ensure stable print production. Operating in harmony with the textile printer itself is Mimaki’s ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX® certified water-based pigment textile inks, formulated especially for the TxF150-75. Coupled with Mimaki’s RasterLink7 RIP software, users are offered end-to-end oversight and efficiency from creative design to final product.

In addition, and in line with Mimaki’s collaborative approach to meeting customer needs, Adkins has developed an 80cm wide powder shaker cure unit to complete this ‘A brand’ direct-to-film Printing solution. The 80cm-wide printer and postprocessing unit allows customers to print larger garments, with less waste, faster production times and lower costs.

The Mimaki TxF15075 solution is an exciting solution for Mimaki clients who are in the decorated apparel industry or looking for a solution that will help them enter the digital textile market.

Post: July 13, 2020

Source: Mimaki Engineering Co. Ltd.