Mimaki launches first DTF printer

Manufacturer of print hardware, Mimaki, has launched its first direct-to-film (DTF) printer with the announcement being made at its Global Innovation Days event.

Aimed at the decorated apparel segment, the TxF150-75 direct-to-film inkjet printer will make its EMEA debut at Printwear and Promotion LIVE! next week from February 26th to 28th.

Direct-to-film printing is completed by a heat-based transfer method and is used to produce merchandise, sportswear, and other promotional textile applications.

A design is printed directly onto a transfer film, which is then sprinkled with hot-melt powder and heated and dried. Once this process is complete, the transfer sheet can be applied to the fabric using a heat press.

Designed around Mimaki’s 150 Series, the new TxF150-75 has a built-in circulation system and degassed ink pack design to prevent common DTF issues, and Core Technologies such as a nozzle check unit and nozzle recovery system.

With the launch being Mimaki’s first step into the apparel decoration sector, the manufacturer has also produced its own range of water-based pigment inks (PHT50) especially for this solution.

As of March 2023, these inks are OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT certified in line with Mimaki’s own sustainability pledges.

Compared to sublimation heat transfer printing, Mimaki describes DTF as “much more versatile” when it comes to materials as you can use more than just polyester and polyester-blended materials.

The TxF150-75 is provided with Mimaki’s RasterLink7 RIP software and will be distributed in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services once commercially available from April 2023.

“Apparel decoration is a hugely popular and dynamic sector, one which we are already operating in with our other textile technologies. However, we could see the impact DTF technology has had on the industry in recent years, with its significant advantages over existing technologies,” Mark Sollman, senior product manager EMEA of Mimaki Europe, says.

“Namely, DTF avoids the time intensive process of plate creation in screen printing and the required weeding in traditional vinyl heat transfer. The technology can also create vibrant designs with its full colour printing capabilities.”

Sollman adds: “We’re excited to bring a solution to the market that is designed for those already active in the decorated apparel sector and those looking to enter it, which excels in usability, reliability, and quality.”

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