On DTF printing process and transfer technology

The main point behind DTF printing is very simple - print on film and transfer it to the selected fabric with a hot press. This new technology has received extensive attention overseas because of its flexibility in printing on almost all possible fabrics or leather. Whether it is cotton, silk, polyester, synthetic fabric, leather or synthetic leather, there is no difference - the DTF printing process can be applied to all these products.

The shift to DTF technology is very clear and direct. Whether you are currently engaged in screen printing T-shirt process, DTG printing process, or even as a new business, DTF printing technology does not require a large amount of initial investment.

The basic materials for running the DTF printing process include:

Films

In the DTF printing process PET films are used as the primary substrate – We shall refer these films as DTF Transfer Films, which is different as compared to those use in screen printing. With a thickness of about 0.75mm, DTF Transfer Films have better transfer characteristics as compared to other kinds of film. In addition, the films can be classified based on their “peeling” type – Hot peel or cold peel.

Software

The software used is also crucial in the process of DTF printing. Print characteristics, ink colour performance, and final print performance on the fabric/t-shirt after the transfers are greatly influenced by the software used in the printing process. That being said, a specialised RIP software is required such that it can handle CMYK and White colours. Colour profiling, ink levels, drop sizes and other factors contributing to an optimized print result are all governed by the DTF RIP Software.

Adhesive Powder

The DTF printing process requires the use of an adhesive powder. This substance will melt using high heat and will act as glue that binds the coloured pigments in the prints onto the fabric/t-shirt.

DTF Printing Inks

DTF printing inks are a specially designed water-based pigment inks that are available in Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, and White Colours. A layer of White ink is a special component that is required between the adhesive powder and coloured inks.

Automatic Powder Distributor / Curing Machine

The powder distributor is used in the roll-to-roll DTF solution. The application will evenly distribute and remove excess powder before the film is transferred onto the curing machine. The curing machine is an industrial conveyor belt oven that cures the adhesive powder onto the film.

Heat-press Machine

A heat-press machine is mainly used to transfer the printed image onto the film onto the fabric or t-shirt. When using a roll-to-roll printer, it is recommended that you use a more efficient automatic heat-press machine that that has 2 press stations.

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