TheMagicTouch in the UK and Ireland, under their DTFMagic brand, has an additional printer option within its DTF (Direct to Film) transfer portfolio with the introduction of the new Mutoh/STS VJ-628D printer.
The 630mm wide compact desktop printer, manufactured by Mutoh in Japan, is based on Mutoh’s proven Valuejet 628 8-channel printer chassis and Epson industrial print head. The solution offered is a global collaboration with leading ink manufacturers STS, which has configured the best entry-level option for those looking to investigate the many opportunities DTF transfer technology offers.
Commenting is managing director, Jim Nicol. “Having considered over the past 12 months the great response and uptake of DTF technology, combined with the success of those now using the process in production environments, we must ensure we can offer the right solution for specific customer needs.
“The existing DTF600 printer is truly fantastic and offers real transfer production capabilities up to 15 sqm per hour. However, we strongly feel the size and space requirement is restrictive for many potential users. This new desktop option is perfect despite the slower production speed”.
The VJ-628D printer fits onto an office table or rolling stand option and prints directly to the coated PET film.
The printed image then has a powder adhesive applied using an automatic “Shake and Bake” unit. Alternatively, for auto cut-sheet or roll-to-sheet prints, the film can be cured at up to 95°C in a unique desktop curing oven.
Additionally, DTF works equally well on white or dark textiles. It allows users to choose a matt or gloss finish whilst requiring no pre-treatment and no cutting or weeding. It creates crisp and defined edges and images, does not require advanced technical printing knowledge, and produces less waste.
Florida-based STS has manufactured inks for over 20 years. It offers DTF inks with elasticity and durability onto most garments and textiles; regardless of composition or colour. Supply of the CMYK and White inks is via bulk bag options and are all fully certified.
The printer is driven by bespoke RIP software. This ensures fast processing speeds, enhanced printing-while-ripping and user-defined custom cut-line names and colours. The “pre-production cost per transfer” feature is also useful, as the user can price each transfer to an exact cost. A good example is the creation of 24 x 60mm transfers in just over six minutes at a cost of less than 4p each and applied in this case to a black pique polo shirt.
The expected arrival of stock in the UK is mid-January.
In the meantime, demonstrations of the system are available via Zoom or in person at the Dunstable showroom. Printed samples and transfers are also available for evaluation. All pricing is inclusive of delivery, installation and training combined with a one-year warranty. For further details please contact sales@themagictouch.co.uk or click here.
