Issue link: https://nbm.uberflip.com/i/1479467
G R A P H I C S - P R O. C O M O C T O B E R 2 0 2 2 • G R A P H I C S P R O 1 9 Like the very early years of direct-to-gar- ment (DTG) printing, where some com- panies repurposed desktop and large-for- mat inkjet printers to create a cobbled-to- gether solution, the same is taking place today with DTF transfer printing to print onto DTF film. The main drawback of using modi- fied, non-purposed built equipment is that there is a possibility that no war- ranty or manufacturer support is offered. Oftentimes, people buying this type of equipment have found that it is very diffi- cult to get replacement parts such as print heads. In addition, the original equipment manufacturer most likely will not offer any type of repair service or technical While making a DTF transfer is a relatively simple process, proper application and equipment training can help determine how fast a business can start producing a sellable product. (All images courtesy All American Print Supply Co.) Find out if the printer you are buying has white ink management and, if offered, the terms and conditions of the warranty and tech support. support if an issue arises when using these modified printers. Another major drawback to using these reworked printers is that they are not intended for use with DTF inks, especially white ink. Titanium dioxide is a primary component of white ink that is used to produce an opaque bright white ink layer. However, if it is not properly managed, it can result in print quality defects and expensive print head replacements. Most printers that are purposely man- ufactured to use white ink, such as DTG printers, have ink circulation technol- ogy to maintain white ink stability. You should know if the printer you are buying has white ink management and, if offered, the terms and conditions of the warranty and tech support.