Epson will unveil a brand new direct-to garment (DTG), or Direct-to Garment, printer at Fespa Global Print Expo later this month in Munich.
The F2200 has been deemed suitable for small businesses or start-ups that require high levels of accuracy and flexibility, as well as fast turnaround times.
Epson has confirmed that the machine is the successor of the SureColor F2100. Printweek the design is “clean sheet” rather than an upgrade, and will deliver “significant improvements” in many areas for customers.
Designed to produce complex designs on a variety of garments, the SureColor F2200 uses Epson’s advanced PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead technology to provide faster printing and data processing speeds, resulting in a productivity increase of up to 25% over its predecessor [for light garments, and 15% for darker garments], while maintaining “extremely high print quality”.
Epson says that the GarmentCreator2 included software allows for easy installation in smaller spaces.
It has a transparent lid, an internal light and a 4.3 inch touchscreen that makes it simple to operate.
The F2200 has automatic carriage height adjustments that are said to be stable and require minimal user adjustment. The platen is easily removable and can be attached and removed by hand. This makes it easy for the user to adjust the printer when printing different garments.
The GarmentCreator2 software features faster data processing well as 600dpi resolution, to deliver “exceptional colour output”.
“Although the DTG market has become challenging, due to DTFilm technology, this development offers new and medium-volume businesses a highly cost-effective and flexible option that delivers outstanding quality and can easily be scaled to meet future needs,” said Heather Kendle, manager of product management, commercial and industrial at Epson Europe.
Instead of cartridges, the F2200 uses UltraChrome® DG2 ink bags. This 800ml pouch (previously a 600ml one) means fewer changes and less waste, both in terms of weight and space, than cartridges.
Epson’s DG2 ink also reduces bleed between yellow and black, which is important for applications such as light t-shirts, and maintains colour consistency with DG ink.
The F2200 is scheduled to ship in Europe from July and will come as a package that includes consumables, warranty and service, and support.
Epson hasn’t yet revealed the price of this printer. Printweek to “expect the printer to be competitively priced with low running costs providing exceptional value for money”.
The variety of goods on display on Epson’s Fespa stand will demonstrate the flexible applications of the manufacturer’s digital printer range.
Items included in the company’s ‘personalisation zone’ at Fespa, will range from custom-designed t-shirts, photos, and canvas applications to bespoke mugs, notebooks, phone cases, magnets, coasters, and water bottles.
On the other side of the stand, you will find skis, boards, deckchairs, towels and a jet ski that is colourfully wrapped, as well as clothes and fabrics by fashion designers.
“Fespa this year is all about demonstrating how Epson digital printing technology can produce beautiful, bespoke products that enhance our lives,” said Kendle.
“Many small and medium sized businesses are using Epson’s digital printing technology to produce and retail uniquely designed, highly desirable, personalised items, and we will be showing many fine examples of these items on our stand.
“We will also demonstrate how on-demand digital direct-to-textile printing technology can combine with recycled materials and more eco-friendly inks, using much less water compared with analogue methods, to produce far more sustainable products.”
Munich-bound: Printweek Will be producing the Fespa Daily The upcoming Fespa Global Print Expo will be held in Munich, Germany from 23-26th May. Fespa related matters can be discussed at [email protected].