Ricoh has made new retrofittable technology available for its Ri 1000 and Ri 2000 direct-to-garment (DTG) printers that will enable them to also output using the direct-to-film (DTF) method.
DTF technology allows the transfer of designs from preprinted files to garments without needing to preheat. For quick applications, designs can be stored on PET film as ready-to-go transfer film.
Ricoh stated that the process allows businesses to print on more fabrics than with DTG and is suitable for corporate branding such as backpacks and umbrellas.
Its high fastness at heavy duty washing cycles and high durability makes it suitable for polyester-based applications, such as workwear and sportswear, while its “very soft and flexible results” also meet the Oeko-Tex standard.
Ricoh claims that the ColorGate Textile Productionserver V21.1 software supports this new function. This program is capable of processing graphically rich artworks from creative applications. Ricoh bought ColorGate from ColorGate Inc. in 2018.
Ricoh Europe head of textile solutions, Graphic Communications Group, Axel Stuhlreiter said: “The innovative technology enhances the versatility and flexibility of Ricoh’s leading DTG printers.
“In just a few simple steps they can be transformed to enable DTF printing on a wide range of materials and deliver a greater variety of applications. The fast and simple process achieves highly creative results quickly and affordably.”
The DTF function is compatible with all hardware and requires no additional software.
Existing Ri 1000 and Ri 2000 users only need to update their bundled ColorGate software, and this will then enable their machines “to interchange seamlessly” between DTG and DTF printing.
For existing Ri 1000/Ri 2000 subscribers to ColorGate Value Pack, as well as new subscribers that have registered their software in the last 90 day, retrofitting will be free. However, all users must purchase adhesive powder (glue), and the film sheets necessary for DTF.