There are a variety of hardware solutions available for digital textile printing. As you investigate solutions it is important to note that printer hardware can vary in a number of significant ways including print head type (thermal or piezo), drop delivery system (continuous or drop-on-demand), print resolution (dpi or drops per inch) and color number. Each of these features can have an impact on the quality of the final product. Keep in mind that piezo, drop-on-demand technology dominates current digital print options. These machines typically offer print arrangements of 6 to 12 colors and can print in a range of quality modes and speeds.

At [TC]² we are primarily working with a Sapphire I printer from Stork Digital Imaging. We use this machine for reactive and acid dye printing. More recently, we have installed the Ujet technology from Expand Systems. This Mutoh-based machine features Yuhan-Kimberly's innovative nano colorant pigment chemistry. Click here to learn more about the nano colorant system.

The Path of Development
Early technology introductions were adapted or re-engineered wide format paper printing machines. These machines were relatively slow, but had special fabric handling mechanisms that enabled printing of paper-backed fabrics and unbacked roll goods. These systems were suited to sampling and very small scale/one-of-a-kind or 'boutique' production.

More current technological introductions in the sampling area offer greater capabilities in terms of print speed and image quality (higher print resolution, variable drop size, increased color number). Some sampling machines also offer the ability to print with multiple ink sets for substrate flexibility. More sophisticated fabric handling mechanisms including 'belt feed systems' are utilized to enable the printing of a wider variety of substrates including light weight fabrics and knits. While these machines continue to print at modest rates of 10+ yds/hr, some industry leaders feel that short-run production could be achieved through printer redundancy (the use of multiple printers, much like a weaving scenario).

Most recently we have begun to see the introduction of more production oriented print systems. These machines have more robust print head technology for greater reliability, longevity and speed. Increased speed is typically achieved through print head redundancy - using multiple printheads in coordination. In some instances, printheads are banked together to create traversing or stationary 'array's. Like the newest generation of sampling machines, production machines also have more sophisticated belt feed systems that enable the printing of a wide range of substrates.

As production oriented print equipment has developed, the need for specialized auxilliary equipment for fabric preparation and finishing has become apparent. Available systems are designed for batch and/or continuous processing to serve short-run production needs and mutliple chemistry types.

Links
Visit our vendor directory to learn more about hardware offerings. Also visit the Techexchange library to read technology overviews in Jud's Technology Corner.