Epson has released an upgrade to its SureColor F2100 direct to garment printer. The new SureColor F2200 is aimed at start-up companies or medium-volume businesses that need high levels of flexibility and accuracy with fast turnaround times.
Designed to produce complex designs on a variety of garments, the SureColor F2200 uses Epson’s PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead technology to provide faster printing, resulting in a claimed 25% productivity increase over its predecessor. With a flat top design that allows easy installation into smaller spaces, the unit’s flexibility is enhanced through Epson’s bundled GarmentCreator2 software, which enables the printing of both DtG and direct to film and improves the quality of fine lines and small text.
A transparent lid and internal light enables print status checking, while a 4.3in (11cm) touchscreen assists operation. With automatic carriage height adjustment, the F2200 remains stable with minimal user adjustment, and the plate can be easily removed and attached by hand, making coarse adjustment for printing different garments quick and straightforward. The GarmentCreator2 software features fast data processing and supports 600dpi print resolution.
‘Although the DTG market has become challenging due to DtF 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, Epson Europe.
Claimed to offer a low total cost of ownership, the F2200 uses Epson’s new UltraChrome DG2 ink pouches instead of cartridges. These 800ml pouches (previously 600ml) mean less frequent changes, and reduced wastage in terms of both space and weight compared with cartridges. The DG2 ink also reduces bleed between yellow and black, which is important for applications such as light T-shirts, and maintains colour consistency.
‘Fespa this year is all about demonstrating how Epson digital printing technology can produce beautiful, bespoke products that enhance our lives,’ explains Ms 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.’
