What type of maintenance is needed for DTF Printers?
Our DTF printer does require some maintenance. Please refer to the maintenance details supplied with the machine.
Why has the printer stopped and will not print?
Please initially switch the printer off and restart. Always try this first. Then check:
- Are the crash bars activated?
- Is the GUI software still running?
- Has the software crashed?
- Is there any error message reported?
If you have checked everything, then please do then reach out for one of our DTF Support Team to help you.
Why is the powder not recycling and seems to be blocked?
Is there enough powder in the Powder Shaker?
Check the bottom of the Powder Shaker to ensure the powder has not compacted in the bottom. You can also increase the fan power, which may resolve the situation.
Do I have to run the DTF printer daily?
To avoid downtime occurring on your DTF printer, maintain it as per the maintenance instructions and ensure a nozzle check is printed and the printheads are cleaned daily.
Why is my white ink not printing?
Check the nozzle pattern to see if all the nozzles are firing correctly. Check the print mode and media settings to make sure they reflect what you are printing in terms of the ink and the film.
If necessary, it might be worth reducing the ink density.
Clean the printhead as per maintenance instructions. Ensure printheads are cleaned within the capping station at least once a week.
Why aren't my colours coming out correctly (after DTF printing)?
The ripped image and profiles will affect colour. Check the image / artwork if the colour is not printing as expected.
Are there any missing nozzles? Print the nozzle pattern to confirm and clean if required.
Do I need special software or a RIP program to print with a DTF Printer?
Yes. DTF printers require RIP software and operating control software. The degree and quality of the RIP software vary as some versions can be basic, while others allow for a lot of control. For example, you may want to control things like colour profiling and image set up.
What is the difference between Hot Peel and Cold Peel DTF film?
This refers to the film’s temperature for peeling after heat pressing it.
With hot peel, you peel immediately after heat pressing. A cold peel must cool first, the cooling period can take up to 30 seconds after it is heat pressed. Cold Peel does not mean the transfer has to be truly ‘cold’. A hot peel film can give a softer feel to the print.
Must I apply a DTF transfer as soon as it is printed?
You can either press a DTF transfer as soon as it is ready or store it for later application.
This allows you to pre-print designs and images for later use, or to print and mail DTF transfers to others.
What type of ink is used in DTF?
DTF uses a pigment-based ink.
The colours are printed through a 4-colour process using Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black (CMYK) with White ink printed behind the image.
Is DTF limited to just cotton or polyester shirts?
No. Unlike other printing methods such as DTG or dye-sublimation, a DTF transfer can go onto any type of garment or item, including cotton, 50/50, polyester and tri-blends.
What are the recommended settings for my heat press?
The typical recommended setting for polyester is 160oC for 10 seconds, for cotton 150oC for 20-30 seconds. The settings are image and garment dependant and can vary, please make sure to test them to confirm.
Why is the powder not being evenly distributed after going through the shaker / oven?
If powder has accumulated on either side, use a soft brush to move the powder away.
