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Mimaki TX400-1800B - new adhesive belt-equipped large format textile inkjet printer

Mimaki TX400-1800B textile printing machine.With continued demand for short run production, lower costs and greater creativity across the board in direct-to-textile printing, the introduction of Mimaki's new TX400-1800B textile inkjet printer looks set to deliver a peerless solution for the apparel, furnishings and soft signage markets.

Historically, production textile printing has required long runs, cumbersome un-environmentally friendly processes and the costs and time associated with rotary or flat screen printing. The introduction of the Mimaki TX400 provides a solution for volume production of high quality direct-to-textile prints onto a myriad range of fabrics.

With a 1.8m print width and production speeds of around 25sq m/hour, the TX400-1800B utilises an adhesive belt carrier system to stabilise fabrics that have a tendency to stretch and contract during printing. This technology ensures a high quality of result, increased speed and reduced ink usage alongside the capability of printing to traditionally 'difficult' materials. The high speeds are achieved even with an eight colour inkset and at detailed resolutions and the newly designed heater system, allows for the rapid drying of the wetted out fabric before it goes onto the powered take-up roller. This also incorporates Mimaki's Web Tension Control System that provides consistent tension over the full width of the print whether on light or heavyweight cloths.

The machine's inbuilt UISS (Uninterrupted Ink Supply System) automatically switches between ink sacks as the ink becomes spent, easily fulfilling long run, unattended print jobs. With the use of Mimaki's new two litre bulk ink containers, the ink cost is reduced significantly too. Inks for the machine include reactive dye (for printing to cotton and silk), acid dye (for silk, nylon and wool) and dye sublimation inks for polyester prints. As such; the range of work that can be produced with the printer is vast - from haute couture silk scarves through to flags and fabric banners, upholstery and sportswear, and more.

Hybrid's marketing manager, Duncan Jefferies comments; "Production digital textile printing is all about reducing costs, lead times and waste, whilst maintaining quality and creativity. The Mimaki TX400 makes the introduction of a low inventory business model possible, drastically reduces environmental impact and delivers what the customer wants, in the time that they need it."

The TX400-1800B joins the dye sub specific 1800D model at the head of Mimaki's direct-to-textile printer range - adding the adhesive belt to its sister machine's feature list. Delivery of both is expected to commence in spring 2010 with demonstrations available through Hybrid's authorised textile reseller network. Further information can be found at www.hybridservices.co.uk or by calling on 01270 501900.

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