Can DTF Ink Affect Print Quality?

Can DTF Ink Affect Print Quality?

In DTF (Direct-to-Film) technology, the choice of ink and film greatly impacts the quality of the final product. Printing on T-shirts, especially in complex projects, depends on various factors, with DTF ink and film being among the most significant.

1. Impact of DTF Ink on Print Quality

DTF inks differ in pigment quality, composition, and durability. Using high-quality inks enables vibrant and durable prints, while lower-quality inks can result in faded, less durable, and even cracked prints. Our tests at www.sitotisk.net have shown that HanrunPaper and Unity inks are suitable for achieving intense colors that remain vibrant even after numerous washes.

Property	HanrunPaper	Unity	Others
Saturation and Vibrancy	Very high – colors remain vibrant even in complex shades and gradients.	High – good saturation, especially suitable for pastel and light shades.	Usually less intense, which can lead to less vibrant shades.
Wash Fastness	Excellent – colors remain vibrant even after multiple washes.	Very good – minimal fading, comparable to HanrunPaper.	Average durability with the possibility of fading after several washes.
Pigment Size	Smaller, fine pigments – allow precise application, fine details and reduce the chance of head clogging.	Smaller pigments – enable very precise details and reduce the risk of head clogging.	Often larger pigments, which can increase the likelihood of head clogging issues.
Head Clogging Issues	Low probability – due to the fine composition of pigments, there is less chance for head clogs.	Low probability – suitable for long-term use without printer head problems.	Higher probability of issues – larger pigments can cause clogs, increasing the need for maintenance.
Compatibility with Films	Excellent with HanrunPaper and Unity films – allows for very even transfer and adhesion.	Very good with various films, especially Unity – provides firm adhesion.	Expected to be variable – some films may allow for better transfer than others.
Suitability for Complex Patterns	Ideal for intricate designs and gradient transitions.	Very suitable – allows smooth color transitions and maintains details.	Usually not recommended for precise designs, as there can be issues with transitions and details.
Usability at Lower Temperatures	Adheres well even at lower temperatures – suitable for sensitive materials.	Good – allows printing on materials that require less heat.	Probably less reliable – may lead to uneven transfer at lower temperatures.
Price	Higher price, but exceptional quality and long-lasting durability.	Very good price – a good choice for wide use.	Usually lower.

The image shows white ink tests photographed with a phone.

Conclusion

DTF ink has a significant impact on print quality. Through precise testing of various combinations at www.sitotisk.net, we ensure that customers can achieve optimal results according to specific project requirements.

By using appropriate ink and regular maintenance of the DTF printer, you can extend the lifespan of the printer head. We probably won’t conduct tests on this topic, as it’s more than obvious that the size/size of the particles, at least in white ink, definitely affects the clogging of the printer nozzles in the print head. The inks tested above are suitable for piezo heads, Epson XP600, DX5, i1600, i3200, and other models with the same technology.