New DTF process launched by Resolute

After a two-year period of development, Resolute is launching a new direct to film process for printing and applying heat seal transfers on sublimated shirts.

In a recent blog post published to Resolute’s website, Colin Marsh, MD, said the process had been developed entirely in-house, utilising a combination of premium DTF film, innovative printing methods, and customised software to achieve its results. Mr Marsh continued to say Resolute developed the DTF transfer by utilising its Premium 3-second instant hot peel DTF film in conjunction with a modified R-Jet PRO DTF V8 four-head printer.

The printer is modified so it jets the ink differently which allow the ink to be much thicker without running off the film. However, this only works on the Resolute Premium 3-second instant hot peel. Other films have been tried; however, the coatings are not strong enough to hold the ink. The transfers are ready to use when they exit the finisher, it is recommended they are pressed the same day as they are made. This is not compulsory, but it is good practice due to the density of ink.

The DTF Ultra system is the same footprint as a standard V8, so it takes up no extra room, and can also print standard transfers at normal speeds of up to 24m per hour. The printer uses a special ink developed exclusively for Resolute. Currently, the ink has not been given a name however when it launches, it will be a Resolute branded product. The ink does not contain ethylene glycol and is currently going through Oeko-Tex certification. It will also have the HAPS (hazardous air pollutants free) certification.

At first glance, they resemble traditional DTF transfers, but upon closer inspection, they reveal a brighter appearance with a denser white base, similar to traditional cut vinyl, while offering top quality and support for variable data. This new DTF process eliminates the need for expensive polyester blocker transfers, a traditional solution that often comes with high minimum order quantities.