Roland Debuts HeatWave DFP-74

Roland has partnered with Splash of Color to produce the HeatWave DFP-74, a 74-in. direct-to-fabric printer, complete with an on-board sublimation unit. Based on Roland’s sublimation technology, this newest member of the company’s HeatWave family is Roland’s first direct-to-fabric machine and will carry the Roland nameplate.

The DFP-74 is designed for speed with its eight piezo printheads and Roland’s Precision Firing Pattern, which comprises an in-line head configuration, a firing pattern optimized for the heads, and reduced calibration procedures. The printer’s intelligent media-handling system fine-tunes the media-feeding process to ensure precise movements. Once printed, the media passes through a temperature-controlled heating system equipped with an infrared thermometer; the system monitors and adjusts the heating process to ensure a quick and even curing.

Offering resolutions up to 720 x 720 dpi, the HeatWave produces a top speed of 548 sq ft/hr at 270 x 360 dpi. It’s designed to image polyester fabrics and other polyester substrates, and produce applications that include flags, banners, textiles, and soft signage that need to maintain a natural drape and texture.

The DFP-74 utilizes Roland’s BU-1 bulk-ink system (with 1 liter of each ink) and a CMYK x 2 set of HeatWave SBL2 sublimation inks for rich, saturated colors. The system features an Intelligent Ink Monitoring System that prompts users when levels run low.

This machine also boasts an Automated Intelligent Maintenance feature, which actively monitors the printer, adjusts maintenance intervals, and automatically performs routine maintenance (manual cleaning around the head and capping station is only necessary every two weeks). It also features a heavy-duty media feed and take-up system that supports rolls up to 220 lb. An optional air-filtration system is available for removal of fumes, oil, and dust particles.

The standard VersaWorks RIP features include: variable-data printing for production of custom prints; a new Max Impact color-management preset that produces deeper, more vivid blues and reds while preserving the overall color balance; spot-color matching with Roland Color Matching System; and more than 150 ICC profiles. Price: $89,995.

ROLAND DGA
www.rolanddga.com

SPLASH OF COLOR
www.splashofcolor.com