Answering Some Questions About UV-DTF

One of the features we promote with our Catalyst printers is the ability to produce UV DTF prints, in addition to the high quality direct-to-object print we're known for. I get asked about this a lot - so here are a few details that may be helpful if you're exploring direct print and UV DTF. We've also put up a short video at https://youtu.be/K45jXUouWVc showing DTF being used to customize the cooler we're giving away for our first summer promotion, so you can see how the process works.

What is UV DTF?
DTF stands for Direct To Film, or I've also heard Direct Transfer Film, a process by which you print first onto a film, then laminate it and use the final product to transfer the image onto an object.

Are all UV inks DTF-compatible?
Not necessarily. Some inks designed specifically for direct to object printing may not adhere well to the transfer film or be able to withstand the heat of the laminating process. By the same token, DTF-specific inks may not obtain good adhesion to a variety of surfaces without the transfer film.

Why would you use UV DTF instead of printing directly onto an object?
There are 2 main reasons;
1. You have an object that is not suitable for direct print. If it simply does not fit on the printer, as with our cooler - or perhaps it has an aggressive taper or a handle, which will not allow a clean direct print.
2. If you have an extremely non-porous surface, the adhesive nature of the transfer film can produce a better bond in some instances, increasing durability and longevity of the print.

What is the difference between a dedicated UV-DTF printer and a UV Flatbed that also does DTF?
The purpose-built DTF printers do that one thing particularly well, and typically combine the print and lamination into a single process on a single machine, but they are not capable of direct to object prints. UV flatbeds are typically designed primarily for direct to object, but (with compatible ink) can print on the DTF film, which is then moved to a secondary laminating device to complete.

The type of printer that is right for your organization will depend on your primary print objective. If you customize primarily irregular and very large items, or sell the DTF prints for customers to use, then a dedicated UV DTF printer may be a great option. If you do mostly direct to object, but need the occasional oversized or oddly-shaped object, then a UV flatbed may be the move.

If you have questions, or need clarification for your particular application, please reach out and I'm glad to help.
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