In the field of digital printing, DTF printers and UV DTF printers are highly favored by practitioners due to their ease of operation and wide range of applications. Although both use a “film printing + transfer” process, there are significant differences between them in terms of core technology and applicable scenarios. Below, TanYu Printer will provide an in-depth analysis of the differences between UV DTF printer and DTF printer in terms of working principles, ink,film, operating procedures, applications, and prices.
Principle
The DTF printer uses water-based ink (CMYK + white ink) to print on PET film, which is then coated with hot melt adhesive powder and cured through heating. The printed design is subsequently transferred to fabric or other materials using a heat press.Related reading:What is DTF printer
UV DTF printers use UV-curable ink (CMYK + white ink + varnish + custom colors). The pattern is printed on A-film while UV lamps instantly cure the ink. The film is then covered with B-film using a laminating machine and transferred to the target material.Related reading:What is UV DTF printer
Ink
DTF printers use water-based ink, offering CMYK and white film. UV DTF printers use UV ink, offering CMYK, white film, varnish, and spot colors, which can be cured under UV light.
Film
DTF uses a single-layer film, transferring the design pattern to the film and then applying heat pressure. UV DTF employs a dual-layer AB film solution: the design pattern is first printed on the A-layer film, followed by the B-layer film being laminated on top, and then transferred to the substrate surface.
Operation
How to use a DTF printer
Design Printing: Use graphic design software (such as Photoshop) to create the pattern.
Printing the Film: Load PET film into the printer and select DTF-specific water-based ink (CMYK + white ink) for printing.
Powder Application and Curing: Evenly apply hot melt adhesive powder to the surface of the transfer film, shake off any excess powder, then cure by heating in a drying tunnel or oven (approximately 150°C).
Heat press transfer: Place the cured film pattern side down on the fabric, then use a heat press machine (130–160°C, 10–15 seconds) to apply pressure and transfer the design.
Peel off the film: After cooling, peel off the PET film, and the pattern will be securely adhered.
How to use UV DTF printer
Design printing: Use drawing software (such as Photoshop) to create patterns and import them into a UV DTF printer.
Printing film: Print the pattern onto a special PET transfer film and cure the ink instantly with a UV lamp.
Lamination: Cover the pattern side (A film) with B film.
Transfer processing: Apply the pattern side of the film to the substrate.
Peel off the film: Peel off the PET film.
Applications
DTF Printer is primarily designed for printing on a wide range of textiles, including cotton, polyester, blends, and more, while also being suitable for use on leather, canvas shoes, and other materials.Related article:Application of DTF printer
The UV DTF Printer is predominantly utilized for printing on rigid materials, encompassing metals, glass, plastics, wood, phone cases, and an array of other substances.Related article:Application of UV DTF printer
Prices
DTF printers, along with their corresponding consumables, typically offer a more economically attractive option, rendering DTF an excellent entry point for entrepreneurs venturing into the apparel industry. Consumables like PET film and hot-melt powder are available at reasonable prices, and the production process demonstrates remarkable cost-efficiency for large-scale manufacturing.
Conversely, UV DTF entails a more substantial initial financial outlay. To embark on UV DTF printing, you’ll require either a dedicated UV DTF printer or a UV printer combined with a laminating machine. When juxtaposed with DTF consumables, both the equipment and UV-curable inks generally command a higher price.
If you want to print patterns on clothing, you can choose a DTF printer. If you want to print patterns on ceramic cups, phone cases, crafts, etc., we recommend choosing a UV DTF printer. Select the appropriate printing machine based on the target application material. If you have any questions, please contact TANYU Printer for a quote. Our sales staff will provide you with a more suitable machine based on your needs. What are you waiting for? Contact us now!