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In the field of digital textile printing, DTF printing and thermal sublimation transfer are two mainstream technologies. DTF VS Sublimation printing ? Their core difference lies in the ink system and transfer principle used, which directly determines the applicability, feel, and durability of the final product. This article will objectively compare the two based on their technical principles.
Technical Principles:
DTF transfer film inkjet printing Process: This process belongs to film transfer technology. The process involves printing a pattern on a coated PET film using DTF colored ink. Covering the colored ink layer with white ink of the same pattern as a base color. Applying hot melt powder to the surface of the white ink layer and drying it. And then transferring the entire “colored ink-white ink-hot melt powder” composite layer from the PET film to various fabrics through high temperature and pressure.
Temperature Sublimation Transfer: This process is based on the sublimation and penetration characteristics of dyes. The process involves printing sublimation ink onto heat transfer paper and drying it. Then, through high temperature and pressure, the dispersed dyes on the paper sublimate and penetrate into the fabric fibers, bonding with them.
Comparison of Core Technical Parameters
Ink Type: DTF: The colorant is a pigment, relying on resin and binder to bond with the substrate. Sublimation: The colorant is a disperse dye, possessing affinity for fiber molecules and directly adsorbing and binding.
Printing Media: DTF uses a special coated PET film; the coating is used to fix the ink. Sublimation uses heat transfer paper.
Comprehensive Performance and Applicable Scenarios Analysis
- Feel and Texture: Sublimation transfer printing: The dye penetrates directly into the fabric fibers, without changing the original texture and breathability of the fabric. DTF heat transfer: Forms a coating layer on the fabric surface, resulting in a certain adhesive feel.
- Color Fastness and Durability: Sublimation transfer: The dye binds to fiber molecules, resulting in high color fastness and excellent wash resistance. DTF heat transfer: Relies on adhesive adhesion; its color fastness is good, but the bonding method with the fabric is different.
- Application Scope: Sublimation transfer: Its application is relatively specific, mainly suitable for synthetic fiber (polyester) fabrics. DTF heat transfer printing: It has a wide range of applications and is not limited by the fabric composition. In particular, it can achieve bright patterns on dark pure cotton fabrics with a white ink background.
In addition to this, there is another technique known as DTG printing. This process involves using a DTG printer to print directly onto the garment; it is simple to execute, produces clear patterns, and results in a soft, breathable finish that withstands washing without damage.
