PRODUCTION & OPERATIONS
runs on a few selected lines because they’ re nervous about jumping in fully.
“ So we try it on a small level first to prove that it works and has a future. It’ s a tough conversation, but if you push the right doors, they’ ll start to open and people engage.”
Phil likens it to a“ Trojan horse” approach, where they talk to manufacturers about adopting DTP alongside traditional production methods.
Epson also gives companies the ability to run in-depth ink and fabric testing with industrial direct-to-fabric printers like the Monna Lisa ML-16000JQ, which has a new double-sided printing feature. This is run with Epson’ s partner Fortex, a company based at Lake Como that researches commercial ink chemistry and fabric construction.
“ Dye sublimation technology is popular because the images are vibrant and stunning,” Phil explains.“ Pigment ink, on the other hand, is slightly flatter, but it sits on the surface of the textile instead of being absorbed, which opens up new possibilities for printing on innovative fabrics.”
Epson’ s strength lies in its diversity of ink sets, from low-cost options to premium industrial solutions, giving customers flexibility and choice.
It makes sense then that DTP is a conduit for greater choice too – giving textile manufacturers of all sizes the opportunity to explore reshoring, nearshoring and the business and sustainability benefits of a JIT model.
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