What Adhesive Do DTF Transfers Use And How It Is Used?

DTF transfers or direct-to-film printing is more popular than the traditional DTG or direct-to-garment process. The new direct-to-film printing provides both flexibility and affordability to printers. First, you can print any textile material and second, you can keep the cost affordable in the long run. 

Let’s discuss the process of direct-to-film and understand its major components 

Direct-to-film is different from DTG in many ways. First, it uses a PET film of about 0.75mm thickness for transfer. Second, it involves the use of a specific type of adhesive powder to improve the quality and longevity of the design. For direct-to-film printing, you need a setup of different machines.

Hot-melt adhesive powder

It is a white granular product used as an adhesive material in the direct-to-film printing process. This adhesive powder plays a crucial in the process. Its job is to help bind the colored pigments in a printing machine to the surface or fabric where the print is to be transferred. The adhesive improves the overall quality of the print. Also, it keeps the print safe from peeling and fading for a long time.

A quality DTF shaker machine is employed for the even distribution of the adhesive powder. The machine sprinkles the powder all over the surface for transfer and helps the color pigments bind permanently and perfectly with the surface. The role of the machine becomes more important because it controls the amount of adhesive. A set amount of adhesive needs to be distributed in a controlled manner.

Curing 

A small industrial-quality curing device also plays a key role in completing a direct-to-film transfer. It melts the hot melt powder in the printer. The melted powder then goes on the transfer film. It is an important process as it cures the ink in its wet form. The print film is passed through an industrial oven so the ink blends well with the fabric.

A modern machine is used to get a hands-free experience. It features a belt that moves the transfer in the heated chamber so the design is cured and ready for transfer. You can place the freshly powered transfer on its belt and allow the machine to work on the transfer while you get time for other important jobs.

A small desktop mounted with height adjustable feature infrared conveyor dryer is the best option for transfer curing in the direct-to-transfer process. It comes with digitally controlled temperature and belt speed to get optimum results.