Splash of Color introduced the HeatWave DFP-74 74” direct-to-fabric printer. Based on Roland’s HeatWave sublimation technology, the new HeatWave DFP-74 direct-to-fabric digital printer is a complete solution that prints directly onto polyester fabrics and other substrates. The system features precision media handling components and an advanced on-board sublimation unit that together ensure high image quality and saturated colors for flags, banners, textiles, and soft signage that maintain their natural drape and texture.

Featuring eight advanced piezo print heads and Roland’s Precision Firing Pattern, the DFP-74 prints at up to 548 sqft./hr. The DFP-74 features an intelligent media handling system that communicates directly with the motherboard to ensure complete control of the media. The system features two precision stepping motors that automatically fine tune the media feeding process to ensure precise movements with every pass of the printer. Once printed, the media passes through a temperature-controlled heating system equipped with an infra-red thermometer. This advanced system monitors every phase of the heating process and makes adjustments to the temperature automatically to ensure that images cure quickly and evenly.

The DFP-74 comes equipped with a BU-1 bulk ink system featuring new HeatWave SBL2 sublimation inks in 1-liter bottles, designed for unattended production printing and lower production costs. The BU-1 features an Intelligent Ink Monitoring System that monitors ink levels and prompts users when levels run low. A clear LED display makes it easy to track ink usage.

With the DFP-74, an Automated Intelligent Maintenance System comes standard and automatically performs routine maintenance, eliminating many time-consuming manual maintenance tasks. This system actively monitors the printer and adjusts maintenance intervals accordingly. As a result, manual cleaning around the head and capping station is recommended just once every two weeks. In addition, the DFP-74 can be left unattended for extended periods of time without drying ink or clogging printheads.

The HeatWave DFP-74 fabric printer features:

• A 74” direct-to-fabric digital printing solution
• High-quality results on a range of polyester substrates
• HeatWave sublimation inks
• BU-1 bulk ink system with new HeatWave SBL2 inks in 1-liter bottles
• Advanced media handling system
• On-board sublimation unit
• Precision Firing Pattern
• Up to 720 x 720 dpi resolution
• Speed of up to 548 sqft./hr.
• Automated maintenance
• Optional air filtration system for removal of fumes, oil, and dust particles
• VersaWorks RIP software
• Variable data printing 
• Spot color matching with the Roland Color System
• Max Impact color management preset

Roland’s VersaWorks RIP offers advanced features including a new Max Impact color management preset, the Roland Color Matching System for spot color matching and variable data printing for easy, custom prints with variable data. The Max Impact preset produces deeper blues and reds, the fundamental colors for outdoor graphics, while preserving the overall color balance required for photorealistic images. VersaWorks also includes more than 150 ICC profiles for reliable results on a wide range of media solutions. The Roland@NET automated update feature ensures ongoing access to the latest VersaWorks version and profiles available. Built on an Adobe Postscript engine, VersaWorks is compatible with Windows® XP Professional, 2000, and Windows Vista.

The DFP-74 is priced at $89,995 and available through the Splash of Color reseller channel.