The MTEX 5032 fabric printer
C3imaging’s purchase of an MTEX 5032 fabric printer from Digital Print Innovations (DPI) was instigated by the need to offer customers a broader choice.
National accounts manager, Nigel Davies, explained, ‘We knew that soft signage was a future growth area, and had been keeping our eye on fabric printing for the last couple of years.
‘We met specialist textile printer distributor DPI at Sign UK and FESPA, and knew that the MTEX was a stand-out machine. It was the right fit, at the right time for our business, opening up exciting new soft signage opportunities for customers to create really innovative graphic displays.’
The new MTEX was installed in October 2013. Mr Davies said, ‘It’s built around a solid engine and we know that the technology is sound. With this new 3.2 m fabric printer, and the right framing systems, we can now offer point of sale backdrops, fabric exhibition systems, aluminium tensioned fabric frames, wall mounted, freestanding or suspended, lightboxes, freestanding displays, hanging fabric banners and sound walls.’
The new printer offers an all in one direct to textile solution, printing up to 1440 dpi and speeds up to 58 msqr/h direct to textile using a vibrant water-based ink set. The textile is then advanced to the inbuilt fixation unit where it sublimates into the fabric.
Mr Davies added, ‘The main benefits of fabric are the simplicity of changing graphics. Once you have your framing system, you can reprint as many times as you want, tailoring your signage for seasonal promotions or special events. Reduced weight also means lower delivery costs, and robust materials make fabric ideal for indoor and outdoor usage.
‘Having a direct to textile printer really simplifies what had previously been a fairly technical process. The MTEX also has a small footprint, making it ideal for our busy production area.’
