Top 5 Printers To Watch In 2021

There’s no question that 2020 has been one of the strangest years of a generation…

It’s transformed not only the way we live but the way we do business too. Some businesses have witnessed unprecedented growth and success, whereas others have unfortunately fallen victim to a fate beyond their control. Whilst the situation will pass it will undoubtedly leave a permanent mark, one that we are all going to have to learn to not only live with but adapt so it works in our favour.  

The world of large format printing hasn’t got away unscathed by any means. While some sectors such as sportwear have seen a dramatic decline in demand, others such as signage observed probably one of their busiest periods ever - manufacturing an unprecedented amount of Covid-19 warnings! One thing is for sure; the market is unpredictable right now. Therefore, looking into 2021, companies should invest in equipment that is as versatile as possible, so here’s the top 5 printers to watch out for…

5. Mimaki CJV150 Series Solvent Printer/Cutter

If you’re looking for an entry level workhorse to produce high quality signage or stickers, then look no further than Mimaki’s range of CJV printer/cutters. Not only will these compact machines save you space, they’ll save you a bunch of cash too! Available in a range of print widths starting from just 800mm there’s a model to suit all budgets and requirements. Plus, because the cutter in built in you don’t have to fork out for any additional equipment!

Pros:

• Available in a range of sizes
• Built-in cutter
• Can be configured with solvent or dye sublimation inks

Cons:

• Narrower widths may limit applications
• Not the fastest or most productive machine
• Printing with solvent inks can be limiting

4. HP Stitch S300 Dye Sublimation Printer

It seems a long time ago that HP were announcing the launch of their Dye Sublimation printers at ISA 2019 in Las Vegas but since then they have taken the market by storm and cemented their position within the textile printing market. The entry level S300 is the perfect solution for those looking to get involved with one of the fastest growing print sectors, with a machine that really packs a punch! The Stitch models are jam packed with technology no matter where you look in the range, offering customers the latest features found nowhere else on the market.

Pros:

• Can print direct-to-textile or paper transfer
• End user changeable printheads
• Wide variety of applications

Cons:

• Not the best solution for printing hard substrates, such as ceramics
• Limited to polyester substrates
• Requires pairing with a suitable heat press

3. Mimaki 3DUJ-553 Full Colour 3D Printer

Whilst it has been around for quite a few years now, 3D printing is still relatively new technology. The vast majority of machines out there only print one, or a handful, of colours and whilst it’s impressive to print a spare bearing for your mountain bike; it’s even more impressive be able to print a detailed, full-colour replica of your own head! The Mimaki 3DUJ-553 opens up a new realm of possibilities and this type of printing is undoubtedly going to become more and more prevalent over the next decade – definitely one to watch out for! 

Pros:

• World’s first full colour 3D printer (over 10 million colours)
• Print incredibly high detailed products & prototypes
• Mix clear and colours to create different levels of transparency

Cons:

• Creating 3D files for print is a learning curve
• Models can take several hours to produce
• Usually requires a specialist market to generate ROI

2. Mimaki TX300P-1800 Direct-To-Textile Printer

If you’ve ever wanted to start your own fashion brand or furniture label using printed textiles, then this is the ideal solution for you. The Mimaki TX300P-1800 can be configured with either Acid, Reactive, Pigment or Disperse dyes. In some circumstances a combination of dyes can be used – making for a truly versatile machine. 

Pros:

• Option to configure with a range of ink types 
• Advanced media handling capabilities
• Can be used to print almost any fabric type

Cons:

• Not the fastest machine when setup with 8 colours
• Ancillary equipment required for finishing
• Cannot be left unattended

1. HP Stitch S1000 Dye Sublimation Printer

HP are known for developing some of the most revolutionary print technology on the market, and the HP Stitch is no different. They have completely shaken up the 320cm/126” soft signage market with the HP S1000, reinventing dye sublimation. This super-wide solution is capable of high-quality print at speeds of up to 220m2/hr, with an ethos that puts productivity and ease of use at the top of the agenda. Competitively priced with features and stats not seen anywhere else on the market, the HP S1000 is top of the list for ones to watch in 2021! 

Pros:

• 10Lt bulk ink system to keep running costs down
• Automatic maintenance routine
• Easy loading saving up to 40% time when compared with the competition

Cons:

• Requires larger space to accommodate for wider width
• Calendar heat press investment is more at 320cm wide
• Once you have used one, you won’t want to use anything else

For more information on any of the models mentioned above, or to arrange a demonstration, please contact:

[email protected] or 01625 576231

www.rasmartmachienry.co.uk