Pigment ink is one of the types of ink used in DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing. It is specifically designed for textile printing applications and offers several advantages. Here’s some information about pigment ink in the context of DTF printers:
Composition: Pigment ink contains fine pigment particles suspended in a liquid carrier. These pigments are insoluble, which means they do not dissolve in the carrier liquid. The carrier liquid can be either water-based or solvent-based, depending on the printer and application requirements.
Vibrant and Long-lasting Prints: Pigment ink is known for its vibrant and fade-resistant colors. The pigments used in the ink provide excellent color saturation, resulting in vivid and eye-catching prints on various fabric types. Additionally, pigment ink is more resistant to fading caused by exposure to sunlight and washing, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Opacity and Coverage: Pigment ink offers high opacity, meaning it can effectively cover dark or colored fabrics with vibrant and opaque prints. This makes it suitable for printing on both light and dark-colored textiles, offering design versatility.
Compatibility with Different Fabrics: Pigment ink is compatible with a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, and more. This versatility allows for printing on different types of garments and textiles, making it a popular choice in the textile industry.
Water and Wash Resistance: Pigment ink is generally water-resistant and provides good wash resistance. This means that prints created with pigment ink can withstand multiple washes without significant fading or bleeding, ensuring the longevity of the printed design.
Longer Drying Time: Compared to other inks, pigment ink typically has a longer drying time. This allows for better color penetration into the fabric fibers, resulting in enhanced color vibrancy and sharpness. However, it’s important to ensure proper drying and curing processes to avoid smudging or transferring the wet ink during handling.
It’s worth noting that different DTF printer models and manufacturers may have their own unique formulations or variations of pigment inks. Therefore, it’s essential to follow the specific recommendations provided by the printer manufacturer for optimal printing results with pigment ink.