Claiming to have ‘reinvented’ dye sublimation printing, HP has announced new printers, thermal transfer papers and inks to address the burgeoning digitally printed textile market. Two 1.6m (64-in) models have been introduced in Las Vegas today and a third 3.2m model will debut at Fespa next month.

Aiming to take a slice of what is currently estimated to be a US $2.2 billion market for hardware and ink for digitally printed textiles, of which around 60% is polyester-based, the HP Stitch S series comprises the entry-level S300 and ‘workhorse’ S500 models, to be joined by the S1000 at Fespa. Designed for applications including soft signage, interior decor, sportswear and more general apparel, all models in the new Stitch S range use HP’s new dye-sub ink, which is the first to have been developed for use with thermal printheads. They can print both via thermal transfer paper or direct to fabric without resetting and are fitted with spectrophotometers to maintain colour accuracy to tight tolerances from job to job and between printers.

A number of features are intended to improve productivity and quality. User-replaceable printheads (said to be a 20-minute process) and automated maintenance plus an ‘instant’ drying system contribute to throughput, with the S500 model capable of 110sqm/hr in single-pass mode thanks to an 8-head dual CMYK configuration. ‘Smart’ media advance, rewinding and failed/blocked nozzle compensation, together with the continuous colour calibration, should keep the output consistent and sellable, minimising waste, which can be significant, particularly in sportswear production where large areas of solid vibrant colour are often required.

The S300 will be sold bundled with an ErgoSoft RIP, HP thermal transfer media and colour profiles and features front-loading media for ease of use for new / light users. The production oriented S500 can handle thermal transfer paper down to 25gsm and and is capable of nine hours’ unattended operation, which HP claims represents double the capacity of rival units of a similar footprint, though no pricing details have been released.

Both the Stitch S300 and S500 will be available in June 2019. RA Smart will be the exclusive UK and Ireland reseller.