DTF printing in A3 format
The K13 Lite uses a direct-to-film (DTF) printing process. The design is first printed onto a transfer film and then transferred to the desired textile. The color system used is CMYK plus white. Procolored specifies a maximum print resolution of 1.440 × 1.440 dpi with eight passes, and a print width of 330 millimeters. This allows for the production of larger designs for T-shirts, hoodies, or bags. In addition to clothing, Procolored mentions denim, canvas bags, and caps as possible applications.
Unlike many traditional office or photo printers, the real challenge with DTF systems lies less in the resolution than in the handling of the white ink. It can separate during extended periods of inactivity and is therefore one of the aspects that requires regular attention with such devices.
White ink should automatically remain in motion.
Procolored utilizes automatic white ink circulation, which recirculates the white ink every 30 minutes to ensure a consistent flow and prevent buildup. Additionally, it incorporates LiteHead Technology, which automates the filling and priming of the ink system, thereby reducing maintenance.
Infrared Printhead SafeGuard is designed to detect deformed films or the smallest foreign objects before they can collide with the printhead. A damaged printhead can quickly become a costly problem in a DTF system.
G7 color management instead of lengthy trial and error.
Procolored also advertises the K13 Lite with calibrated color curves and G7-certified color reproduction, which in turn should reduce the manual coordination effort between design and finished transfer.
The workflow includes the Procolored Studio Lite software. According to the manufacturer, the K13 Lite is designed for Windows. Procolored aims to make the entire process, from print file to transfer, as simple as possible.
The display has an unusually playful touch. Users can choose between two pixel themes: "Galaxy Panda" and "Fluffy Panda." This has no impact on print quality, of course, but adds a bit of personality to an otherwise functionally designed production device.
For small production runs instead of mass production
According to the technical specifications, the K13 Lite is capable of approximately five A4 prints per hour. This makes the device particularly interesting for personalized one-off items, small collections, event merchandise, or for setting up a fledgling print-on-demand business. For higher daily print volumes, Procolored offers larger models such as the VF13 Pro.
The advantage of the Lite model lies less in maximum throughput than in its combination of compact design and automation. The price for the K13 Lite is on the Manufacturer's website Currently around 2.000 euros, with oven and press it's about 2.700 euros.
Whether the maintenance effort is actually reduced as much as promised in long-term everyday use would have to be shown by a comprehensive practical test. We are currently working on acquiring a test device.
Source: Procolored press release
