Mutoh marks Heimtextil debut with new dye-sub printer launch

Mutoh is marking its first participation at Heimtextil by launching a new dye-sublimation transfer printer suitable for home textile and interior decor printing.

The 1.9m-wide ValueJet 1948WX is being premiered this week at the textile and garment manufacturing trade fair in Frankfurt and is expected to be commercially available by March/April.

The machine integrates a staggered four printheads setup and a large built-in dual heater, which the manufacturer said enables high speed printing and improved productivity, delivering a top speed of 117sqm/hr.

Mutoh said the device, which uses its new high-density and medium-density dye-sublimation inks, is suitable for businesses looking for a high-volume production printer for roll-to-roll digital transfer prints.

Roll holders for lightweight roll media up to 30kg come as standard while an optional heavy-duty media feed and take-up system maintains stable media transportation on roll media up to 100kg.

The ValueJet 1948WX can print onto fabrics or dye-sublimation paper, which can be transferred to polyester for applications including upholstery, curtains or cushion fabrics. The machine can also be used for fast fashion, soft signage and textile banners.

Mutoh commercial marketing manager Nick Decock said: “We already have dual-head printers which are micro staggered but if you double the amount of heads – as we have done with this machine – then you can go even faster.

“Typical production speed for sellable production quality on this machine will be above 80sqm/hr, which is doubling up the speed we currently have with the 1638WX.”

Pricing for the ValueJet 1948WX has not yet been disclosed.

Mutoh is also showing a range of its other printers for wallpaper and interior decor printing, decorative fabrics, furniture fabrics and upholstery, cushions and curtains at Heimtextil.

These include the ValueJet 1938TX, a 1.9m-wide direct-to-textile printer, and the ValueJet 1638X, a 1.63m-wide high-quality sign and display printer.