Roland DG has launched the Texart RT-640, a 64in dye sublimation transfer printer that comes in either four- or eight-colour ink configurations and with a choice of Rips. Top speed is 32.6m2/hr.
According to Roland product manager Mark Elvidge: “One of the Texart RT-640’s major innovations is the new ink. Previously, colours sublimated to fabrics could look distorted with dull blacks, missing greys and fuzzy details. The RT-640’s variable droplet technology in combination with new Roland Texart dye sublimation ink displays bold, vibrant colours and rich velvety blacks, as well as subtle gradations and fine details.”
The new printer incorporates a gold-plated, antistatic printhead capable of printing seven different droplet sizes. A newly designed Feed Adjuster, combined with a more powerful fan and an included take-up system, are said to deliver stability for high-speed printing.
There is a bulk ink system that uses one litre airtight-sealed pouches, and the Roland Ink Switching System allows users to load a fresh pouch without stopping the printer. In four-colour CMYK mode, this system provides two litres per colour and automatically switches to the other ink pouch when the first pouch runs out.
There choice of Rips are: VersaWorks, developed by Roland for Roland printers; or ErgoSoft Roland Edition, with textile-specific features.
Roland Printer Assist enables the operator to manage production, test-printing and cleaning functions directly from an iPad tablet from virtually anywhere within the premises. Additional features include media loading levers at both the front and rear of the printer and media brackets. The printer is backed up by a one year RolandCare silver warranty
The Texart RT-640 launch comes as Roland DG (UK) officially opens its new head office and Creative Centre in Clevedon, near Bristol in a ceremony officiated by the president of Roland DG Corporation, Mr Tomioka.