Industry Report


rigorous standards, allowing for true ‘apples-to-apples’ comparisons to be made. To that end, we standardise analysis procedures through using high resolution proprietary test files, standard T shirt blanks for washability tests (Next Level 3600 100% cotton), and standard washing and drying equipment and conditions, all conducted at our UK ISO-certified lab. To guarantee that we see devices perform at their best, we collaborate with vendors before our test visit, sharing our test files so they can check that their profiling and device set up is optimised.


The four testing cornerstones Our test program is built around measuring four key metrics; 1) productivity, 2) image quality, 3) ink consumption, and 4) washability.


Our goal remains consistent: to help both both buyers and sellers to understand the true diff erences between digital imaging devices


– David Sweetnam, director of EMEA/APAC lab & research services, Keypoint Intelligence


the test parameters and processes, please visit our website, where you can also access sample DTF reports from major industry players like Ricoh, Roland DG, Mimaki and STS.


Quality control and batch consistency – The first Achilles heel of DTF


‘The Martians had no resistance to the bacteria in our atmosphere to which we have long since become immune. Once they had breathed our air, germs, which no longer affect us, began to kill them.’


There are four key metrics that are tested


Importantly, we provide our readers with the ability to cross-compare results across these key metrics at both the day- to-day production mode speed/ quality mode – where most of the money is made – and at the highest quality mode, which caters to the most demanding customers. Too often we see messaging around fast productivity, excellent image quality, and low cost of print that sound impressive individually, but you know is not based on the device printing in the same mode. Colour gamut size and output resolution will, of course, be referencing device performance with the device set to the highest-quality output option. Meanwhile, productivity and ink consumption claims are dialled in at the other end of the scale. This inconsistency can leave readers guessing about the true relationship between mode and performance soundbites.


For a comprehensive breakdown on www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk


While bacteria and viruses may have done for the aliens in the HG Wells classic, it is batch control of PET films and adhesive powders that proved to be the early nemesis of DTF, coupled with questionable customer technical support.


Vendors are spending inordinate amounts of time testing supplies to provide the comfort blanket that buyers crave, knowing that when they have carried out the due diligence to get that perfect set up, they won’t need to go through it all again every time they get their next batch delivery in.


24-hour DTF stress test service to the rescue


To help vendors showcase how reliable their DTF devices and supplies partners are, we have developed the 24-Hour DTF Stress Test. The concept is simple: we source films, inks, and powder from various suppliers to ensure multiple batch deliveries. The supplies are security sealed by us before shipping to the test site so we


The next test group kicks off in July


The next group test, which kicks off this month, looks at performance around the ever-growing number of decorative DTF fi lms that can be used to add a metallic foil, glitter, or glow-in-the-dark effect to name but a few. The test will focus on issues surrounding the ease of transfer, quality of the end-product, and how well it stands up to the dreaded wash test. Invites to participate free of charge have already been sent out to many suppliers, with big players including STS and Resolute DTF already quick to confi rm they are in.


Get in touch! If there are any specifi c group tests that you would like Keypoint Intelligence to investigate, please email Melanie Attlesey at mattlesey@ datateam.co.uk with details.


can ensure that they are not ‘tampered with’ or changed before we test. We run the device over three consecutive eight-hour continuous printing shifts, assessing a wide range of performance factors. These include, output quality, washability performance, user maintenance intervals, waste ink consumption, and printed volume achieved.


The key deliverable for the vendor is a 2.5-minute timelapse video that shows the entire test, with dynamic performance counters and imagery and B-roll footage to show everything that happened over the 24-hour period.


Educational group tests Our lab will also conduct educational group tests looking at key factors that come into play for DTF users. The first group test explored the impact of ‘non-ideal’ washing conditions with spin or heat conditions cranked up a notch. The results may surprise you.


June 2024 |43 |


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