A new standard in textile printing at GBC
As a full-service advertising partner, GBC is always on the lookout for innovative solutions to improve production processes. With the new Black Beauty DTF printing machine, which we purchased through our partner GCC Deutschland, we have taken a significant step toward the future.
The previous DTF process: complex and time-consuming
DTF (Direct-to-Film) is a proven printing technique that enables detailed and color-intensive designs on textiles. Until now, however, the process at GBC was very labor-intensive: First, the print file had to be sent to the printer individually. Then the motif was applied to an A4 sheet in two passes. First with the classic CMYK colors, then with white, so that the colors would also shine on dark fabrics.
The film had to be changed after each print. Our employees then applied the powder-like adhesive by hand, taking great care to keep dust and lint away. Finally, the film was placed in a drying oven to ensure an even adhesive layer. Only then was it ready for the actual transfer onto the textile.
How the Black Beauty DTF printing machine optimizes the process
The Black Beauty DTF printing machine greatly simplifies this process. Instead of printing individual A4 sheets, the machine processes entire rolls up to 100 meters long. The film runs continuously, similar to a conveyor belt.
The colors and the white top coat are applied directly in a single pass. The machine then automatically distributes the powder adhesive with fine vibrating movements. This guarantees an even layer without the need for manual reworking. The machine then pulls the film directly into the integrated drying oven, where the adhesive cures perfectly. As soon as the film leaves the machine, it is completely ready for textile transfer.
Advantages of the Black Beauty DTF printing machine
There are many advantages:
- Significant time savings thanks to automated processes
- Maximum precision in ink application and adhesive distribution
- Less manual work and therefore less strain on our team
- Consistent quality for all print jobs
- Flexibility through the processing of roll material instead of individual foils
This means that not only our employees in the print shop benefit, but also our customers, who enjoy shorter production times and excellent print results.
Experiences that convince
We deliberately chose the Black Beauty because our US location has already gained experience with the same technology. There, it has been shown that the machine significantly increases efficiency and noticeably relieves the team. In addition, our US location has more experience in the DTF field, as the on-demand market in the USA is larger than here in Germany. Through regular global exchange at GBC, we benefit from these insights and can continuously expand our know-how.
A milestone for the GBC in-house print shop
With the new Black Beauty DTF printing machine, our in-house print shop is more modern, efficient, and powerful than ever before. For GBC, this means less time-consuming manual work, optimized processes, and premium-quality textile printing. For our customers, it means tailor-made advertising materials, faster delivery times, and even better results.