Are you considering a Mimaki sublimation printer for your business? While there are multiple Mimaki sublimation printers available, in this Mimaki sublimation printers reviews article, we critically examine the TS100-1600, a model praised for its high-quality prints and industrial capabilities. We test this printer’s claims of performance and versatility, assessing whether it’s the right investment for your textile and apparel printing needs. Read on as we learn dig deep into the features of the TS100-1600. You can also read our article highlighting the best Mimaki sublimation printers.
Key Takeaways
- The Mimaki TS100-1600 is a high-performance sublimation printer designed for the textile and apparel market, promising high-quality photographic prints with its wide color gamut and versatility for varying production scales.
- Installation of the TS100-1600 requires careful attention to space, grounding, and environment for safety and performance; it’s equipped with advanced features like NCU and NRS for continuous operation and an adaptable user interface with software options for different needs.
- With fast printing capabilities of up to 70 m²/h, the TS100-1600 offers a range of speeds suitable for different operational needs, and maintains quality consistency in prints over time, representing a valuable investment for professional printing businesses.
“Discovering the Mimaki TS100-1600”
At a glance, the Mimaki TS100-1600 strikes you as:
- a professional-grade sublimation roll-based printer
- designed for high performance
- an entry-level model capable of delivering photographic quality graphics
The manufacturer targets this industrial printing machine at the textile and apparel market, specifically focusing on on-demand printing for small to medium-sized businesses working with polyester fabric on a printed surface. But the question remains, can it truly deliver on these claims?
The TS100-1600 promises to deliver exceptional color quality and:
- Vibrant prints with a wide color gamut using Blue, Magenta, Yellow, and Black sublimation inks
- Support for a print width of 1,600 mm
- Ability to handle a variety of production requirements from sample creation to large-lot production without the need for plate-making
The Mimaki TS100-1600 distinguishes itself with its claim of reducing inventory and meeting swift delivery expectations. If these claims are true, it could serve as a valuable asset for businesses looking to increase efficiency and reduce costs. However, before drawing conclusions, it’s worth delving deeper into the setup process of this machine.
“Setting Up the Stage: TS100-1600 Installation”
Setting up an industrial-grade printer is no small feat. The TS100-1600 requires a specific installation space: at least 3,775 mm in width, at least 2,700 mm in depth, and a height of 1,475 mm (excluding Ink bottle height). This might seem like a lot, but considering the scale of operations it is designed to handle, it is a fair trade-off.
A key factor during the installation process is the requirement of proper grounding work to prevent electric shock accidents. All electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician to ensure safety. The printer also requires a stable environment free from dust, powder, and volatile substances to avoid potential printer failure or defects such as nozzle clogging. These requirements, while not uncommon for industrial equipment, must be taken into account when considering the TS100-1600.
Furthermore, the TS100-1600 has the following safety considerations:
- It is not explosion-proof and shouldn’t be installed in environments with flammable substances.
- If the printer is installed in a poorly ventilated area or sealed room, a ventilation system is recommended to ensure safe operation.
- It should not be installed in locations exposed to direct sunlight or subject to sudden temperature changes to maintain print quality.
These safety measures only emphasize the rigorous thought process that has gone into the design of the TS100-1600.
“Design Mastery and Functional Finesse of TS100-1600”
With its dimensions of 2,775 x 700 x 1,475 mm and weight of 166 kg (366 lb), the TS100-1600 is indeed a behemoth. It is designed to support heavy printing materials up to 45 kg. Its design factors in a controlled environment, with the printer operating best between a temperature of 20–30 °C (68–86 °F) and a humidity of 35–65% Rh (non-condensing).
The inclusion of the Nozzle Check Unit (NCU) and Nozzle Recovery System (NRS) within the TS100-1600 serves to maintain the printhead performance by preventing clogged nozzles, ensuring that the printer consistently delivers reliable operation.
“User Interface and Control”
The user interface is a pivotal factor in determining a machine’s ease of use. The TS100-1600 provides users with the option to choose between RasterLink7 and TxLink4 Lite software, allowing them to select the software that best fits their specific printing needs. This level of flexibility is a welcome feature, as it allows customers to tailor their printing process according to their unique requirements.
RasterLink7 RIP software, which is 25% faster than its previous versions, is included with the TS100-1600. This ensures a more efficient RIP process, contributing to the machine’s overall ease of use and consistency in print output. Thus, the TS100-1600 not only commits to quality but also to speed and efficiency.
For those requiring advanced workflow options, the TS100-1600 supports TxLink4 Lite software. This adaptability to various printing environments speaks volumes about the versatility of the TS100-1600.
What’s more, the TS100-1600’s Dot Adjustment System automatically aligns to ensure consistent print quality and repeatability, highlighting the printer’s capacity for maintaining high-quality outputs without constant manual adjustments.
“Print Precision and Versatility”
Print precision and versatility truly test the caliber of an inkjet printer. The TS100-1600 impresses on both fronts. Operating with two staggered on-demand piezo heads, the TS100-1600 offers print resolutions of:
- 360 dpi
- 600 dpi
- 720 dpi
- 900 dpi
Equipped with two newly developed heads, the TS100-1600 is engineered for stable operation and high-quality prints on textiles, focusing on accuracy in the dye sublimation transfer process using transfer paper.
Thanks to the Dot Adjustment System (DAS), the TS100-1600 automatically adjusts dot position and media feed amount, ensuring print quality is maintained even when media or printing conditions change. This attention to detail is what sets the TS100-1600 apart from other machines in the market.
When it comes to versatility, the TS100-1600 does not disappoint. It can handle a diverse range of sublimation transfer applications from sample creation to large-lot production, showcasing its versatility in printing on different substrates. With a maximum print width of 1,610 mm (63.4 inches), it can accommodate various large-scale printing jobs, further emphasizing its versatility.
“Performance Under Pressure: TS100-1600 in Action”
When challenged, the TS100-1600 holds its ground. It is equipped with a Nozzle Check Unit (NCU) and Nozzle Recovery System (NRS) to ensure continuous printing by automatically detecting and recovering clogged nozzles. Regular calibration of the Dot Adjustment System (DAS) is required for the TS100-1600 to sustain consistent print quality and maintain accuracy in dot position and media feed.
With a 1L ink bottle capacity for Sublimation ink Sb610, the TS100-1600 supports prolonged print runs without the need for frequent uv ink replacements.
“Speed and Efficiency Analysis”
Speed is the essence of the TS100-1600. It achieves high-speed printing of up to 70 m²/h, with a maximum possible print speed of 753 square feet per hour. It offers various print speeds, including a fast mode at 70 m²/h, a quality mode at 46 m²/h, and a high-quality mode at 19 m²/h. This range of printing modes allows businesses to select the one that best suits their needs, thus maximizing productivity.
Designed for stable and continuous operation in wide format printing, the frequency of ink replacement is mitigated with the use of large 1-liter ink bottles to reduce frequent changes. This feature not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to cost reduction.
In comparison to the conventional JV150-160 model, the TS100-1600 provides about twice the productivity in its fastest printing mode and features two new print heads for increased speed within the textile printing sector. This significant improvement in speed and efficiency is a testament to Mimaki’s commitment to innovation and industry leadership.
“Quality Consistency Check”
The true value of a printer is gauged by its ability to uphold consistent print quality over time. The TS100-1600 is equipped with an on-demand piezo head and advanced technologies like NCU, NRS, and MAPS4, which contribute to its durability and consistent high-quality prints over time. It is important to understand why you may face Issues such as your printer you use for sublimation is printing lines.
The Dot Adjustment System (DAS) and Mimaki Advanced Pass System 4 (MAPS4) provide automated adjustments to ensure high print quality. User reports indicate that the Mimaki TS100-1600 delivers consistent color output, which is crucial for producing accurate and vibrant prints in the sublimation transfer market.
Reviews from long-term users confirm that the TS100-1600:
- Maintains high-quality prints with minimal degradation in print quality over sustained long-term use
- Provides consistent performance
- Is a reliable choice for businesses looking for a long-term printing solution.
“The Verdict: Is Mimaki TS100-1600 Worth Your Investment?”
So, does the TS100-1600 warrant your investment? As part of Mimaki’s ‘100 Series’ lineup, it aims to strike a balance between:
- operational performance
- image quality
- speed
- cost
This balance makes it appealing for businesses looking for balance.
Operational efficiency of the Mimaki TS100-1600 is enhanced by its automated Dot Adjustment System (DAS), which minimizes the need for manual intervention in the digital printing process.
Key features of the Mimaki TS100-1600 include:
- High-quality printing with vibrant colors and sharp details
- Fast printing speeds for increased productivity
- User-friendly interface for easy operation
- Versatile media compatibility for a wide range of applications
The Mimaki TS100-1600 presents itself as a significant investment for those in the professional or commercial printing sectors.
Considering its sophisticated balance of features, advanced automation, and cost, the Mimaki TS100-1600 offers a compelling value proposition for potential entry-level buyers in comparison to other mimaki printers in its class. This well-rounded package of speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness makes the TS100-1600 a worthy contender in the world of professional printing.
Summary
In conclusion, the Mimaki TS100-1600 sets itself apart with its combination of speed, quality, and operational efficiency. Its advanced automation features, high-speed printing capabilities, versatility, and consistent print quality make it a compelling entry-level option for businesses in the textile and apparel market. Keep in mind this model is more of an entry level printer.
While it does require a significant initial investment, its long-term gains in terms of reduced operational costs and increased productivity make it a worthy investment. So, whether you’re a small business looking to reduce inventory or a larger company seeking to accommodate speedy delivery expectations, the TS100-1600 could be the solution you’re looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Mimaki printer work?
The Mimaki printer works by using a special transfer paper with solid ink that is pressed against the medium, such as fabric or ceramic, and high heat and pressure disperse the ink into the material, unlike liquid ink solidifying on top of the media in an inkjet printer. Make sure you understand whether regular paper can be used for sublimation.
Are sublimation printers worth the money?
Yes, sublimation printers are worth the investment, especially if you’re considering turning your sublimation hobby into a business and prioritizing quality. Sawgrass printers are seen as the standard for quality in the industry.
What are the disadvantages of sublimation printers?
The disadvantages of sublimation printers include the limitation of only being able to print on white or light-colored surfaces, susceptibility to color fading in direct sunlight, and the risk of printhead clogging if not used regularly. These factors can impact the long-term quality and versatility of prints produced by sublimation printers.
What is the best type of printer for sublimation?
The best type of printer for sublimation is the Brother Sublimation Printer, the Sawgrass SG500, the Sawgrass SG1000, or the Epson EcoTank ET-15000, all of which have their own strengths and are favored by different users for sublimation printing.
What is the print resolution of the Mimaki TS100-1600?
The print resolution of the Mimaki TS100-1600 ranges from 360 dpi to 900 dpi, providing various options for high-quality printing.
