Inks Dtf Ink

Caldron Graphics DTF Inks | Premium Direct-to-Film Ink for DTF Machines

Product Description

Caldron Graphics DTF Inks offer exceptional wash fastness, anti-clog white ink, and ultra-stretch formulas. Premium water-based pigment ink for Epson & Ricoh DTF printers.

Caldron Graphics DTF Inks | Premium Direct-to-Film Ink for DTF Machines

The Caldron Graphics DTF Ink is a high-performance, water-based pigment ink formulated specifically for Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing. Engineered for maximum vibrancy, exceptional wash fastness, and ultra-soft hand feel, this DTF ink provides a reliable, crack-resistant finish on both light and dark garments. Unlike sublimation or standard DTG inks, Caldron Graphics DTF inks bond aggressively with the included hot-melt adhesive powder, allowing you to print on cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, and even leather with a single DTF machine setup. What sets Caldron Graphics apart in the textile printing industry is its advanced micro-dispersion technology—meaning the DTF white ink flows smoothly through Epson i3200-U1, Epson 4720, and Ricoh Gen5/Gen6 printheads without constant agitation or severe clogging. Whether you are running a high-volume custom apparel shop or a small batch DTF operation, Caldron Graphics DTF inks deliver consistent color profiles, lower curing temperatures to save energy, and brilliant results that survive industrial washing.

Key Advantages of Caldron Graphics DTF Inks

✔ Exceptional Wash Fastness

Achieves a 4-5 grade wash fastness rating (ISO 105-C06). For a DTF ink, this means prints retain their vibrancy and contrast even after dozens of industrial wash cycles—crucial for custom apparel businesses relying on Direct-to-Film printing.

✔ Ultra-Stretch & Anti-Crack Formula

Offers over 80% stretchability without cracking or peeling. While standard DTG inks often fail on athletic wear, Caldron Graphics DTF ink flexes seamlessly with the fabric, making it the ideal textile ink for sportswear, lycra, and stretch-blend garments.

✔ Anti-Head Clog Technology

Advanced micro-dispersion ensures the highly viscous DTF white ink remains stable inside the dampers and printheads. This reduces the daily maintenance required on your DTF machine and extends the life of expensive printheads.

✔ Eco-Friendly & Safe

Formulated without harmful heavy metals, formaldehyde, or unpleasant odors. This DTF ink complies with strict international environmental standards (OEKO-TEX), making it safe for printing on children's clothing and underwear using your Direct-to-Film printer.

✔ Low-Temperature Powder Melt

Optimized to cure and bond with DTF hot melt powder at lower temperatures (80°C-90°C on the film, 150°C-160°C on the garment). This digital printing ink feature prevents fabric scorching and reduces energy costs on your DTF machine.

✔ Universal Printhead Compatibility

Precision-filtered to 0.2 microns for seamless jetting through Epson i3200-U1, Epson 4720, Seiko, and Ricoh printheads. Regardless of your DTF printer brand, Caldron Graphics DTF inks integrate flawlessly.

Caldron Graphics DTF Inks Technical Specifications

ITEM SPECIFICATION
Product Name Caldron Graphics DTF Pigment Ink
Ink Type Water-based Pigment Ink
Color Configuration CMYK + White (5-Color Set)
Printhead Compatibility Epson i3200-U1, Epson 4720, Ricoh Gen5/Gen6, Seiko
Filtration Level 0.2 Microns
Film Curing Temp 80°C – 90°C (for 2–3 minutes)
Heat Press Temp 150°C – 160°C (for 10–15 seconds at 0.4-0.6 MPa)
Wash Fastness Grade 4-5 (ISO 105-C06)
Rub Fastness Grade 4 (Dry) / Grade 3-4 (Wet)
Stretchability > 80% (No cracking)
Shelf Life 12 – 18 Months (Unopened, stored properly)
Storage Temperature 15°C – 30°C (Avoid freezing or direct sunlight)
Compatible Substrates Cotton, Polyester, Cotton/Poly Blends, Nylon, Lycra, Spandex, Denim, Canvas, Leather, Waterproof Fabrics

*Always perform a test wash and stretch test on specific substrates before beginning full production runs. Shake white ink thoroughly before use.

Caldron Graphics DTF Inks FAQ

While both are water-based pigment inks, their application processes are entirely different. DTG ink (Direct-to-Garment) is sprayed directly onto the shirt and requires a pre-treatment liquid to be sprayed on the garment first, making it best for 100% cotton. DTF ink (Direct-to-Film), like Caldron Graphics, is printed onto a specialized PET film instead of the shirt. After printing, DTF hot melt powder is applied to the wet ink, melted in a DTF oven, and then heat-pressed onto the garment. DTF printing does not require pre-treatment and can adhere to almost any material (cotton, poly, blends, leather, nylon), whereas DTG is highly limited by fabric type.

White DTF ink contains titanium dioxide (a pigment) which is heavier than CMYK inks and naturally settles over time. To prevent clogging in your DTF machine: 1) Shake the white ink cartridges or bottles gently every day. 2) Ensure your DTF printer has a continuous circulation system (most modern machines do). 3) Run a nozzle check and cleaning cycle daily if the machine is not in constant use. Caldron Graphics formulates its white DTF ink with advanced anti-settling agents to significantly reduce clogging, but basic maintenance is still required for optimal digital printing equipment health.

One of the biggest advantages of Direct-to-Film printing is its versatility. Caldron Graphics DTF inks bond to cotton, 100% polyester, cotton-polyester blends, nylon, Lycra, spandex, denim, canvas, waterproof fabrics, and even light leather. Because the design is printed on a film and then heat-pressed, the ink does not soak into the fabric fibers—it sits on top bonded by the DTF powder. This is why a DTF printer can handle materials that would normally ruin a DTG machine or require completely different textile inks like sublimation.

To maximize the shelf life of your DTF ink, store it in a cool, dry place between 15°C and 30°C (59°F - 86°F). Do not expose the ink to freezing temperatures, as this will permanently ruin the pigment dispersion. Keep the bottles tightly sealed when not in the DTF machine to prevent the water base from evaporating and thickening the ink. When properly stored, unopened bottles of Caldron Graphics DTF inks will last 12 to 18 months. Once opened, it is best to use the ink within 6 months for the absolute best performance.