Epson has announced two new dye sublimation printers that will become available later this year. The new 1118mm wide dye sublimation printers are the SureColor SC-F6460 and SC-F6460H.
The standard SC-F6460 delivers an enhanced colour gamut with better gradation and a significant speed improvement over its predecessor. It uses a standard four-colour ink set. The SC-F6460H offers enhanced efficiency and features a new six-colour ink set. It is configurable for a choice of production applications.
Epson says it has configured the SC-F6460 for speed and optimised the SC-F6460H for image quality and function. Both models feature a new pouch-based ink system. They feature Epson’s latest PrecisionCore printhead and upgraded image processing for faster production with enhanced quality at lower pass rates.
Epson lists the SC-F6460 and SC-F6460H key features:
A bulk ink system using simple tray-load 1.6 litre pouches for reduced mess, reduced waste and ink that stays fresh for up to 12 months in the machine.
Significant improvement in image quality with a wider gamut and better gradation.
Significant improvement in speed with a 20 per cent ‘raw’ increase and sellable production that is up to twice as fast as that of the predecessor model.
Simple and easy to operate with a new 11cm touch display, Edge Print Pro software and integrated support for Epson Cloud Solution PORT
The SC-F6460H variant can be configured with a choice of three extended ink sets: OrVi for gamut maximisation; LcLm for gradation maximisation; or FyFp for brightness maximisation (fluorescent output).
Flexible output
Epson has designed the SC-F6460 and the SC-F6460H specifically for dye sublimation printing. The company says the new printers combine single source design, manufacture, service and support resulting in a fully integrated solution with optimum image quality and maximum reliability. Both models enable configurable and flexible output to suit a variety of applications ranging from custom clothing and décor to soft-signage, hard signage and merchandise.
The company adds the new printers are quick to install, easy to operate and easy to maintain. It says they produce predictable, accurate and repeatable output quickly and efficiently to deliver cost-effective production with low running and minimum labour costs.
Epson says dye sublimation has increasingly replaced traditional screen printing in recent years as it produces bright, colourful and extremely durable images. It adds that the technology underpinning the SC-F6460 and the SC-F6460H enables quick and efficient job turnaround. Also, workflow digitisation enables easier image creation, editing and customisation.
New printheads
The new PrecisionCore printhead is 33 per cent larger than the previous model for faster ‘raw’ output. Its ultra-fine nozzles support up to 600dpi x x 1200dpi with Variable Size Dot Technology (VSDT). Epson says the upgraded precision dot technology delivers superior quality at lower pass rates.
The Epson UltraChrome DS ink targets consistent output with a wider gamut. Epson says the ink set incorporated with these new models features an HDK formulation for blacker blacks with a more neutral tone and deeper, more accurate colour. The ink is fast drying for rapid production and sublimates well ensuring even more cost-effective production.
The SC-F6460 and the SC-F6460H benefit from Epson’s most advanced image processing with the latest generation Epson LUT, HTM and print modes enabling faster imaging with better gradation. Epson adds that Edge Print also facilitates streamlined production with a simple yet highly functional interface that accurately renders images on screen so what you see is what you get.
Epson provides a comprehensive heads and all on-site warranty. You can match optional additional cover to individual leasing and operational requirements. Multiple CoverPlus packs can be combined with the base warranty to provide up to five years of total cover. While extending on-site parts and labour cover, they also provide additional component protection for your investment during the cover period.
Cloud support
The two new dye sublimation printers feature integrated support for Epson’s Cloud Solution PORT service. Once activated, this service provides enhanced reporting and management functions and enhanced support capabilities. If a printer breaks down Epson can directly interrogate the machine, analyse the fault, attempt to remotely rectify it and if necessary, dispatch a technician with the parts required to get the machine up and operating again quickly and efficiently.
Epson expects availability for the SC-F6460 and SC-F6460H in November 2022.