Introduction
The popularity of sublimation printing extends into large-format printing. This method can print on large substrates like 70″ or 75″ surfaces.
With large-format sublimation printers, you can print on large canvasses while maintaining high image resolution. They are also extremely fast and loaded with features.
Continue reading to get a hold of the top large-format sublimation formats for 2024.
What does a dye-sublimation printer do?
Sublimation printing is a widespread technique in digital printing. It uses the “sublimation” process, which turns ink into gas and embeds it into the fabric once it has solidified.
Sublimation printing is all about making the ink part of the material rather than sticking to the surface. It also employs a two-stage process: printing on a transfer paper and heat pressing the design.
There are different types of sublimation printers you can use. One is the popular large-format printer that works with wide-area substrates. It is perfect for printing apparel, banners, or blankets.
The best thing about dye-sublimation printers is their ability to create vivid, fade-proof transfers that last. This technique is a good one to use if you want to start a t-shirt printing business.
Can I use any printer for sublimation?
There are a lot of dedicated sublimation printers in the market today. The latest models have the highest standards and the best features. Ideally, you should get one to enjoy the edge of the newest sublimation technology.
But, you can’t buy these printers with a few dimes; they’re expensive. So, what are your options?
Your cheapest option is to convert a standard inkjet printer. All you have to do is drain the old ink and run it through its Power Cleaning function. This removes all the old ink in the tank and in the printheads.
The final step is to refill it with sublimation inks. And now you’re good to go.
Another alternative is to buy a brand-new inkjet printer and fill it with sublimation ink immediately. This may cost you a little more, but you can ditch the messy process of removing old inks from a used printer.
One more important tip to remember is to choose a printer with a Micro Piezo printhead. Micro Piezo printheads are durable and work with most inks. It has no problem printing pigment or dye inks subject to material property change once heated.
Best large format printers of 2024
The printing industry has so many products to offer, including large-format printers. But choosing one for your business should only land you the best you can get. To help you with that, here are the best large-format printers 2024.
1. LINKO D1801/1802/1803
LINKO is the leading sublimation printer maker in China. The LINKO D180 large-format sublimation printer series is 70″ wide and based on EPSON i3200 printheads. It is equipped with advanced technologies like anti-collision features and movable nozzles.
Here are their specifics:
Specs
LINKO D1801
- Has 1 Epson i3200A1 printhead
- Machine dimensions of 2800 mm x 750 mm x 1340 mm
- Large 1.5 L ink tank
- Equipped with an emergency kill switch, low noise feature, and anti-collision
- Nozzle height adjusts from 1.5mm to 8mm
LINKO D1802
- With dual i3200 A1 Epson printheads
- Nozzle height adjusts from 1.5mm to 5mm
- Large 1.5L ink tank capacity
- With paper shortage alarm
- Up to 8 pass/ 720 x 2400 dpi, 20 m²/h printing precision and speed
- Machine dimension of 2959 mm x 800 mm x 1400 mm at 245 kg
Advantages
The LINKO D180 sublimation printers are advanced machines with necessary and practical features. They speed up production while maintaining top printing quality. These many features are available at a cheaper price than leading brands.
Disadvantages
The LINKO D180 series can be bulky.
2. HP DesignJet T650
The HP DesignJet T650 is a sleek-looking large-format printer. It comes with a maximum printing area of 36 inches. It’s a minimalist printer in its class that will fit your office or store.
Specs
- Wireless printing tech
- Available with sheet roll feeder, sheet feed, and automatic feeder
- With a printing speed of 25 seconds for A1 papers/ D plot
- One-click printing technology
- A resolution capable of achieving 2400 * 1200 optimized dpi
- Compatible with dye and pigment inks
Advantages
HP’s DesignJet T650 is a reliable machine with convenient printing techs. It is minimal in size and price tag, perfect for small to medium printing orders. You can’t overlook HP’s reputation for manufacturing the most reliable printers.
Disadvantages
It’s small in the large-format printer category. You only get a max 36-inch printing dimension.
3. Linko X1908
The LINKO X1908 is the bigger cousin of the D180 series. Its maximum printing dimension is 75″, perfect for printing on larger substrates like fabrics. It is also based on an Epson i3200 printhead.
Specs
- With 8 Epson i3200 printheads
- Reaches a printing speed of 290m/h in a single pass
- With automatic cleaning and moisturizing
- Has Flash Spray tech for anti-blockage
- 3L ink bucket
- 10,000 meters paper capacity
- 1100 kg max weight
Advantages
The LINKO X1908 is the perfect machine for large printing needs. It has an unmatched printing speed equipped with automatic cleaning features. It is one of the most convenient printers to use in its category.
Disadvantages
This printer is bulky and heavy. Exclusive to large substrates.
4. Canon imagePROGRAF TM300
The Canon imagePROGRF TM300 is a versatile and quiet large-format printer. It is an inkjet printer you can convert to a sublimation printer. It boasts fast printing due to its proprietary 6-channel, 1.07″ printhead.
Specs
- 36″ printing width
- Based on LUCIA TD five-color pigment inks
- Compact body at 1289 mm x 887 mm x 1060 mm
- Inkjet technology
- 130 ml and 300 ml ink tank capacity
- With 3-inch touchscreen LCD control panel
- 2400×1200 dpi max resolution and a 144 pages per hour (A1) fast printing
Advantages
The Canon imagePROGRF TM300 is a compact inkjet printer with 60% less operational noise. It is suitable for small to large printing capacity on medium-sized substrates. It has one of the highest-resolution print outputs in its category.
Disadvantages
It’s an inkjet printer that must be converted into a sublimation printer. It’s also smaller than other large printers and intended for pigment inks.
5. Epson SureColor P20000
The SureColor P20000 large format is Epson’s 64″ printer successor to the Epson Stylus Pro 11880. The Stylus is a popular printer for printing fine arts, and the SureColor P20000’s high resolution is based on that reputation.
Specs
- High-resolution 64″ printer
- 10-color archival pigment ink
- No need for black ink switching
- Pigment ink technology
- With a large 2.6″ printhead
Advantages
This product produces one of the clearest photographic prints in the market. It has high production efficiency and fast printing speed. It’s perfect for printing large canvasses while ensuring the sharpest print quality.
Disadvantages
Epson printers are relatively more expensive than other brands. The SureColor P20000 is a top-of-the-line printer with a hefty price tag.
FAQs
1. Can I convert any printer to a sublimation printer?
Yes. Converting a regular desktop printer to a sublimation printer is easier if it’s brand new. Straight from the box, you only need to fill the ink tanks with sublimation inks, and you’re good to go.
If it’s a used printer, you may have to get your hands a little messy. Drain all the old ink from the tank and run power cleaning for best results. Finally, refill the printer with sublimation inks.
2. What can I create with a sublimation printer?
Sublimation printing is very versatile. You can print on soft substrates like fabric, bags, blankets, or a mousepad. It also works with rigid substrates like mugs, jars, and tumblers.
3. Can I use any heat press or heat source to press my sublimation transfers?
Using a dedicated heat press for sublimation is advisable. Sublimation must melt the ink, so it needs accurate temperature and pressure. Using a heat press machine suitable for your project size and needs is best. While iron-on vinyl printing can work with a home iron, sublimation is more tricky.
4. Can I sublimate on any t-shirt?
Sublimation printing is best suited for 100% polyester or a 60-40 polyester-cotton blend. This method is intended for synthetic fibers where the ink bonds better. You may sublimate on pure cotton through special processes and supplies, but doing so does not yield the best quality and durability.
5. Will my sublimation image fade after washing?
No. Sublimation prints are fade-proof and do not peel. This is due to the technique’s ability to melt and embed the ink into the fabric fibers. In other methods, the print sticks to the surface. But sublimation ingrains the dyes, making them part of the material. The result is a smooth and wash-resistant transfer.
6. How is sublimation different from heat transfer vinyl (iron-on vinyl)?
Sublimation produces more durable prints. It achieves this by dyeing the fabric through high heat. Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) only bonds the design on the fabric’s surface.
Another difference is their substrate viability. Sublimation is best used on 100% polyester or polyester blend fabrics. HTV works on 100% cotton but is also workable with full polyester shirts.
7. What brand of sublimation transfer paper do you prefer?
LINKO sublimation transfer papers are of superb and reliable quality. They guarantee smooth printing with minimal wrinkling. Color accuracy is also sharp, without traces of white and black spots. LINKO sublimation papers ensure a higher transfer rate with the least ink wastage.
