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Mimaki Demos TRAPIS – A Groundbreaking Textile Printing Solution
Mimaki Global has announced worldwide demos of its TRAPIS (TRAnsfer PIgment System), a transformative solution in textile printing that combines efficiency, sustainability and versatility. Designed to simplify the printing process and reduce environmental impact, TRAPIS offers print service providers a flexible and innovative way to create high-quality designs on a variety of textile materials.
How TRAPIS Works
At the core of the TRAPIS system is Mimaki’s TS330-1600 64-inch inkjet printer, adapted with specialized firmware to handle TRAPIS’s unique eight-color, water-based pigment inkset (CMYK, red, green, blue and light black). This process involves printing designs onto coated transfer paper, which are then transferred to fabric using a high-pressure calendar
heat press. Unlike conventional dye-printing methods, TRAPIS eliminates the need for pre-treatment, washing or steaming, saving up to 90% of the water typically required for textile printing.
The TRAPIS method works on a wide variety of materials, including cotton, wool, nylon and polyester. However, the fabric must withstand at least 150°C of heat during the transfer process. Higher heat improves durability but can also reduce the color gamut. This two-step approach is compact, easy to operate and ideal for locations with limited space or sustainability restrictions.
Application and Limitations
While TRAPIS is highly versatile, it is particularly suited for home décor applications such as pillows, towels and other items that benefit from its textured finish. As Marc Verbeem, Supervisor Product Management at Mimaki Europe, explains: “The advantage is that you can use any type of fabric without needing any form of pretreatment.”
However, the system is less ideal for apparel. Although TRAPIS meets all certifications required for clothing, the textured surface is not as comfortable to wear, and the ink’s durability—limited to 5–10 washing cycles—does not meet the standards needed for wearable garments.
Summary of TRAPIS Target Market
Mimaki’s TRAPIS is not ideal for apparel due to the textured finish and lower wash durability. Instead, it excels in home décor markets, producing high-quality, vibrant designs for applications like cushions, table linens and other decorative fabrics.
For businesses focused on home décor or exploring sustainable, low-maintenance textile printing solutions, TRAPIS offers a compelling and cost-effective alternative. However, for those targeting the apparel market, Mimaki’s other textile solutions may be more appropriate.
Upcoming Global Demonstrations
Mimaki is inviting industry professionals to experience TRAPIS firsthand at a series of international events featuring live demonstrations and workshops. These events are scheduled as follows:
November 27, 2024: Textile Day, Netherlands
November 27–30, 2024: JIAM 2024 OSAKA, Japan
December 4–6, 2024: Open Day in Poland
January 14–17, 2025: Heimtextil 2025, Germany
January 23–25, 2025: Impressions Expo Long Beach 2025, USA
For more information or to register for an event, visit Mimaki’s website today!
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