KEY INNOVATION STORIES
Transforming Textiles
Transforming Textile Production
The late 1990s marked a turning point in the textile industry with digital printing disrupting the established traditional manufacturing methods. Until then, textile production relied heavily on labour-intensive processes that required costly screens, extensive water consumption, and long lead times. With the emergence of new requirements, such as greater customisation, shorter lead times, and more sustainable production practices, from the fashion and design industries, digital printing was the most viable solution.
The Mimaki Tx-1600S
At the forefront of the textile digital printing revolution was Mimaki’s Tx-1600S, a pioneering digital textile printer that set new standards for precision, colour vibrancy, and efficiency.
For the first time, users could directly print onto fabrics with unprecedented quality using the Tx-1600S, proving that digital textile printing was not just a niche innovation but transformative for the entire industry.
Taking Textiles Digital
The breakout of digital printing for textiles completely changed the game, introducing unprecedented flexibility, allowing for on-demand production, intricate patterns without setup limitations, and a more sustainable approach by reducing water and ink waste.
Among the pioneering technologies of this era, Mimaki’s Tx-1600S hit the market in 1998 and allowed designers and manufacturers to experiment with new designs, create short-run collections, and respond to trends faster than ever before. This technology ultimately laid the foundation for the digital textile revolution that continues to shape the industry today.
Innovating for a Greener Future
Building on the legacy of the Tx-1600S, Mimaki continued to release innovation after innovation for the rapidly evolving textile industry. With concerns around the environmental impact of textiles and fashion front of mind, Mimaki launched TRAPIS (Transfer Pigment Ink System), a next-generation digital transfer printing system, in 2024.
TRAPIS removes water-intensive steps from the production cycle, saving up to 90% of wastewater compared to traditional print methods. A perfect fit for both large-scale manufacturers and small print shops – large businesses can integrate TRAPIS with their existing dye sublimation processes to improve productivity, while smaller enterprises can use it to extend product lines with high-margin products.
Introducing Neo-Chromato
New to the scene is Mimaki’s one-of-a-kind Neo-Chromato Process, which reuses coloured polyester textiles – an incredibly complex material to recycle when compared to natural fibres. This breakthrough technology decolorises polyester textiles that have been coloured using dye sublimation technologies, allowing the material to be reprinted or dyed instantly.
Contributing to a smaller circular economy, there is no limit to how many times polyester may be treated with Neo-Chromato.
Discover the TxF Series: The solution for reliable DTF printing
Introducing Mimaki’s TxF series of DTF printers, including the newly launched TxF300-1600 (large), the high-speed TxF300-75 and the entry-level TxF150-75. Each TxF model uses advanced Mimaki technology and ECO PASSPORT-certified inks to ensure high-quality, skin-friendly prints, while solving common DTF problems such as ink leakage and sedimentation. Mimaki’s TxF series delivers reliable performance with extended technical support, ideal for any DTF printing requirement.
Mimaki is Transforming Textile Production
Like the clothes we wear to the couch we sit on; Mimaki’s textile technology is tailored to meet customer needs, offering solutions that balance creativity, efficiency and sustainability.
Mimaki’s Print Different campaign traces Mimaki’s past, present and future of innovation and transformation across the past 50 years, to build a more sustainable and forward-thinking printing industry. Click here to read more about what Mimaki is doing for the Sign Graphics and Customisation sector.
What Sustainability Means To Us
Innovation
Developing solutions that minimise environmental impact.
Operation
Implementing policies that improve efficiency and reduce waste.
Community
Supporting our communities to create positive social impact.
Ready to print different?
Connect with our experts to discover how Mimaki’s sustainable printing solutions can help transform your business. Whether you’re looking to reduce water use, cut energy consumption, or minimize waste, we’re here to help.
