1. Digital Printing
Principle
Digital printing employs computer-controlled inkjet technology to spray dyes or pigments directly onto fabric, eliminating the need for traditional screens or plates. The process involves:
Design digitization: Patterns are created using software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator) and converted into printer-readable files.
Inkjet application: Microscopic ink droplets are precisely deposited onto the fabric surface.
Fixation: Heat, steam, or UV curing ensures color fastness and durability.
Key Variants
Reactive digital printing: Uses reactive dyes for natural fibers (cotton, linen), bonding chemically with fibers for vibrant, wash-resistant colors
Dye-sublimation: Transfers designs via heat-activated gases into synthetic fabrics (polyester), ideal for sportswear and banners.
Advantages
Flexibility: No minimum order quantity; supports rapid customization for small batches.
Eco-friendliness: Reduced water/wastewater compared to screen printing; minimal chemical use.
High resolution: Produces photorealistic images with gradients and intricate details.
Limitations
Cost: High initial investment in printers and specialized inks.
Fabric constraints: Limited to synthetic (polyester) or pre-treated natural fibers; poor performance on textured fabrics.
Speed: Slower than screen printing for large volumes (max ~150 m²/h vs. 1000 m²/h for screen printing)
2. Penetration Printing
Principle
This technique focuses on achieving uniform color penetration through fabric layers, ensuring front and back consistency. Key steps include:
Pre-treatment: Fabrics are desized, scoured, and treated with penetrants (e.g., JFC surfactants) to enhance ink absorption.
Ink application: Low-viscosity dyes or pastes are printed on the front, allowed to diffuse into the reverse side.
Fixation: Heat pressing or steaming locks colors into fibers.
Key Features
Dual-sided effect: Eliminates misalignment in multi-layer prints (e.g., scarves, duvet covers)
Advantages
Consistency: Matches colors on both sides, critical for reversible garments.
Cost efficiency: Reduced dye waste compared to traditional methods.
Compatibility: Works well with lightweight, porous fabrics (e.g., georgette, organza)
Soft hand feel: Suitable for delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon.
Limitations
Fabric restrictions: Limited to thin, open-weave textiles; poor penetration in dense fabrics (denim, canvas). Risky on drawn yarn defect.
Process complexity: Requires precise control of humidity and temperature during curing
Color intensity: Less vibrant than screen printing due to dye diffusion requirements.
If not summary comprehensively, welcome to add your thoughts or discussion. Thanks~