Epson launches first direct-to-fabric printer in North America

The ML-8000 features eight, all-new 4.7-inch PrecisionCore printheads to deliver crisp, professional quality textiles at industrial level print speeds up to 1,744 ft2/hr. Leveraging Epson's most advanced imaging technologies, the ML-8000 accurately reproduces complex patterns, colour gradations and photographic-like detail to meet evolving trends and designer needs, the company said in a press release.

The ML-8000 is available for install with either Epson Genesta pigment, reactive, acid, or disperse ink – to best suit each customer's need and application and provide performance printing on an array of textile options, including cotton, viscose, polyester, nylon, silk, wool, and blended fabrics. The machine features a hot-swappable ink system that holds up to 20 litres of ink per colour and automatically switches from an empty ink pack to a new ink pack mid-print for uninterrupted printing.

Designed for productivity and reliability, this printer minimises downtime and simplifies maintenance with an array of user-friendly features. The ML-8000 is also available for install with new Epson Edge Print Textile workflow software for powerful colour management and seamless workflow integration and is compatible with Epson’s new production-management Cloud Solution PORT, providing an operational dashboard view of a production line with cloud-based printer fleet reporting.

“Epson Monna Lisa printers have long maintained a strong reputation and market position in Italy where they have been used to digitally print fabrics for some of the world's largest international high fashion brands. The Monna Lisa 8000 has been developed to provide that same high quality in a more attainable, easy to use package – enabling North American companies to print on a wide variety of fabrics locally for both short runs and larger volume orders,” Mark Krzywicki, product manager, professional imaging, Epson America, said in a statement.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (GK)