Tried & Tested

When Nur launched its FabriGraph dye-sublimation press it signalled a change for the textile market and capitalised on an old print process. EFI's response was the Vutek FabriVu 3360; a digital superwide printer catering to dye-sublimation applications.

Launched in 2003, the machine was quickly adopted by printers including Manchester-based MediaCo, which was the first UK firm to install the machine. Since then the FabriVu has managed solid sales, developing a strong install base across Europe.

The FabriVu can print on uncoated textiles, and will still maintain the look and feel of that particular textile, says Emmanuel Swolfs, EFI regional sales manager. The machine was able to print on textiles including poplin and polyester materials and so, according to Swolfs, was a viable alternative for screen printing applications such as printing onto flags, banners, exhibition graphics, wall murals, stage graphics and vinyl. You couldn’t get the same colour quality on coated materials that you get with the FabriVu, adds Swolfs.

Wide range
Unlike digital printing, dye-sublimation means the ink does not sit on top of the substrate but is absorbed into the fabric, making it a washable solution. Under high pressure and temperature the dye ink turns into a gas that permeates the fabric and solidifies into its fibres.

The machine could print on a wide range of fabrics by using the transfer process or directly onto selected polyester flag and poplin materials.

EFI’s platform model for the FabriVu was the Vutek 3360, but because it uses dye-sublimation, which is different from solvent ink printing, we had to adapt the filters, and put in an additional heating device, says Swolfs. The heavy-duty unwinder, which was an optional extra on the 3360, came as standard on the FabriVu.

The machine did well in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands but hasn’t had the same impact here. Swolfs describes the UK market as still emerging.


A new 3360 FabriVu will cost from £155,000 and a used machine that’s over three years old will cost around half that. While EFI’s previous service contracts did not include a guarantee intervention time, this is set to change in the next couple of months.

EFI will put customers wishing to part-exchange their old machines in contrast with customers wanting to buy. We tend not to get involved and leave the two customers to sort it out among themselves, says Swolfs. In some instances EFI will take back an old machine if there is no buyer or if it wants to refurbish and sell it onto the market.

EFI fits an electronic device into machines so it has a technical history. Check the quality of the rubber rolls or pinch rollers, as it is a good way to gauge its usage and how well it has been maintained over its lifetime.

SPECIFICATIONS

Max print width 3.2m
Speed 151m2 per hour
Max colours 8
Max resolution 360dpi
Media handling Satin, Poplin, Flag, Mesh and Sheer
Price New from £155,000; Three years old from £77,500
What to look for
• Technical history
• Pinch rollers
• Spare kit
Net weight 1.75tonnes
Footprint 1.3x6m