When Is the New Batch of DTF Printers Coming Out? Small-Batch R2R and Converted Epson ET-8550 DTF Options

Question

I saw your video about unclogging an Epson ET-8550 capping station waste tube, and I wanted to ask: when will your new batch of DTF printers be available?

Answer

For the new batch of DTF printers, we currently have small-batch DTF printers available for pre-order. You can find the A3 DTF XP600 13.2-inch / 335 mm roll-to-roll printer with an intelligent white ink system here: Pre-Order A3 DTF Printer XP600 Roll-to-Roll [https://bchtechnologies.com/collections/small-batch-r2r/products/pre-order-a3-dtf-printer-xp600-13-2-335mm-roll-to-roll-intelligent-white-ink-system-industrial-workhorse].

This model is designed more like a small industrial workhorse than a basic desktop conversion. The XP600 printhead setup, roll-to-roll design, and intelligent white ink circulation system make it better suited for users who want more consistent DTF production than what they may get from a converted consumer printer. The white ink system is especially important because white DTF ink settles easily. Without proper circulation or regular maintenance, it can clog the dampers, ink lines, printhead, capping station, or waste system.

We have also started selling converted Epson ET-8550 DTF printers. You can see that option here: A3 DTF Printer with White Ink Epson ET-8550 KevinV2 [https://bchtechnologies.com/collections/kevinv2/products/a3-dtf-printer-w-white-ink-epson-et-8550-kevinv2].

The converted ET-8550 option is different from the XP600 roll-to-roll printer. The ET-8550 is originally a consumer photo printer, so when it is converted for DTF printing, it can produce good results, but it still requires careful maintenance. Common maintenance areas include the capping station, waste tube, pump system, dampers, ink lines, and printhead. Since your question came from a video about unclogging the Epson ET-8550 capping station waste tube, this is especially relevant. If the waste tube or capping station becomes clogged, the printer may not be able to pull ink properly during cleaning cycles. That can lead to missing nozzles, weak suction, ink pooling, or repeated printhead cleaning failures.

For DTF printers, especially converted Epson models like the ET-8550, clogging can happen for several reasons. White ink can settle and thicken, dried ink can build up in the capping station, the waste tube can become blocked, or the pump may not generate enough suction. If the printer has been sitting unused, the risk of clogging increases. Regular shaking or circulation of white ink, proper humidity control, daily or frequent printing, and periodic cleaning of the capping station area can help reduce these problems.

If you are deciding between the small-batch XP600 roll-to-roll printer and the converted ET-8550 DTF printer, the best choice depends on your workload and comfort level. The XP600 roll-to-roll printer is generally a better fit for users who want a more production-oriented setup. The converted ET-8550 can be a good option for users who want an A3-sized DTF setup based on a familiar Epson platform, but it does require more hands-on attention and maintenance because it was not originally manufactured as a DTF printer.

Availability may change depending on batch size, parts supply, and production schedule, so checking the product pages directly is the best way to see the current pre-order or purchase options.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair because many of these problems require hands-on inspection. For that reason, we are not able to provide remote troubleshooting, repair suggestions, or individual support for printer repairs. We do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility: BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]. Because of high demand, repairs are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may take a few weeks before we can accept your printer for drop-off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we understand that our repair rates may not be the most economical option for everyone. For that reason, we highly recommend self-help through online research. A good place to start is YouTube or our BCH Technologies YouTube channel [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies]. On our channel homepage, use the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar to look for specific topics. I receive dozens of questions every day asking about videos for specific printer issues. Since we have created videos over the past nine years, it is difficult to remember every single one, so using YouTube's search function is usually the most efficient method. YouTube may also recommend helpful videos from other channels that can assist with your repair or DTF maintenance issue.

Thank you again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. We truly appreciate your interest in our DTF printers and your continued engagement with our videos and products.