DTF & Health: What do you need to know?
Everything you need to know to protect yourself effectively
The DTF (Direct To Film) technique has become, in the space of a few years, the reference technique for the personalization of textiles, even going so far as to compete with other techniques already well established on the market.
However, this technology is still relatively recent and we do not yet have enough perspective to know all the undesirable effects it may cause.
However, if you are familiar with the DTF creation process, you know that this technique releases vapors and fumes. It is therefore natural to question the nature and impact of these fumes on our health.
As both a supplier of these printing solutions and a producer of DTF prints, it was essential for Créadhésif to alert you to the risks of this technique and give you all the keys to ensure safe working conditions.
A dusty printing process
The DTF (Direct-to-Fly) technique, as its name suggests, involves printing an image directly onto a film. Once the ink is applied to the film, it passes through a powder dispenser where powder falls to adhere to the still-wet ink. During this step, dust may be released from the dispenser and become airborne.
Next, the powdered graphic automatically passes through a drying tunnel where it is heated to a high temperature. This stage is likely to release the most fumes and particles. The vapors emitted at this time can quickly fill your premises with smoke. Without a suitable ventilation system, you risk being severely affected by the fumes. These fumes contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), particles that can cause problems for the eyes, skin, and lungs.
What are the consequences for our health?
In the event of improper handling or a defective machine, DTF can pose a risk to your health. Inhaling large quantitiesof fumes can be dangerous and cause respiratory discomfort or even more serious respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis. People with asthma may experience attacks while working in a smoky and poorly ventilated environment.
The fumes can also lead to other symptoms such as eye and skin irritation, headaches, or chronic fatigue.
However, you may not experience any of the problems mentioned above. Tolerance to fumes varies from person to person, but regular and inappropriate exposure could trigger allergies. Nevertheless, some people will not develop any symptoms and may adapt perfectly well to the DTF work environment.
Furthermore, the amount of fumes emitted from DTF printing comes from the visuals you print. Large solid areas of color will generate more fumes than small lettering or logos.
How to protect yourself properly?
To prevent any risk, here are some tips you can follow to protect yourself during the production of your DTF prints.
Air quality and ventilation are essential for a safe working environment. When working with a DTF (printer + powder) solution, it is imperative to open the windows to allow fumes to escape outside. To determine if your work environment is healthy, there are measuring devices that will indicate the air quality and help you determine if you need improved ventilation/extraction.
Next, for optimal protection, you will need an air extractor/purifier to remove the fumes produced by the drying process. This machine must have an external vent to prevent particles from remaining in the ambient air of your room. It is essential to choose the right extractor based on your DTF solution (30 or 60 cm, 2 or 4 print heads, one or more machines), the size of your room , and your production.
Finally, for maximum protection, you can also invest in personal protective equipment such as masks (type A2P3), gloves or protective glasses.
By following all these safety guidelines, you drastically reduce the risk of allergies or respiratory problems. The key is to adapt the ventilation and air circulation in your room according to your equipment. The smaller your room or the more machines you have, the more significant the air exchange for it to be effective.
This technique is still quite recent and we recommend that you protect yourself and your employees in order to provide the safest possible working environment at the moment.
If you are interested in trying this personalization technique and are still hesitant to invest in a DTF printer, please do not hesitate to contact us directly by phone at 01 34 33 01 55.
See you soon,
