The debut for the Mimaki Tx300P-1800 hybrid configuration was during FESPA 2017, where I was able to see the printer in action.

Why is this printer called hybrid?

In March 2017, right before FESPA Hamburg, Mimaki revealed the Tx300P-1800 was able to use two types of ink simultaneously: dye sublimation and pigment inks. This opens a whole world of possibilities in textile printing.

This new ink configuration allows the user to print onto a wider range of fabrics with the same printer, so you can go back and forth using one type of ink or the other.

Mimaki Tx300P-1800 hybrid printer at FESPA Hamburg 2017. FLAAR Photo Archive.

The Mimaki Tx300P-1800 was officially launched on October 2015. This printer was designed as the successor of the Tx2-1600, its first version was announced to be able to print onto transfer paper with dye sublimation inks; and later to be compatible with acid dye, reactive dye, disperse dye and pigment inks.

The first time I saw the Mimaki Tx300P-1800 was at SGIA 2015 in Atlanta, it was using dye sublimation inks to print onto polyester.

Mimaki Tx300P-1800 using pigment ink at ITMA Milano 2015. FLAAR Photo Archive.

Later that year, the Mimaki Tx300P-1800 was able to use all five textile inks at ITMA Milano, Mimaki exhibited two printers of this model one with each ink type: disperse dye and pigment ink; as well as two TS300P-1800 printers using dye sublimation.

Mimaki Tx300P-1800 using dye sublimation (right) at ITMA Milano 2015. FLAAR Photo Archive.

Mimaki TS300P-1800 specifications

Additional advantages of the Mimaki Tx300P-1800

• Affordability: entry-level printer
• Simplified post-treatment process: you only need a calendar to cure either ink type.
• Cost reduction: one printer, two inks
• Ease of customization: appropriate for short runs
• Fast and easy sampling
• Ideal for designers, fabric workshops, and educational and research institutions.