Skip to content
DTF Printhead Epson I1600-A1 Water-based

DTF Printhead Epson I1600-A1 Water-based

by EPSON
$949.99 - $949.99
$949.99
$949.99 - $949.99
$949.99
Description

DTF Printhead The Ultimate Guide to High-Performance Printing

The DTF Printhead is a marvel of modern digital imaging. It represents the perfect balance between industrial speed and desktop-level affordability. Built on Epson’s world-renowned PrecisionCore TFP technology, this printhead is designed specifically for the rigorous demands of Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing. Whether you are a growing print shop or a high-volume manufacturer, the i1600-A1 offers the reliability and precision needed to stay competitive in today’s garment decoration market.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore why the i1600-A1 is becoming the new standard for professional DTF setups. We will dive into its technical architecture, its economic benefits, and the essential maintenance steps required to keep it running at peak performance.

What Makes the DTF Printhead Epson i1600-A1 Different?

The i1600-A1 is often called the "little brother" of the famous i3200-A1. However, do not let that title fool you. It uses the exact same PrecisionCore chips and nozzle technology. The primary difference lies in the nozzle count and the physical width of the head.

1. PrecisionCore TFP Technology

At the heart of the i1600-A1 is a thin-film piezoelectric element. This element acts like a high-speed pump. It fires ink droplets with incredible consistency. Unlike heat-based thermal heads, the i1600-A1 uses mechanical pressure. This prevents the ink from "cooking" inside the head, which is vital for the longevity of water-based DTF pigments.

2. Nozzle Density and Speed

The i1600-A1 features 1,600 nozzles. These are arranged in four rows of 400 nozzles each. This density allows the head to cover a large area in a single pass. While it is slower than the i3200, it is significantly faster than entry-level heads like the XP600 or the F1080. It provides a smooth, "industrial" feel to your production line.

3. Versatile Color Configurations

The DTF Printhead Epson i1600-A1 is highly flexible. It can be configured for a variety of ink setups. Most DTF users utilize it in a CMYK + White configuration. The head’s internal manifold is designed to handle the heavier viscosity of white ink without frequent clogging.

Technical Advantages for Professional Shops

Choosing a printhead is an investment in your business’s future. Here is why the i1600-A1 stands out from the competition.

Variable Sized Droplet Technology (VSDT)

One of Epson’s greatest innovations is VSDT. This allows the i1600-A1 to eject droplets of varying volumes. It can fire small drops for sharp text and large drops for solid color fills. This results in:

  • Smoother Gradients: No more "grainy" looks in skin tones or sky backgrounds.

  • Sharp Edges: Fine lines and small fonts remain legible and crisp.

  • Ink Efficiency: The head uses only as much ink as needed for the specific detail level.

Superior Durability

The DTF Printhead Epson i1600-A1 is built for industrial workloads. Its nozzle plate is treated with a specialized coating that repels ink. This prevents ink from pooling on the surface. In a DTF environment where ink mist is common, this feature significantly reduces the risk of nozzle deflection.

Cost-Effective Scalability

For many shops, the i3200 is a large investment. The i1600-A1 provides a more accessible entry point. It uses the same connectors and similar control boards. This means you can start with an i1600 setup and easily understand the workflow of higher-end industrial machines.

Why "Water-based" Matters for DTF

The "A1" designation in the i1600-A1 model name signifies it is a water-based head. DTF printing relies on aqueous (water-based) pigment inks. These inks contain binders that allow them to stick to the PET film and eventually the fabric.

Standard solvent heads often fail when used with DTF ink. Their internal seals can degrade over time. The i1600-A1 is chemically compatible with these binders. It ensures that the internal channels of the printhead do not corrode or leak, even during 24/7 operation.

Essential Maintenance for Longevity

To get the most out of your DTF Printhead Epson i1600-A1 you must treat it with respect. A printhead is a precision instrument. Here is how to protect your investment:

1. Daily Cleaning Routine

Never let the printer sit idle for more than 24 hours without a test print. White DTF ink contains titanium dioxide. This mineral is heavy and tends to settle. Regular movement keeps the ink flowing and prevents the nozzles from drying out.

2. High-Quality Capping Stations

The capping station is the "garage" for your printhead. It must be airtight. Check the rubber seal on your capping station weekly. If it is cracked or dirty, it won't create a vacuum. This leads to the head drying out overnight.

3. Use Premium Consumables

Low-quality inks are the leading cause of printhead failure. Large pigment particles can physically block the micro-nozzles. Always use filtered, high-grade inks designed for the i1600 series.

4. Environmental Control

Your print room should be a controlled environment. Aim for a humidity level of 40% to 60%. If the air is too dry, ink will dry on the nozzle plate. Keep the temperature between 20°C and 25°C for optimal ink viscosity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the best heads encounter issues if the system isn't tuned.

  • Nozzle Missing: Usually caused by air in the lines or a dirty capping station. Perform a "head soak" with specialized cleaning solution.

  • Banding: This often relates to the Encoder Strip. If the strip is dirty, the head doesn't know where to fire. Clean your strip regularly.

  • Deflection: If the ink sprays at an angle, there is likely dried ink on the nozzle plate. A gentle wipe with a lint-free swab can help.

Feature Detail
Model Epson i1600-A1
Ink Type Water-based Pigment (DTF)
Nozzle Count 1,600 (400 x 4 lines)
Native Resolution 600 npi
Max Resolution 1200 dpi
Droplet Volume 3.8pl - 12pl (Variable)
Print Width 33.8 mm

Conclusion: DTF Printhead Epson i1600-A1

The DTF Printhead Epson i1600-A1 is the perfect choice for mid-sized businesses. It delivers professional, retail-ready results without the extreme price tag of high-end industrial heads. Its PrecisionCore technology ensures that your customers receive vibrant, durable, and detailed prints every time.

By investing in an i1600-A1, you are choosing a path of quality and reliability. When paired with the right maintenance and high-quality supplies, this printhead will be the engine that drives your business growth.



You are invited to join the DTF Bank world to stay updated on the latest printing techniques and find inspiration for your creative projects. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to catch professional tips, product reviews, and exclusive deals. You can also subscribe to our YouTube channel for hands-on tutorials. If you are looking for visual ideas for your next project, explore our Pinterest boards, or connect with us on LinkedIn for corporate updates. For any questions or support requests, feel free to reach out to us anytime at info@dtfbank.com.

Ink quality is just as important as tank design for high-quality prints. Our specially formulated inks minimize clogging and maximize color accuracy. Explore our UV DTF Inks collection now for perfect results on both hard and flexible surfaces.

Maximize your production efficiency by pairing your new ink system with the right media. High-quality films ensure better ink adhesion and sharper details for every project. Visit our UV DTF Film collection to find the perfect match for your professional printing needs.

Specifications

Product: Epson I1600-A1 Printhead (Water-Based / DTF printhead)

Technology: PrecisionCore Micro TFP (Thin Film Piezo)

Number of Nozzles: 1,600 total (4 rows × 400 nozzles per row)

Nozzle Resolution: 300 dpi per channel

Ink Compatibility: Water-based pigment DTF inks

Firing Frequency: Up to 21.6 kHz

Native Drop Size: 3.8 pl (variable droplet size supported)

Channels: 4 independent channels

Ink Firing Technology: Precision-controlled variable dot printing

Connector Type: Flat cable data connector (FFC)

Usage: Designed for DTF printers engineered for Epson I1600 printhead integration



Product Integrity & Quality

  • Brand-new and unused
  • Factory sealed in a vacuum-sealed silver pouch to prevent air exposure and maintain internal moisture balance
  • Manufactured in Japan by Epson
  • Fully traceable, with:
    Unique product number
    Production code
    Serial number on each packaging
  • Quality-inspected and verified by the factory


⚠️ Epson I1600-A1 DTF Printhead — Important Information & Final Sale Policy ⚠️

Epson I1600-A1 Water-Based DTF Printhead is part of our Spare Parts Category, which is non-returnable and final sale. It cannot be returned or refunded except in the rare case of a proven manufacturing defect reported BEFORE installation.


If You Believe the Item Arrived Damaged or Defective

To submit a defect claim, the customer must:

  1. Do NOT open or install the printhead
  2. Keep the vacuum-sealed pouch intact
  3. Provide clear photo/video evidence of the sealed packaging. Also an unedited unpackaging video of the product clearly showing the damage
  4. Submit the claim through Order Support Request Form on our website
  5. Follow all procedures outlined in our Return & Refund Policy

Claims without evidence or submitted outside the Order Support Request Form cannot be accepted.


Installation Requirement

Installation of this printhead is strongly recommended to be performed by a certified DTF machine technician.

Incorrect installation, wiring, or cable connection can permanently damage the printhead’s internal circuitry.

Damage caused by improper installation is not considered a defect and is not eligible for return or replacement.


Installed or Used Printheads Are Not Eligible

Once the printhead is opened, installed, or ink passes through it:

  • The product becomes permanently used
  • It cannot be returned, refunded, or replaced under any circumstances
  • Any print issues after installation may result from setup, wiring, ink, environment, or maintenance—not a defect

Policy Agreement

By purchasing this product, the customer acknowledges and agrees that:

  • All spare parts are final sale
  • Only sealed, unused items with pre-installation defect or damage evidence qualify for review
  • The Order Support Request Form is the required method for reporting issues
  • Installed/used printheads are not eligible for return under any circumstances
Shipping

At DTF Bank, we use trusted carriers to ensure your spare parts are delivered safely and promptly, offering shipping methods such as ground or air.

Orders for spare parts placed before 2 PM Central Time (CT) are shipped the same business day to get your products to you as quickly as possible. Orders received after this time will be shipped the next business day.

Shipping costs will be calculated at checkout based on the location provided, the shipping option selected, and the total weight of the purchase.

Currently, DTF Bank does not offer international shipping and ships exclusively within the United States to focus on delivering the best possible service to our domestic customers.

DTF Bank is not responsible for any delays that occur after the package is handed over to the shipping company.

While we strive to meet all delivery times, there may be occasions due to unforeseen circumstances where deliveries could be delayed. We appreciate your understanding and patience in these instances.

For more details, check out our Shipping Policy.