Achieving wash-durable Direct-to-Garment (DTG) prints and Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers requires complete thermal curing. Water-based digital inks demand high CFM airflow and precise temperature stabilization to evaporate moisture from deep within fabric fibers. Relying solely on heat presses creates severe production bottlenecks and inconsistent washability. Sourcing an industrial DTG conveyor dryer ensures complete ink curing across continuous production runs while maximizing daily garment output.
High-CFM Jet-Air Technology for Continuous Production
Lawson Workhorse Group (LWG) manufactures commercial digital curing dryers engineered for maximum energy efficiency, precise temperature control, and multi-shift durability:
- Compact Electric Curing: Cure DTG and DTF prints efficiently in space-constrained shops using versatile electric units like the Digi-Star Electric Conveyor Dryer and Mini-Digital Dryer.
- High-Volume Gas Curing: Slash monthly energy utility costs while processing hundreds of garments per hour with high-CFM gas platforms like the Digi-Star Gas Conveyor Dryer and The Terminal Dryer.
- Split-Belt Dual Temperature Production: Run screen printed garments and water-based DTG prints simultaneously at independent belt speeds using split-belt conveyor configurations.
- Combined Screen Print & Digital Curing: Handle hybrid production schedules with versatile dryers like the Omega Express Conveyor Dryer.
As an American equipment manufacturer, Lawson Workhorse Group builds custom industrial dryers in the USA, backed by comprehensive warranties, technical service, and fast shipping out of facilities in St. Louis, MO, and Atlanta, GA.
DTG & Digital Conveyor Dryers: FAQ
Why do DTG inks require forced jet-air conveyor dryers?
Direct-to-Garment inks are water-based and require high-velocity forced air combined with consistent heat to evaporate water carrier agents and cure the ink binder into shirt fibers. Infrared heat alone without high CFM airflow cannot properly evacuate moisture from heavy cotton or pretreated garments.
Should I choose an electric or gas DTG conveyor dryer?
Electric conveyor dryers like the Mini-Digital are cost-effective and easier to install for small-to-medium shops with limited gas lines. Gas dryers like the Digi-Star Gas are recommended for high-volume commercial production, offering lower operating utility costs and faster thermal recovery when processing damp pretreated garments.
Can I use a DTG conveyor dryer for screen printed and DTF garments?
Yes. Lawson digital conveyor dryers feature digital temperature controllers and variable belt speed adjustments, allowing operators to easily cure plastisol screen print inks, water-based DTG prints, and heat-cured DTF transfer powders on a single machine.
What belt width and chamber length do I need for my shop?
Chamber length determines dwell time and hourly output capacity. For single-printer DTG setups, a compact dryer like the Mini-Digital provides ample production capacity. For multi-printer setups or production facilities running industrial DTG platforms, wider belt options (36" to 60") with longer heat chambers ensure maximum throughput without bottlenecks.
Does Lawson offer custom conveyor dryer build configurations?
Yes. Lawson Workhorse Group manufactures custom chamber lengths, belt widths, split-belt options, and directional air flow configurations, backed by technical support out of our distribution hubs in St. Louis, MO, and Atlanta, GA.