Heat Transfer Printers

Justin Armstrong
20 min readJun 21, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the top Heat Transfer Printers on the market! If you’re looking to create custom t-shirts, mugs, or any other item that needs a durable and vibrant print, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the features and benefits of some of the best Heat Transfer Printers available, helping you make an informed decision to elevate your printing game.

The Top 13 Best Heat Transfer Printers

  1. 6-In-1 Heat Press Machine for DIY Mug and Phone Cases — Swing-Away Design — Easy to Use — Create professional T-shirt designs with ease using the versatile 6-in-1 VEVOR Heat Press Machine, featuring a 360-degree swing away design, precise digital control, and user-friendly details.
  2. Professional Digital Tshirt Printing Heat Press Machine — Create personalized items with ease using this 8-in-1 multi-function heat press machine, featuring digital control, dual-tube heating technology, and a 360° swing-away design for consistent results and increased safety.
  3. Multifunction A3 DTF & DTG Printer for T-Shirts and Clothing — Multifunction A3 A3 DTF & DTG Printer Automatic Flatbed Printing Machine for T-Shirts, Hoodies, Pants, Hats, and Pants with excellent printing quality, convenient replacement, and reduced failure rate.
  4. Direct-to-Film 12H2 Transfer Printer: Compact, Affordable, and Versatile DTG Solution — Get stunning, full-color transfers on almost any garment with the compact DTF 12H2 Transfer Printer, offering 50 transfers per hour, training, and support included, all at an affordable price!
  5. Revolutionary Direct-to-Film Heat Transfer Printer with Record-Breaking Production Speeds — Revolutionize your fast fashion game with the Direct-to-Film 24H2 Transfer Printer, offering blazing-fast output and stunning full-color prints on virtually any garment and fabric.
  6. Intsupermai Heat Transfer Printer for Men’s Clothing — Intsupermai’s Double Position Pneumatic Heat Transfer Printing Machine, perfect for sublimation and heat transfer printing work, features an automatic air system for efficient performance.
  7. Whubefy Heat Transfer Sublimation Printer for T-Shirts — Transform your designs on various surfaces with the Whubefy Heat Press Machine — a precise, multifunctional solution for swift and even heating, perfect for bulk orders and customization.
  8. 12 in. x 15 in. Heat Press Machine for Sublimation — Create stunning designs on clothing, mugs, hats, and more with ease using VEVOR’s innovatively engineered 12 x 15 heat press machine, designed for ultimate efficiency in sublimation transfers.
  9. VEVOR 12x9in Digital Heat Press for Sublimation — Effortlessly transfer vibrant designs with the VEVOR Heat Press 12x10in Sublimation Transfer Printer, designed for T-shirts, bags, and various garments.
  10. VEFOR 5-in-1 Heat Press Printer for Sublimation Transfer Printing, Fast and Digital Precise — Experience flawless heat transfers with VEVOR’s 5-in-1 heat press machine, featuring fast and precise control, a scald-resistant surface, and a smart design that’s easy to use and set up.
  11. High-Performance Heat Transfer Printer for Custom DIY Crafts & Gifts — Upgrade your heat press game with the VEVOR 12 x 10 inch Clamshell Heat Press Machine, perfect for transferring vibrant patterns onto various materials, and featuring a smart digital control and comfortable design for a seamless experience.
  12. General Sublimation Printer EcoTank Bundle for Heat Press — Upgrade your heat transfer game with the EcoTank Bundle, featuring up to 2 years of ink, eco-friendly 4,500-page ink bottles, and hassle-free color filling.
  13. VEFOR 5 in 1 Clamshell Heat Press Machine for Vinyl Transfers — Experience vibrant, fade-free heat transfers with VEVOR’s 5-in-1 Clamshell Heat Press, featuring ergonomic design, digital temperature control, and compatibility with various materials for endless creative possibilities.

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Reviews

6-In-1 Heat Press Machine for DIY Mug and Phone Cases — Swing-Away Design — Easy to Use

Experience the convenience of this versatile 6-in-1 heat press machine, designed for DIY enthusiasts. With an industrial-strength clamshell that boasts a 15 x 15 in. heat platen, this device ensures top-quality transfer performance, thanks to its advanced heating technology and two-layer insulation pads. The stability is enhanced with a high-precision temperature sensor, and the accuracy is maintained with an automatic time controller.

The swing-away design allows for a full range of pressure, while the adjustable spring plate makes it a breeze to switch between various accessories. The user-friendly features include a durable handle and a digital controller with an LCD display, making operation a breeze. Boasting a 1400W power output, this heat press machine is a must-have for those looking to make their mark on caps, T-shirts, cups, plates, and more. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a 1-year warranty, and experience the thrill of creating your own designs with ease.

Professional Digital Tshirt Printing Heat Press Machine

Recently, I gave the 15" x 12" Heat Press Machine a try at my home. Not only is it super easy to set up and use, but it surprised me with the variety of items I can customize. From t-shirts to mugs, caps, plates, and even pillows, I found myself creating unique personalized gifts for my family and friends in no time.

One aspect that stood out to me was its robust and sturdy design. With features like its 360° swing-away arm, non-slip pull handle on top, and a strong base, it provided me with the stability and control I needed.

However, the digital temperature control and heat settings were a bit confusing at first, but I managed to get the hang of it. Additionally, it can be a bit heavy to move around after the initial setup, but overall, the product exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend this heat press machine for anyone looking to create one-of-a-kind gifts or unique personal items.

Multifunction A3 DTF & DTG Printer for T-Shirts and Clothing

This versatile printer is designed for both DTF and DTG printing, offering a wide range of compatibility with various fabrics. It eliminates the need for pretreatment steps for DTG printing on color clothes, making the process more efficient. The motherboard and printhead are easy to replace and relatively inexpensive, which is a bonus for users who may need to replace them in the future.

The standard A3 format suction platform ensures efficient ink absorption through DTF printing film and bronzing paper. Meanwhile, the A3-sized clothing hanger is perfect for printing white T-shirts and sweaters using DTF ink. The printer’s compatibility with various material types, including clothing, socks, shoes, masks, and more, makes it a valuable tool for a diverse range of users.

To get the most out of this printer’s potential, you’ll need a hot press, an oven, and a computer with a Windows system. Some recommended materials include PET film, DTF powder, DTF ink, Dupont color ink pretreatment solution, and Dupont fixing agent. Additionally, using bronzing paper for ordinary clothing can enhance its overall appeal.

The printing process differs between dark and white clothing. For dark clothes, the image is first printed on the DTF film, which is then powdered, dried, pressed, and cooled before the film is torn off and pressed again. Hot stamping/bronzing can also be used for these fabrics. White clothes require pretreatment with Dupont pretreatment liquid, followed by printing the pattern and applying the fixing agent before hot pressing.

This printer has dimensions of 760mm x 630mm, and it features a printing width of A3, a 310mm x 430mm suction platform, and a 126mm hanger height. With its ability to efficiently transfer or print on various textile types, this multifunction printing machine provides a solid solution for users looking to elevate their textile designs.

Direct-to-Film 12H2 Transfer Printer: Compact, Affordable, and Versatile DTG Solution

I recently got my hands on the Direct-to-Film 12H2 Transfer Printer, and it’s been a game-changer in my printing routine. The size of this little wonder fits perfectly through standard doorways, making it a breeze to set up in my workspace. The printer’s speed is impressive, managing to handle around 50 8"x10" transfers per hour — a big plus for any high volume job.

The ease of use is another standout feature; training and support are included with the purchase, so I didn’t have to waste time figuring things out on my own. This printer is also quite budget-friendly, costing only as much as an average direct-to-garment printer.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is the printer’s compact size for a high-volume commercial machine. It’s much smaller than other DTF printers I’ve seen, which is a definite advantage when working in a limited space. Now, let’s talk about the prints. This 2-head printer creates stunning full-color transfers that adhere to almost any garment, making placement a breeze, even for the most challenging of spots. The initial press time is only 10 seconds, and the transfers can withstand dozens of wash cycles.

The DTF-12H2 uses a dual head design, layering CMYK colors with a white underbase for perfect alignment. The PET transfer film is translucent, allowing you to see the design underneath when you heat press it onto a garment, making things much more efficient. The film is roll-fed and designed for hot peel, speeding up production. You can print a wide range of items with this printer, including t-shirts, polos, and even sports uniforms.

Overall, the Direct-to-Film 12H2 Transfer Printer has been a tremendous addition to my printing setup. Its combination of size, speed, ease of use, and affordability has made a significant impact on my workflow. If you’re looking for a direct-to-film printer that doesn’t take up too much space, this might just be the one for you.

Revolutionary Direct-to-Film Heat Transfer Printer with Record-Breaking Production Speeds

I’ve been using the Direct-to-Film 24H2 transfer printer for a while now, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! The impressive speed and machine output make it a no-brainer for anyone in the fast fashion on-demand market. The Raw Machine Output (RMO) makes it five times faster than its DTG counterparts, and it’s significantly cheaper, too.

One of the most remarkable features of this printer is the Raw Machine Output. It allows for stunning full-color prints on almost any garment and with various placements. I was even amazed at how quickly I could produce the prints, within just 10 seconds. And the best part? These prints can withstand the test of time, holding up through dozens of wash cycles.

To give you a better understanding of how this printer works, let me explain its process. The DTF-24H2 creates brilliant digital transfer sheets for various applications, from single-color shirt labels to full-size prints on garments. The PET transfer film used is translucent, enabling you to see the design beneath it before pressing it onto the fabric.

The PET film has a thickness of around 0.75mm, which enhances the transfer characteristics. Moreover, the film is roll-fed and specifically designed for a cold peel, ensuring the prints’ longevity. The powder adhesive coating, responsible for the prints’ soft touch, is moisture-seeking. It draws itself into the ink of the print and chemically bonds to form a strong permanent adhesive that bonds strongly to both cotton and polyester fibers.

Now, let’s talk about the variety of garments and fabrics the DTF-24H2 can print. It can work with t-shirts, polos, sweatshirts, backpacks, aprons, flags, and sports uniforms, as well as dress shirts made from combed cotton, ring-spun cotton, and even organic cotton. Additionally, it can handle polyesters, blended fabrics, poly-cottons, tri-blends, and polyester-spandex.

Overall, the Direct-to-Film 24H2 transfer printer has significantly improved my printing process, making it faster and more efficient. Its incredible output and versatility make it a must-have in the fast fashion on-demand market.

Intsupermai Heat Transfer Printer for Men’s Clothing

I recently had the chance to try out the Intsupermai Full Automatic Double Position Pneumatic Heat Transfer Printing Machine and I must say, it’s quite the powerhouse when it comes to printing. The air-automated working system made things incredibly efficient, as the upper heating board moved smoothly and effortlessly during operation. This made the machine perfect for both advertising and industrial uses.

The heating panel and working tables were specially processed to ensure the machine worked seamlessly in transferring images, which it did quite well. The Pneumatic Heat Transfer printing machine is ideal for sublimation and heat transfer printing tasks. It boasts a printing area of 400*500mm with a temperature range of 0–260C and a time range of 0–999s.

The device is rated at 110V/2.5KW and weighs 228KG, making it quite heavy and taking up a relatively large amount of space at dimensions of 1100*700*550mm. Despite its weight and dimensions, its powerful capabilities make it a valuable machine for anyone who needs to print high-quality images efficiently.

Overall, the Intsupermai Pneumatic Heat Transfer Printing Machine was a beast to handle but also quite rewarding for the results it delivered. Whether it’s for advertising or industrial use, if you’re in the market for a machine that can transfer images with precision and speed, this might just be the one for you.

Whubefy Heat Transfer Sublimation Printer for T-Shirts

The Whubefy Heat Press Machine is a versatile and efficient tool for creating custom designs on various fabrics like t-shirts, pillowcases, and bags. With its precise temperature control and time settings, you can achieve fast and even heat transfer, resulting in crisp and vivid prints.

The swing-away design ensures easy and even pressure between the metal plates, allowing you to work on various surfaces without the fear of faulty designs. This handy machine can save you time and money, making it a perfect choice for bulk orders and personal projects.

12 in. x 15 in. Heat Press Machine for Sublimation

This VEVOR Pro-level Heat Press Machine is a versatile and powerful tool that can tackle your sublimation needs with ease. With its 12 x 15-inch Teflon-coated heating plate, you can create stunning transfers onto clothes, mugs, hats, and anything else you can think of. The unique Mica heating components ensure uniform and rapid heating, which is perfect for producing high-quality results every time.

Plus, the 8-in-1 functionality of this machine gives you the flexibility to work on any project you desire. This heat press machine is compatible with many different products and brands, making it a great addition to your creative workspace. It’s easy to use and comes with everything you need for your first project, so what are you waiting for?

Start pressing and unleash your creativity with this fantastic VEVOR Heat Press Machine!

VEVOR 12x9in Digital Heat Press for Sublimation

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The VEVOR 12x10 inch Clamshell Heat Press is a powerful sublimation transfer printer designed for T-shirts, bags, garments, and more. Its reinforced accuracy features a clear LCD screen display and easy-to-operate buttons, allowing users to easily set desired time and temperature. The Teflon-coated platen is non-stick and stable, ensuring that edges don’t curl and preventing scorches.

The swing arm of the heat press can be rotated 360 degrees, enabling the heating element to move to the side and protect users from burns. The adjustable spring plate design evenly distributes pressure across the entire plate, and the pressure can be applied downward to enhance the transfer quality further.

With its large 12x10 heat platen, the VEVOR heat press is suitable for applying letters, numbers, and patterns on various surfaces, including T-shirts, garments, bags, and mats. The product’s size and user-friendly features make it ideal for personal and small-scale businesses.

VEFOR 5-in-1 Heat Press Printer for Sublimation Transfer Printing, Fast and Digital Precise

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Just last week, I had to chance to try out this VEVOR Heat Press machine, and let me tell you, it was a game changer for my DIY projects! Not only is it ridiculously easy to use, but it also heats up like a shooting star.

One feature that caught my attention was the long sleeve handle with a non-slip rubber grip. It made the entire process, from applying pressure to adjusting the rotary knob, as comfortable as sitting on a cloud. Plus, the swivel aluminum rod is such a thoughtful addition. It kept my arms and hands from getting singed, which is a common hiccup when working with heat presses.

The intelligent digital control was another stand-out. I got to create the perfect transfer at just the right time, with no more frustrating guessing games.

However, one downside is that the instructions could use a bit of a do-over. They could be more clear and detailed, especially since the rotary knob pressure adjustment is quite unique. But once you get the hand of it, you’ll be off and running like a pro!

Overall, this VEVOR Heat Press machine has been a game changer for me. It’s made my crafting projects not only more efficient, but also way more enjoyable. If you’re in the market for a heat press, this one is definitely worth a look.

High-Performance Heat Transfer Printer for Custom DIY Crafts & Gifts

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I recently had the pleasure of using the VEVOR 12 x 10 inch Heat Press Machine, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. As someone who enjoys DIY crafts and gift-making, this heat press machine offered a plethora of opportunities to create the most stunning and personalized items for my loved ones. The thick heating tubes allowed for seamless transfers, yielding vibrant, long-lasting patterns that never faded over time, making my custom T-shirts, pillowcases, and phone cases look phenomenal.

One of the many features that caught my attention was the rotating handle, which was ergonomically designed and equipped with a non-slip grip, ensuring that I always had a comfortable and consistent press, reducing the likelihood of burns. Additionally, the swing-away aluminum rod added an extra layer of protection to prevent any accidental injuries.

Moreover, the machine’s smart digital control system allowed me to achieve the perfect transfer time and temperature, accommodating a wide range of materials, including cotton, linen, poly and blends, canvas, ceramics, chipboard, and so much more. The simple three-step process made operation a breeze, and the results were outstanding: customized T-shirts that made me proud to give as gifts.

The product’s dimensions of 12 x 13 x 18 inches provided ample space for transferring designs onto various items, while the voltage of 110V ensured consistent and efficient performance. This VEVOR Heat Press Machine was truly the pinnacle of versatility and the perfect tool for those who love to create stunning, personalized items. The positive experiences from other users only solidified my belief in the quality and user-friendly nature of this fantastic device.

General Sublimation Printer EcoTank Bundle for Heat Press

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After being drawn into the world of heat transfer sublimation printing, I couldn’t resist trying my hand at it. I was eager to see how easy it would be to create my own unique designs for personalized items, but I was also concerned about the potential waste it could produce.

That’s when I stumbled upon the General Sublimation Printer EcoTank Bundle from Walmart. The bundle included a printer with EcoFi bottles for easy color tank refilling, along with sublimate paper and ink bottles to tackle the heat transfer process. Not only did it promise up to 2 years of ink per set, but it also claimed to produce up to 4,500 pages with just one set, reducing my need for constant refills and ultimately minimizing waste.

With the instructions in hand, setting up the printer was a breeze. I filled the EcoFi tanks with the proper ink colors and watched as the printer came to life. The heat transfer process was also simple, and it wasn’t long before I was designing and applying my own creations to various heat-sensitive products.

Overall, my experience with the General Sublimation Printer EcoTank Bundle has been positive. I appreciate the reduced waste, and the printer has made it simple for me to create unique and durable designs for my family and friends. However, I noticed that some users have faced issues with delayed delivery and unreliable customer support, which is worth considering.

Despite these concerns, I’ve been more than satisfied with my purchase. For anyone looking to get started with heat transfer sublimation printing, the General Sublimation Printer EcoTank Bundle is an excellent option. It’s user-friendly, environmentally conscious, and delivers the quality results I was hoping for.

VEFOR 5 in 1 Clamshell Heat Press Machine for Vinyl Transfers

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Imagine a heat press that not only delivers vibrant, fade-resistant transfers, but also makes the process effortless and user-friendly. This 5-in-1 heat press is designed with your needs in mind, ensuring comfort through thoughtful features like ergonomic handles and swing-away aluminum rods that protect you from burns. With a smart digital control system, achieve precise temperature settings between 200–450°F (93–232°C) for a broad range of materials.

Get ready to amaze your loved ones with customized T-shirts, ceramic plates, and more, using this versatile and powerful heat transfer printer.

Buyer’s Guide

A heat transfer printer, or heat transfer machine, is a device designed to print and transfer designs or text onto materials such as fabric, paper, or vinyl. These printers are widely used for various purposes, including custom t-shirts, banners, and other promotional items. Before purchasing a heat transfer printer, consider the following factors and pieces of advice to ensure you make the right choice for your needs.

Material Compatibility

It is essential to consider the material compatibility of the heat transfer printer you intend to buy. Different printers support various types of materials such as cotton, polyester, vinyl, and paper. Ensure the printer you choose can handle the material you plan to use for your projects. Additionally, check if the printer is suitable for single-color or multi-color designs to ensure it meets your requirements.

Dye Sublimation or Direct Printing

Heat transfer printers use either dye sublimation or direct printing technologies. Dye sublimation involves converting a solid dye into a gaseous state through heating, which then adheres to the material. Direct printing, on the other hand, uses inkjet technology to print the design directly onto the material. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to understand the differences and choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

Printing Speed and Resolution

The printing speed and resolution of a heat transfer printer play a crucial role in the overall quality and efficiency of your projects. Consider the printing speed if you have a large number of items to produce. Additionally, note that higher resolution will result in better-quality images, while lower resolution may produce pixelated or blurred designs, especially when using smaller materials.

Maintenance and Support

It is essential to look for printers with easy-to-clean, replaceable print heads and a user-friendly interface for maintenance purposes. Check if the printer provides resources such as instructional videos or tutorials to help you troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Additionally, consider the quality of customer support, warranty terms, and availability of spare parts.

FAQ

What is a Heat Transfer Printer?

A heat transfer printer is a specialized device that applies heat-sensitive ink directly onto another material, typically fabric or paper. This process allows for the print of vibrant and long-lasting images on various surfaces. It is commonly used for creating custom t-shirts, promotional items, and even home decors.

Heat transfer printing is a popular alternative to traditional screen printing due to its affordability and ease of use. With this technology, users can print intricate designs on demand, without the need for screen production or the risk of errors associated with manual screen-printing methods. The result is a high-quality, durable print with excellent color reproduction.

What types of surfaces can be used with a Heat Transfer Printer?

Heat transfer printers can be used on a variety of surfaces, depending on the specific printer’s capabilities. Popular surfaces include cotton t-shirts, polyester blends, canvas, tote bags, and even paper-based materials. The choice of surface will depend on the user’s intended application and the printer’s compatibility. It is essential to consider the printer’s heat settings and ink types to ensure optimal results when printing on different materials.

Different types of printers will have varying capabilities, so it is crucial to select a printer that is compatible with the surface you plan to print on. Always refer to the printer’s user manual or specifications list to determine which materials can be used with the device. This will help to achieve the best print quality and ensure long-lasting results.

How does the Heat Transfer Printing process work?

The heat transfer printing process involves using heat-sensitive ink, also known as thermal ink, to transfer a design from a print head onto another surface, such as fabric or paper. The ink is applied with high precision and adheres to the printing medium through a combination of heat, pressure, and time. The printer’s print head is specially designed to apply the correct amount of heat to ensure that the ink is evenly deposited onto the surface.

Once the ink has been transferred to the desired material, it must be cured using heat. This curing process helps to bind the ink to the surface, making it more durable and less prone to fading. After the curing process, the heat transfer printer allows for a cooling period to prevent any damage to the printed design. This entire process results in a vibrant and long-lasting print, ideal for creating customized merchandise and promotional items.

What are the advantages of using a Heat Transfer Printer over other printing methods?

Heat transfer printing offers several advantages over traditional printing methods, particularly when it comes to creating custom merchandise and promotional items. The primary benefits are as follows:

  1. Print-to-order versatility: Heat transfer printers allow for the efficient production of custom items on-demand, eliminating the need for large inventory investments. 2) Reduced costs: Compared to screen printing, heat transfer printing is a more affordable option, making it suitable for smaller businesses and hobbyists alike. 3) High-quality prints: Heat transfer printers produce vibrant and long-lasting prints, ensuring that the intended design remains vivid and detailed. 4) Low risk of errors: With heat transfer printing, there are fewer manual steps involved, resulting in fewer errors and a more consistent print.

Overall, heat transfer printing is an effective and affordable solution for creating custom merchandise and promotional items. Its versatile nature, combined with its ability to produce high-quality prints, makes it an attractive option for businesses and individuals alike seeking to make a lasting impression.

Can I use Heat Transfer Printer for home décor items?

Yes, you can use a heat transfer printer for home décor items. Many printers on the market are compatible with a variety of fabrics, including those commonly used for home décor, such as cotton, linen, and polyester blends. The key to achieving the best results when printing home décor items is to choose a printer that is compatible with the materials you plan to use and to follow the printer’s recommended heat settings and ink types. By doing this, you can ensure that your printed designs are of high quality and will last for a long time.

Heat transfer printing is an excellent choice for creating customized cushion covers, throw pillows, wall hangings, and other decorative items. By producing prints on-demand, you can have a unique and personalized piece without the need for expensive and time-consuming production methods like screen printing. Moreover, the process is relatively easy to learn, making it an ideal option for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.

What should I consider when selecting a Heat Transfer Printer for my home or business?

When selecting a heat transfer printer for your home or business, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the right device for your needs. These include:

  1. Material compatibility: Make sure that the printer you select is compatible with the materials you wish to print on, such as fabrics or paper-based products. 2) Print quality and resolution: Evaluate the printer’s print quality and resolution to ensure that it produces vibrant, detailed prints. 3) Printer speed and productivity: Consider the printer’s speed and productivity to determine if it can handle your desired workload.

It is also essential to consider factors such as the printer’s warranty, user-friendly interface, and available customer support. Factoring all of these aspects into your decision-making process will help you make an informed choice and ensure that you select a heat transfer printer that meets your home or business needs.

As an Amazon Affiliate™, we may earn through qualified purchases!

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