The ROQ FEED, ROQ PEEL, and ROQ PULL: A Quick Guide to ROQ IMPRESS Automation Modules

If you are shopping for an auto open heat press or an automatic heat transfer machine, you have probably noticed that commercial systems don't come in a one-size-fits-all box. They are modular. You have to choose which pieces of automation you actually want.

For many shop owners, looking at a spec sheet for a dtf press feels like reading a foreign language. What exactly does a "Feed" do? Do you need a "Pull" or a "Pull Plus"? Can you get one without the other?

In this plain-English guide, we are going to break down the three core automation modules available on the ROQ IMPRESS. We will explain exactly what they do, when you need them, and when you don't, so you can build the perfect heat press automatic for your shop.

1. The ROQ FEED Module

What it does: The Feed is a robotic arm that uses suction to pick up a pre-cut DTF transfer from a stack and place it precisely onto the garment before it rotates under the heat press. 

When you need it: You need the Feed if you are running bulk apparel orders (24+ pieces) with consistent placements. This module is the biggest driver of throughput and labor reduction, as it completely removes the need for an operator to manually align transfers. 

When you don't need it: You don't need the Feed if you are a Print-on-Demand (POD) shop doing 1-5 piece orders, or if you are doing highly irregular placements. The setup time to configure the Feed for a 2-shirt order isn't worth it.

The Catch: To use the Feed, your transfers MUST be cut to a uniform size and shape. This means if you not ordering pre-made transfers, you absolutely must have a digital CNC cutter (like a Summa or Zünd) in your workflow.

2. The ROQ PEEL Module

What it does: After the garment has been pressed, the Peel module automatically grabs the edge of the carrier sheet and removes it in a smooth, consistent motion.

When you need it: You need the Peel if you want to maximize your labor savings. By automating the peel, your operator never has to touch the garment after loading it. It also ensures a perfectly consistent peel angle and speed, reducing spoilage from human error.

The Catch: The Peel module works in tandem with the Feed. You can purchase the Feed without the Peel, but you cannot purchase the Peel without the Feed. They are a package deal for fully automated application.

3. The ROQ PULL vs. The ROQ PULL Plus

What it does: The Pull module automatically removes the finished garment from the platen and drops it onto a conveyor belt or into a collection bin.

The Difference: The standard Pull is a basic removal system. The Pull Plus is an advanced system designed specifically for standard apparel (t-shirts, hoodies, long sleeves, pants, and shorts).

When you need it: You need the Pull Plus if you want a true "load and walk away" system. It is the final piece of the puzzle that allows a single operator to run the entire machine.

When you don't need it: The Pull Plus does not work with non-folding promo items like totes, koozies, or hats. If your shop primarily decorates promotional goods, you will need to manually unload or use a different configuration. Additionally, if your shop runs at blistering speeds (700+ pieces an hour), the sensor on the Pull's conveyor belt might actually slow you down, and manual unloading might be preferred.

How the Modules Stack: ROQ IMPRESS 36 vs. 48

When building your autopress heat press, you are limited by the base model you choose:

The ROQ IMPRESS 36 can hold a maximum of TWO automation modules. You must choose between having a pre-press OR a post-press station.

The ROQ IMPRESS 48 can hold a maximum of THREE automation modules. It can accommodate both a pre-press AND a post-press station simultaneously.

The Modular Advantage

The biggest advantage of the ROQ IMPRESS over competing htv auto heat press systems (like the Orbiter) is its modularity. You don't have to buy everything on day one.

You can start with a base ROQ IMPRESS 48 to immediately double your manual throughput.

Six months later, when your volume justifies it, you can add the FEED and PEEL modules.

You are never locked into a fixed package that doesn't fit your current workflow.

Ready to configure your machine?

Read our [Complete guide to automated DTF heat transfer presses] to see how real shops are combining these modules for maximum ROI.

Not sure which ROQ IMPRESS module is the right fit for your shop? Fill out the form below to connect with the ROQ Solutions Team.

We’ll review your current production volume, labor needs, workflow challenges, and automation goals to help you identify the setup that makes the most sense for your business.