Industry News

Mimaki Announces TX400-1800B with Adhesive Belt Carrier System

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:46:00 +0000

From the end of March 2010 onward Mimaki will ship its new direct-to-textile and dye sublimation inkjet printer, TX400-1800B that features a newly developed Adhesive Belt Carrier System. Now the new model Tx400-1800B which stabilizes flexible materials that tend to stretch and contract during printing is announced as an addition to the series following on from the Tx400-1800D that was launched last October.In the past textile large format printing implied long print runs and was mostly carried out on rotary screen-printing machines. Now increasingly on-demand short run production is required that can be better accommodated by inkjet technology. Inkjet printers feature economical, cost-saving workflow and production process. Only the exact amount of ink is required, which is needed for the application, thus decreasing water usage and significantly lowering the environmental footprint for production of short run textile printing in line with today’s demands.Until now there has been some reservation about productivity and running costs in digital textile printing, but the Tx400-1800B equipped with a newly developed Adhesive Belt Carrier System, which changes this perception. In contrast to the earlier model, this device stabilizes flexible materials that tend to stretch and contract during printing, thus enabling higher printing speeds as well as ink cost reduction. Tthe Tx400-1800B will be one of the most environmentally friendly large format printers for digital textile printing.
Shipment will commence from end of March.
"With Tx400-1800B, our environmentally friendly, cost-saving and outstanding series of direct-to-textile and dye-sublimation printers has been enhanced significantly with a highly productive model. Its innovative features and state-of-the-art technology enable our customers to broaden their portfolio while at the same time improving their operation costs", declares Kazuhide Yokoyama from Mimaki’s TA Business Unit.

mimakieurope.com

New Spectro LFP Tex for Textile Printing Market

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:40:00 +0000

Barbieri Electronic has announed the launch of Spectro LFP Tex : the new spectrophotometer dedicated to the digital textile and fabric printing market.
The digital textile and fabric printing market has some very special requirements which especially where measuring equipment is concerned.
Owing to the characteristics of the surface and the textile itself ,"standard" colour measuring devices have not been able to deliver accurate readings.
Barbieri Electronic now offers a dedicated spectrophotometer for this market - the Spectro LFP Tex which is a special version of the market leading Spectro LFP. The unique feature of the Spectro LFP Tex unique is its large measuring aperture of 8mm which is fundamental to the measurement of textiles. Thanks to this large aperture, the textured surface of textiles and fabrics will be optically averaged and therefore the right colour impression determined.
For easy mounting of the textile for measuring, a special sample holder is supplied, together with the measuring device. This holder prevents distortion and slipping during the automatic measuring process. As a result, measurement of textiles will be done fully automatically and at optimum accuracy. An upgrade to the worldwide unique automatic transmissive measurement feature for the Spectro LFP Tex is also available.
The Spectro LFP Tex will be available as from March 1, 2010.

barbierielectronic.com

M & R Introduces the Challenger III Automatic Textile Press

Mandy Goldfinch — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 22:55:00 +0000

M&R’s all-new Challenger III combines innovative patented and patent-pending features with the best ideas from over 20 years of M&R automatics.

All three versions of Challenger III feature Alpha 8-style electric printheads. Models 55, 70, and 110 offer respective maximum image lengths of 55 cm (22”), 70 cm (28”), and 110 cm (43”). Printheads are driven by fast, reliable electric-drive motors, and include no-tools front and rear print-stroke adjustment for versatility and exceptionally high production rates. Challenger III’s large new touch-screen control panel with icon-based labeling can display information and commands in numerous languages, simplifying press operation and training anywhere in the world.

Challenger III embodies versatility with its extensive variety of configurations; unrivaled set of standard features and patented timesaving, output-enhancing exclusives; efficient design; and high production speed.

www.mrprint.com

EFI Announces New Two-Metre VUTEk Superwide Printer

Mandy Goldfinch — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:20:00 +0000

EFI(TM) has unveiled the VUTEk(R) QS220, a direct-to-substrate, two-metre UV-curing flatbed printer with High-Definition Print (HDP) quality and superwide productivity that boasts lower ink running costs than traditional wide-format printers and unique application abilities that allow print businesses to expand into higher-end, premium-margin applications. The QS220 is ideal for businesses that want to fuel profitability by adding flexible, production-level equipment that will support their growth.
"More and more businesses are exploring out-of-home advertising as a way to reach customers, but unfortunately many print businesses are forced to choose between high production speeds and high image quality," said EFI VUTEk senior vice president/general manager Dick Wissenbach. "The QS220 is an all-in-one printer; it has the speed to print 16 4'x8' boards per hour as well as the ability to print in high definition. This is a great time to be involved in superwide format printing, and with pricing comparable to wide format printers, the QS220 is not only affordable, it's a smart investment for any print business."
The advanced technology of the QS220 allows it to effectively replace multiple wide-format printers. With this one two-metre printer, print businesses can produce the high-resolution images required for Point-of-Purchase applications, without foregoing the high-production abilities that has become an industry benchmark for leading print shops.
EFI, a manufacturing leader of digital UV inks, specifically designed the QS220 inks for the applications that enable businesses to increase production and profitability. By utilizing one ink set, the QS220 delivers enhanced reliability and performance on a wide range of substrates, with brighter, more durable automotive-grade pigments and greater flexibility, all at per-litre costs that are much lower than most wide-format printers. This ensures that businesses not only expand their capabilities, but also increase profitability.

efi.com

Mimaki Introduces Deskop Printer for Short Run Production

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 19:38:00 +0000

Mimaki Engineering Co. Ltd., introduces the UJF-3042, a desktop UV LED printer for short run production and printing of industrial products, novelties, cards and nameplates, electronics covers as well as label and packaging applications. The UJF-3042 is a versatile product with low investment costs and good print quality. The new UJF-3042 will be shipped in Europe from February 2010 onwards.
In 2004 Mimaki introduced their first UV curing inkjet printer, UJF-605C, that featuring white ink (under and overprint) to enable printing of bright, colourful images on all materials including non-coated media and transparent substrates.Now Mimaki introduces the UJF-3042, a desktop size UV LED inkjet printer that combines Mimaki’s highly developed UV LED technology with the engineering knowledge from earlier UV inkjet printers, which enables highly detailed, precise and brilliant images on non-coated substrates. The machine incorporates a newly developed inkjet print head that fits the requirements of this compact printer and enables an exceptionally good value for money proposition. Its cost-efficient features include lower energy costs due to the implementation of UV LED as well as broader media choices. Thus, the printing not only of cards, packaging, labels, stickers and display production but also novelties, nameplates, electronics covers and other industrial products is possible.
“UJF-3042 further strengthens Mimaki’s position among the leading providers of inkjet printers. As an entry model, the machine provides an extraordinary value proposition for screen printers, label, industrial application and sign printers requiring short run on-demand production and imprint capabilities”, declares Kazuyuki Takeuchi, head of Mimaki‘s IP Business Unit. “Our ground-breaking, future-oriented UV LED technology allows our customers to be once again at the forefront of the digital transition.”

mimakieurope.com

Roland DG Launches New Website

Mandy Goldfinch — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 19:10:00 +0000

Roland DG (UK) Ltd has announced the launch of its brand new fully-functional website. After consultation with a variety of both internal and external users, the new Roland website boasts a wide range of new features and benefits designed to help users and potential customers get the best possible information and support for Roland products.
‘We felt that our customers, both existing and new, deserve a better online presence from Roland’, says Jerry Davies, Managing Director at Roland DG (UK) Ltd, ‘Customers need clear and accessible information in order to make informed decisions. Our aim was to guide people through every experience with Roland online as simply as possible. We hope that the new Roland website and the subsequent ways in which we will evolve online will continue to make Roland the easiest company to deal with in the industry’.
One of the most noticeable improvements is the new online technical support centre. This latest feature allows users to access FAQs, help files and downloads for their Roland equipment as well as log support tickets for technical queries. Another new feature is the extensive applications pages, which provide new ideas to those already in business as well as those just starting out.
Davies continues, “This new Roland website not only enables users to find the information they need at the click of a button. Specific help files or media profiles can be made live within seconds, allowing us to respond quickly and efficiently to marketplace needs. It has been designed to grow and develop with the company, and we are extremely pleased with the results so far.”

www.rolanddg.co.uk

Marabu: complete product range of Solvent-based and UV-curing Inkjet Inks

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 22:56:00 +0000

Marabu supply a range of solvent-based and UV-curing inkjet inks to suit various applications and requirements Marajet DI-LS – Inkjet Ink with “Plug and Play compatibility”!
Considering differing ink volumes, available in cartridges or bulk system and offers the convincing advantages of “Plug & Play compatibility”: changing of the colour profiles is unnecessary, fully compatible with original parts, ink-change-over without prior flushing, combinable with OEM ink.
Marajet DI-JV - Solvent based Inkjet ink - Best in Class for Mimaki JV3 series! Excellent print quality and prolonged durability. It has a high colour density with an extended colour gamut, optimized resistance characteristics and vibrant accurate colours. "Now also available in 440ml cartridges."
Marajet DI-CP – Solvent-based Inkjet Ink – Best in Class for Seiko Colorpainter! Scores with brilliant colour shades and an excellent colourgamut according to EURO scale. Its exceedingly reliable printability in the fast 4 pass mode as well as fast drying properties allow for highest productivity.
Marajet DI-V - Solvent-based Inkjet Ink – the Choice for Superwide Spectra based Machines! Combines excellent lightfastness, fast drying characteristics and a wide colour gamut.
Ultrajet DUV-X – UV-curing Ink – the All-rounder for excellent ad-hesion onto rigid substrates! This UV-curable digital ink features brilliant colour shades, an excellent adhesion, and chemical resistance. A highly reactive formulation assures a fast UV-curing. Proven on many UV-flatbed machines. Liquid Laminates – for the protection of applications on rigid and flexible substrates.Excellent adhesion and chemical resistance for long-term outdoor applications.

marabu-inks.com

New Distributor in Croatia for Lancer

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 22:52:00 +0000

Lancergroup International is proud to announce the introduction of a new Excalibur ink distributor in Croatia. Kolor-Promet is located in Zagreb and has been in the silkscreen supply business since 2002. All of their staff have a great understanding of the screen-printing process and will be of immense help to printers of all levels. They currently stock a wide variety of Excalibur plastisol whites as well as 551 Colour Pro matching systems for direct screen-printing and hot split transfers.

kolor-promet.hr
lancergroup.com

Mimaki introduces the UJF-706

Mandy Goldfinch — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 20:00:00 +0000

Mimaki introduces the UJF-706 a new higher speed, higher quality UV curing flatbed inkjet printer

Miimaki Engineering Co., Ltd.,announces the UJF-706, a new higher speed UV curing flatbed inkjet printer for industrial applications that delivers exceptional high quality prints. The new UJF-706 will be shipped in Europe from February 2010 onwards.

In 2004 Mimaki introduced their first UV curing inkjet printer, UJF-605C, that already featured white ink (under and overprint) to enable printing of bright colorful images on all materials including transparent substrates. Later in 2006, the company introduced its successor, UJF-605CII, that already doubled the print speed and is renowned for its high quality prints on all kinds of coated and non-coated materials. This printer was well accepted in the industry and is widely used for short run production and variable data jobs on demand.

Mimaki now introduces the UJF-706 that improves productivity significantly while at the same time enhancing image quality even further. The new Mimaki Spray Suppressor system prevents that satellite ink drops can vitiate sensitive machine parts and enhances consistency. UJF-706 represents a new generation of UV curing flatbed printers for simultaneous full color and white printing that optionally can be equipped with a roll media print mechanism.

The maximum print size of the machine has been enlarged to 700 x 600 mm (UJF-605CII: 600 x 500 mm). UJF-706 also caters to three times thicker materials thus enabling printing on all kinds of material up to a maximum height of 150 mm. The machine is equipped with an automatic optical positioning recognition system for centering of prints on small objects for imprinting as well as variable data printing. Two different ink types – hard and flexible – are available, whose use is determined by the customers’ applications. This caters to the needs of printers to broaden their portfolio of on demand offers for industrial printing applications. In addition, UV curing hard gloss ink is available enabling smooth finishes and furthering the machine’s value propositions.

UJF-706 decisively advances and enhances digital on demand production of items with the same or variable data printing.

Main features

1.    UJF-706 offers twice the speed of previous models when printing full color and simultaneous white
2.    Printing on non-coated materials of up to a maximum size of 700 x 600 mm and a thickness of 150 mm
3.    Vivid images even on transparent and colored materials due to white ink usage
4.    Already renowned ink and print quality of hard and flexible UV curing inks that are widely accepted in the industry
5.    Glossy finishes enhance print service providers’ value propositions and enable extraordinary results (only hard UV ink)
6.    Automatic four point optical positioning recognition system for centering prints on small objects
7.    Equipped with Mimaki’s new Spray Suppressor system that prevents satellite ink drops to contaminate sensitive machine parts thus enhancing consistenc
8.    Optional roll media handling and printing

“We believe that our customers will gain decisive advantages with the newly developed UJF-706 industrial inkjet printer that caters to industrial applications. Its exceptional print quality and features call for new applications to be developed or being transferred from screen printing”, explains Kazuyuki Takeuchi, head of Mimaki‘s IP Business Unit. “UJF-706 enables printers to differentiate themselves from their competition.”
a new higher speed, higher quality UV curing flatbed inkjet printer

mimakieurope.com

tot.rètol and Designjet L25500 Printer ; Versatility Expands Product Portfolio

Mandy Goldfinch — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 19:45:00 +0000

Printing versatility expands product portfolio and applications for solid revenue growth

Challenges:
Grow printing business by offering new products and applications while continuing to supply the robust output demanded for its core business applications
Eliminate outsourcing to save 2-3,000 Euro/month and increase profit margins by 50 percent
Offer printed output with lower environmental impact in "sensitive" environments
Solutions:

HP Designjet L25500 Printer using HP Latex Inks and HP Embedded Spectrophotometer with Advanced Close Loop Colour Calibration
Results:
Versatility from single printing solution to successfully compete for higher image quality business to grow revenue streams while still serving established customer demands
Profit margins on outsourced printing increased by 50 percent by bringing printing in-house
Increased customer satisfaction, faster turnaround and higher quality signage
Sell HP Latex printed output for "sensitive" environment applications such as health service sector, restaurants, fresh food stores or kids' toy shops
The year 2009 marked twenty years of business for tot.rètol, a sign printing shop based in Igualada, outside Barcelona in Spain. Joan Torrents, general manager and owner, has successfully exploited his business experience and know-how as a printing professional to steer tot. rètol through the economic downturn that came with the credit crisis, perhaps the most challenging period since tot.rètol started business in 1989. tot.rètol use "hard" solvent printing technology, a term commonly used among printing business professionals to distinguish it from eco-solvent printing technology. They print on PVC, banner and transparent vinyl for tradeshows banners, point of sale displays and outdoor store signs.

Eliminating outsourcing to double profit margins
Joan Torrents describes the business scenario that drove them to explore alternative printing technology to solvent-ink printing. "tot.rètol until recently was a solvent-only technology sign making business. Our solvent printers were adequate for our standard signage orders but customer orders sometimes include a portion of prints demanding higher quality. To ensure a single supplier solution and achieve greater customer loyalty we satisfied all their needs by outsourcing what we couldn't print on solvent. The problem is our profit margins were halved when we outsourced. The second problem is that reduced profit margins meant we could not compete for jobs that demanded only, or principally, high image quality. Also, turnaround times can double with outsourcing, excluding tot.rètol from competing for business with tight deadlines," states Torrents, concluding, "The economic crisis meant print volumes from core solvent-ink applications were down 40 percent. The HP Designjet L25500 Printer has allowed us to expand our applications and products and still serve our core business for robust, durable output. We are seeing our printing volumes grow strongly and we believe we can still do much more."

Making new profits
Joan Torrents explains how the HP Designjet L25500 Printer allowed tot.rètol to successfully compete for new business. "We recently bid for a high image quality job that demanded 150m2 (492ft2) of in-store signage up to 2 x 4m (6.6 x 13.1ft) on vinyl. The viewing distance was short so our solvent printer was not an option due to the low image quality it offers and possible banding. It was an important opportunity as the job was for an advertising agency - an ideal customer in terms of return business. By using the HP Designjet L25500 Printer, as opposed to outsourcing, we were able to make an extremely competitive offer to acquire the new agency as a customer and still make a profit. Delivery time was halved from six days to three by printing in-house. Without in-house printing it is very unlikely that we could have beaten the competition to win the job. The customer was satisfied with our printing service and we have become their first choice supplier," Torrents states.

Versatility offers more sellable applications
Torrents believes printed output with a lower environmental impact will give them an extra competitive edge for certain applications. "Printed output using solvent inks may be perceived as unsuitable in certain types of activities, particularly those widely used by the public. The health service sector, restaurants, fresh food stores or kids' toy shops are a few examples where environmental health and safety are of paramount importance. Printed displays in these "sensitive" environments represent an ideal application for Latex output from the HP Designjet L25500."

HP Latex Printing Technology represents a no-compromise alternative over tot.rètol's solvent ink technology. "A regular client requested some attractive 60 x 60cm2 (23 x 23in2) coffee table tops for their outdoor terrace bar. Output needed to be tough and weather resistant. In the past we would have used our solvent printer and then laminated the output. We printed the job on white vinyl at a higher quality and more quickly on our new HP Latex printer and laminated output to avoid scratching," Torrents says delightedly.

Innovation without complication
As a new, unfamiliar technology to tot.rètol, any initial concerns they had about its implementation were soon dispelled. "Our operator has lots of experience with large format solvent and the HP Designjet L25500 Printer was extremely easy to manage in comparison. It was very, very easy to learn without any special training. Media loading is easy even on your own. It is very clean and maintenance is automated. The printer adopts convenient, user-replaceable cartridges instead of the bottles and tubes used for solvent. You have to be careful not to leave marks with solvent," Torrents says, adding, "The print speed is great and prints are dry when they come off the printer so you can finish and laminate immediately. Ink usage is more efficient than solvent - up to 30 percent less per square meter. To avoid clogging, solvent technology has bigger printheads and regular cleaning and purging is required. Solvent ink is not absorbed so well on certain types of media. We've noticed poor adhesion on Backlit media so ink can run and print results are less reliable," Torrents claims. The embedded spectrophotometer and advanced close loop colour calibration are highly appreciated. "You get reliable results on any media you need to use. Automatic colour calibration and creation of ICC profiles is easy," Torrents adds, concluding, "Although this technology was new to us, HP is a prestigious brand with reliable, quality products and HP has offered us a qualified and professional post sales service whenever we have needed it. That gives you peace of mind."

hp.com

Mimaki Engineering Co., Ltd Announces New Dye-sublimation Direct-to-textile Inkjet Printer

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:41:00 +0000

The TX400-1800D will be shipped in Europe from February 2010 onwards.

Tx400-1800D employs an innovative feature that enables the user to adjust the ink volume that is jetted by the print head according to the type of cloth and design. This offers the possibility of printing different colour depths to achieve amazing design effects.

In addition, according to the print job, Tx400-1800D can accommodate both direct-to-textile and dye-sublimation printing employing sublimation media. It ensures that the machine’s possibilities enable broader product portfolios and higher productivity at print service providers.

Three different inks, dye sublimation ink, reactive dye ink and acid dye ink are available. Environmental impact is lowered as the ink is delivered in 2l-ink containers, whose outer case is reusable. This is also reflected in substantially lower ink costs.

The newly developed dye-sublimation ink excels in low vapour emission. In comparison with the former ink service providers will thus be able to control more than before the impact of vapour on the media as well as see a significant enhancement in image quality and sharpness.Mimaki has equipped the Tx400-1800D with its Bulk Ink System (MBIS) and its patented UISS (Uninterrupted Ink Supply System) to ensure automatic switching of inks when one 2l-ink container runs empty without interrupting printing. A maximum of four liters of ink (2x2l per colour) enables unattended printing for longer periods and to ensure bigger print runs.The Tx400-1800D for direct-to-textile as well as dye-sublimation printing thus combines modern technologies for textile applications that are the driving force behind the move from screen printing to on-demand digital textile printing.An additional model within the Tx400 series, that will be shipped from spring ’10 onwards, will feature an adhesion belt carrier system to stabilize flexible materials that tend to stretch and contract during printing.

“Tx400-1800D is a revolutionary development in uniting dye sublimation and direct-to-textile printing in one machine thus offering an unlimited choice in applications. We are happy that we can offer such a business enhancing machine to our customers”, says Kazuhide Yokoyama from Mimaki’s TA Business Unit.

mimakieurope.com

WP Digital to Sell swissQprint Oryx UV Printer in the US and Canada

Mandy Goldfinch — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:49:00 +0000

In the future, WP Digital, the Swiss manufacturer of high-quality digital printing systems, will serve the North American market (USA / Canada) with the “oryx” UV digital printer produced by swissQprint. A large variety of plates and/or flexible materials can be processed either in flatbed or roll mode. The portfolio expansion with the oryx printer is aimed at the graphical market and serves the needs of medium-sized businesses with the highest quality standards. WP Digital is taking over the exclusive sales and service for the oryx combination printer in North America. Ademo and service center will be available to customers and interested persons near New York, in Mahwah (NJ), starting in January 2010.

WP Digital covers the full range of applications in digital printing, with powerful industrial-scale large-format printers and industrial digital printing for glass and other materials, as well as the development of new applications for digital printing. swissQprint produces digital printers with high-precision and solid technology, both for the graphical industry and for industrial use. Almost anything can be processed, from the smallest plate to roll material and oversized media with a variety of properties, making the oryx an allrounderthat is unrivaled in its class.

High Standards of Quality and Service
Both WP Digital and swissQprint count on their many years of experience in the development and production of digital printing systems. All products are manufactured and assembled in Switzerland. This makes it possible to fulfill the high quality standards in the long run.WP Digital offers a well established service network; spare parts can simply be ordered via the Internet through the IPOS system. For WP Digital and swissQprint, service means satisfying the customer quickly and easily and actively supporting him or her in new business ideas in the printing area.

wp-digital.com

New Excalibur® Solution from Lancer Enables Foiling Effects with Plastisol Printing

Mandy Goldfinch — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 22:24:00 +0000

Lancer Group International has launched 801 Foil Proof : a clear coat plastisol that repels foil. Previously, foiling effects were only possible in designs printed with water-based, not plastisol inks. Lancer now has the solution: simply screen-print Foil Proof over top of the plastisol where foil is not required to stick. When you heat seal the foil onto the image, the foil will only stick to the parts of the design that are not clear coated.
Lancer recommend the following materials and technique:

Recommended Mesh:
80-110 t/in. (32t to 43t/cm) for image areas requiring foil.
160-200 t/in. (48t to 80t/cm), on image areas that don’t require foil.

Adhesive systems:
Use 845 Printable Adhesive for areas to be foiled or tint 845 PA with ink colour similar to foil.

Printing Procedure and Tips:
• For best results use 80-110 t/in. (32t to 43t/cm) mesh counts with a print/flash/print routine to “build up” the areas to be foiled.
• On non-foil areas, use a finer mesh. The goal is to achieve a thinner ink film than the area(s) to be foiled. A print/flash/print routine with 801 Foil Proof is also suggested for maximum foil resistance.
• The addition of 820 Puff Base to 845 Printable Adhesive creates a low loft, which results in a higher surface area for the foil to adhere to. As a starting point, we recommend adding 25% of 820 Puff base, by weight, to the 845 adhesive.
• Adding small amounts (3% by weight or less), of 801 Foil Proof to the ink will also aid in resisting foil. Be aware that adding more than 3% will affect viscosity and opacity.
• Gelling, instead of fully curing the print initially, will result in a much better foil transfer. Heat pressing the foil at 375° (191°C) will contribute to proper cure. You may also consider putting the foiled garment through the dryer again at normal curing temperatures.

Foil Application:
Set heat press to 375°F (191°C) - apply with very light pressure for 4-6 seconds. Peel foil slowly while still warm.

As always, testing is strongly recommended prior to any production.

lancergroup.com
discoverylancer.com

HP's New Designjet L65500 Produces 'Eco' Graphics for Portuguese Metro

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:53:00 +0000

B2R of Lisbon, Portugal, in association with Quiosque das Ideias, a company of the same group, has used its newly installed HP Designjet L65500 Printer to produce indoor and outdoor ‘eco’ friendly graphics for 52 Portuguese railway stations.

Utilising its new HP printer’s environmental benefits, B2R also maximised the Designjet L65500’s high productivity capability to complete the job on time, and produce a mix of customer friendly indoor and outdoor graphics. These graphics were used for station decoration, directional signage, customer information and promotional purposes.
“Because the Designjet L65500 uses water based latex inks, we are able to provide graphics that are not only odourless and eco friendly, but of high print resolution suitable for both near and distant viewing. This was essential in successfully communicating important commuter information. What’s more, as the prints are designed to be long lasting, they represented a great return-on-investment for the customer,” said Paulo Silva, marketing director, B2R.
B2R was commissioned to produce 210 graphics for over 52 Railway stations in Portugal, covering in excess of 300m² of media. Key to winning this prestigious project was the company’s new Designjet L65500, which enabled it to produce and install environmentally friendly graphics that supported the customers’ green policy, while better serving Portuguese commuters.
Facilitating an improved printing environment, water-based HP Latex Inks emit extremely low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Requiring no special ventilation, they also provide many of the benefits of solvent-ink technology, but without imposing the typical environmental, health and safety considerations. HP Latex Inks are generally not considered hazardous waste, but customers should consult state and local requirements and regulations.

hp.com

Zünd Crowns 25 Year Anniversary with Headquarters Expansion

Mandy Goldfinch — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 23:05:00 +0000

Zünd has evolved from small business to worldwide leading manufacturer of digital cutting systems

The crowning event of the company’s 25-year festivities: the inauguration of the latest expansion of its headquarters, the first Minergie-P industrial building in Switzerland.
In 1984, the company’s early days, Karl Zünd began distributing Wild flatbed cutters. Within two years, he had recruited a number of engineers to help develop new tool heads and other add-ons, such as an automatic advance mechanism for rolled materials. Five years later, he brought the first Zünd plotter, the P-1200, to market. Multifunctional tool heads and a systematic pursuit of modularity formed the basis of Zünd’s diversification strategy and, to this day, continue to provide the gateway to many new opportunities.
Today Zünd is the leading supplier of flatbed cutters to the graphics industry worldwide and a close second in packaging. In the leather and textile industries as well, Zünd is among the principal providers of digital cutting systems. “These days,” as Mr. Zünd sums it up, “we are virtually surrounded by products that come off our cutters—products that at some stage have been cut, routed, or scored with Zünd equipment.
”With its innovative products, Zünd continues to set milestones in cutting technology. A little more than a year ago, the company launched G3, the third and most advanced generation of Zünd digital cutters/routers.Just in time for the anniversary, Zünd Systemtechnik AG moved into the third expansion of its headquarters in Altstätten, Switzerland. The new addition is bound to attract nationwide attention since it is the country’s first industrial building certified as Minergie-P. It utilizes 5 times less energy than newly constructed conventional buildings and produces 5 times less CO2. Approximately 12% of total building costs went toward meeting Minergie-P standards. The building’s future-oriented architecture is a reflection of Zünd’s corporate culture of responsibility toward man and nature.
It combines economic efficiency with sustainability and harmony with nature.

Together with 125 employees and their families, business associates, local community and political leaders, Karl Zünd celebrated his company’s 25th anniversary and inaugurated the new Minergie-P building. He also took this opportunity to announce that, at the beginning of 2010, he would formally turn over Zünd Systemtechnik AG’s day-to-day operations to his sons, Mike and Oliver Zünd. Karl Zünd will maintain his leadership role in strategic planning, ensuring Zünd‘s continuity in maintaining local roots while exerting global influence. He will continue to actively participate in management and preside over the company’s board of directors.

www.zund.com

Hexis Racing AMR win the FIA GT3 European Championship

Mandy Goldfinch — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:59:00 +0000

HEXIS Racing AMR and their Aston Martins swept to their first major international title by winning the FIA GT3 European Championship

They won by a comfortable margin over 2008 champions Ford GT Matech. In the drivers’ standings, the crew of Aston Martin DBRS9 No.3 comprising Thomas Accary and Julien Rodrigues are the new vice-champions of Europe, while Frédéric Makowiecki and Manu Rodrigues took a splendid 4th place.
Hexis Racing AMR, based at the Nîmes Ledenon race track, was founded during the 2001/2002 season by Michel Mateu, president of Hexis Group. The team is today run by Clément Mateu and Philippe Dumas, two former racing drivers.
Hexis S.A. manufactures a full line of graphic vinyl and digital printing media used for sign making and vehicle markings. The company is based in Frontignan, near Montpellier, France with subsidiaries in Germany, Italy, Spain and the United States and with affiliate Hexis companies in the Netherlands, Switzerland and the UK. The group exports some 40% of its sales to over 40 countries worldwide, with a consolidated turnover of EUR 40.1 million in 2008.

hexis.com

Ground-breaking CtS Machine Produced by SignTronic AG

Mandy Goldfinch — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:58:00 +0000

SignTronic AG, of Widnau, Switzerland, recently installed the world’s largest, highest resolving CtS machine for producing screen printing stencils.

Siebdruck-Service Keck GmbH, based near Ulm in Germany, is a leading supplier of press-ready stencils for graphic and industrial screen printing applications. Keck contacted SignTronic AG about its Stencil Master CtS (computer to screen technology) to find out whether such a system could meet its demanding qualititative and technical standards, so that the maximum precision and extra large format screen printing stencils for high quality technical screen print jobs required by the plate glass industry could be realised.

Installation, in-house set-upt and training took only four weeks
The machine's main technical features are:
- Capacity to accommodate frame sizes up to 4600 x 11000 mm
- Exposure area of up to 4100mm x 9000
- Handles frames weighing 300kg and over
- Consistent resolution in exposure wide format: in both axes, 1270 x 1270 dpi
- 2400 x 2400 dpi exposure resolution demonstrably achievable for smaller frame sizes
- Exposure level can be accurately repeated from stencil to stencil, right down to the last micrometre.
- Weight: 13 tonnes
- Exposure speed : approximately 40 square metres of image area can be produced on a 68 mesh, coated 2:2, using a diazo-monomer emulsion with a 10 micrometre stencil thickness - in only 2.5 hours
- Light source: high intensity UV exposure system for optimum through-curing of all films and emulsions currently on the market

By supplying the ultra large format StencilMaster direct exposure unit, SignTronic, in co-operation with their client, Keck GmbH, is proud to have made an important contribution to cost saving, modernisation and automatisation of the stencil production process.

sign-tronic.ch

New Emulsion for High Spec Printed Electronics, from MacDermid Autotype

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 20:01:00 +0000

MacDermid Autotype, manufacturer of specialised hard coated films and chemicals, has launched Autotype Plus Gold, a photo-stencil emulsion specifically designed for high tolerance electronics screen printing.
The new ultra fine emulsion is ideal for Photovoltaics, LCD displays, medical bio-sensors, and other demanding printed electronics applications.
Autotype Plus Gold is primarily designed for use on steel meshes, where the distinctive red colour reduces edge effects (reflection nodes) to ensure superb print quality. In addition, the emulsion is highly resistant to the abrasive inks used for Solar Cell manufacture, to give the longest possible print life without track growth during the run. Ultra fine filtration, minimal shrink back, optimised print definition/resolution, and maximum resistance to breakdown are just a few of the benefits that Autotype Plus Gold offers for printed electronics applications.
Autotype Plus Gold is now available in 1 litre and 4 litre containers from MacDermid Autotype distributors.

macdermidautotype.com

Hexis New Printable Cast Vinyl Film for Wall Graphics

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:50:00 +0000

The VCSR100WG1 is designed for direct application onto brick, concrete or plaster walls.
The compound is made of a highly conformable 50µm vinyl and it carries a high tack adhesive to ensure perfect adhesion on such irregular surfaces.
The VCSR100WG1 can be stuck directly on brick walls and will achieve the most stunning visual effects. Hence virtually any indoor or outdoor wall can become an attractive advertising space and thus a cost-effective alternative to banners or framed prints.The film can be used without laminate, however in order to achieve longer durabilities Hexis recommends the lamination of the vinyl with one of their cast laminates PC30G2 (gloss finish) or PC30M2 (matt finish).
Hexis also provides a set of dedicated brushes for surface preparation and efficient application.
The product comes in rolls 1370mm wide and 45m long and is suitable for solvent and eco-solvent inkjet printers.
Hexis supplies specific ICC colour profiles for most printer and RIP software combinations to achieve best printing results. Hexis also manufactures a full line of graphic vinyl and digital printing media used for sign making and vehicle markings. The company is based in Frontignan, near Montpellier, France

hexisgroup.com

Downloads Exceed 10,000 in First Three Months for Latest Fiery Command WorkStation Software

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:24:00 +0000

EFI™ have announced that the latest version of Fiery Command WorkStation® 5, has exceeded 10,000 downloads, since it was released on April 30.

Available to any Fiery® device user on System 6 or later, Fiery Command WorkStation 5 (CWS5) unleashes the power of Fiery servers. The software centralizes job management tasks via an intuitive, flexible interface that produces jobs faster, dramatically reduces operator mistakes, decreases waste, and can increase profitability for production printers. Additionally, with CWS5, users who already own Fiery imposition and composition options can upgrade to the Fiery SeeQuence Suite interface at no additional cost.
CWS5’s intuitive interface simplifies complex jobs, regardless of the operators’ experience, providing exceptional results at every stage of a job at two to three times the throughput speed of most competitive printing systems. It is compatible with most Fiery-driven engines in the production print environment, and supports identical features and functionality on both Apple® Mac® and Microsoft® Windows systems. Fiery SeeQuence Suite is comprised of document composition and imposition functions that simplify and automate labour intensive document preparation tasks via an intuitive interface.
With significant enhancements gained directly from customer input, CWS5 is tailored to the unique needs of the production print market, from quick and commercial print providers to corporate reprographic departments.
“Since we rolled out the new Fiery Command WorkStation and SeeQuence Suite three months ago we’ve seen tremendous end-user interest in the software. Over 10,000 copies of CWS5 are helping professional print operators gain more productivity from their equipment." said Frank Mallozzi, senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing, EFI. Fiery CWS5 software is available for free download.

efi.com

EFI Holds Another Well-attended Connect Users' Conference

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:10:00 +0000

Recent EFI Connect Users’ Conference chalked up another success last month, welcoming a similar number of customers to last year - a strong testament to the educational and business impact potential of the annual event.
The 10th Connect conference enabled leaders from around the globe to attend more than 160 educational sessions, test drive the latest EFI products,  voice their opinions at user group meetings, discuss industry trends, and network with peers.
"In these challenging times, it's great to see industry leaders come together to discuss business strategies and tools with a focus on positioning their companies to not just survive but to lead," said Frank Mallozzi, senior VP of worldwide sales and marketing, EFI. "Connect has always been a great venue, but this year even more so than others, customers came to ensure they're getting maximum value from their EFI investments and to explore new products and solutions."
The VUTEk® GS3200 superwide format UV printer was evident, with 60 wide format customers in attendance and multiple units sold during the conference.
The Connect lab also showcased the latest versions of EFI's print MIS (including PSI and Logic), web-to-print, proofing, and workflow offerings, and Fiery controller and software solutions. The lab highlighted end-to-end integration from Digital StoreFront®/EFI Pace to Fiery XF, and Fiery XF driving the VUTEk GS3200. For the first time, a special Fiery "dealer track" was among the educational sessions.

www.efi.com

Gardners Speeds Through Jobs with New HP Scitex UV Printer

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:42:00 +0000

Large format digital printer, Gardners, located in Cardiff, U.K recently became one of the first companies worldwide to install an HP Scitex XP2300 Printer, a 3.2 m-wide (10.5 ft) UV roll-to-roll printer designed for high-speed production environments.
The new printer is dedicated to outdoor signage and it offers advantages, including a combination of high speed and low ink consumption, particularly in billboard mode printing.Among the first major jobs that Gardners printed on the new machine was a huge order for a special safety mesh wrap.
The company received an urgent order to print 18 rolls of material to be used to clad scaffolding on a development in Bristol, UK. The material was supplied by the customer with each roll being 45 meters long with a printable area of 43 x 2 meters. The HP Scitex XP2300 Printer produced it in less than 11 hours, using Billboard print mode.
"In the past, the same job would have taken around 23 hours to print," says Kristel Moncarey, digital manager, Gardners. "Our customer actually preferred the extra smooth print quality of the HP Scitex XP2300 Printer, in particular the strength and brilliance of the colours."
Richard Gardner, chairman, adds: "The customer was extremely happy with the fast turnaround and the higher gloss quality finish. The safety mesh is a very complicated material to run on. But the HP Scitex XP2300 printed it extremely quickly and it looked absolutely fantastic." The company has also gone on to use the machine for other smaller format applications, such as banners and some fine interior signage.

hp.com

First MHM Open House a Success

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:09:00 +0000

MHM Siebdruckmaschinen GmbH hosted an International Open House Day 13-14 August '09 at its headquarters in Erl, Austria in response to the demand for up-to-the minute technological information on textile, graphic and rotary screen printing.

Guests attended from all over Europe and beyond. MHM experts were on hand in the newly-opened showroom throughout the event, demonstrating techniques to printers and answering questions. MHM sales and technical personnel presented on diverse topics covering graphic and textile carousel and rotary screenprinting, UV, IR and hot air cure drying, flocking. Guests were then encouraged to try out MHM’s screenprinting machinery for themselves.
MHM management (H. Mayrhofer, K. Wechselberger) spoke about the current projects as well as the future of MHM. Dates of the next MHM Open House Event will be announced soon.

mhm.at

Modified Adelco Jet Force gives Savings

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:38:00 +0000

Adelco modify framework of its popular Jet Force Dryer, now using steel, leading to reduced cost and improved structural strength. The Jet Force range of dryers incorporates a digital belt speed indicator showing exact time in the oven, Airflow from both sides of the oven ensures even heat distribution and the temperature deviation alarm allows total peace of mind. The dryers are insulated with a curtain of air for a cool exterior and are available with 5 belt width options, in gas-fired, electric or dual energy versions.
Also available are unique modular oven extensions with independent airflow and an everlasting lint filter, removable from either side of the dryer.

adelco.co.uk

Digital Printing on Transparent Media

Mandy Goldfinch — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:12:00 +0000

Barbieri have produced a White Paper entitled “How to measure Glass / Plexiglas”

Digital printing on glass, Plexiglas, backlit film and other transparent media has become more popular. Applications for printing on transparent media are various and produce eyecatching results. Measuring this kind of media may be difficult and needs experience as well as the right tools.
With the White Paper “How to measure Glass / Plexiglas” Barbieri electronic aims to highlight this topic and share knowledge gained in over than 25 years of colour measurement in order to obtain optimum colour accuracy on various media in digital printing.
The White Paper “How to measure Glass / Plexiglas” points out the challenges transparent media poses as well as how to meet them. Step by step, the entire preparation and measuring process is described. Furthremore, technical insight in measuring technology is disclosed, in order to understand how colour measuring works and to learn how to meet future measuring challenges.
This White Paper is available as a free download.

barbierielectronic.com