Working in partnership with cross-media marketing specialist TagG Informatique, SCREEN Europe announces today the commercial availability of a fully-integrated native IPDS (Intelligent Printer Data Stream) controller. Thus, enabling compatibility with the latest IS/3 and MO standard: DCA GA (Graphic Arts) accredited by the AFP consortium, for use with its range of high-speed, continuous feed printers in the Truepress Jet520 series.

Recognising that an IPDS interface is essential for printers needing to protect the integrity and confidentiality of data, Screen partnered with TagG and its subsidiary, R&D Tech Research, because of the company’s excellent track record integrating IPDS controllers with OEM equipment.

“TagG’s expertise in this area combined with the strength of our relationship made them the obvious partner, and we’re delighted with the outcome of this joint venture. TagG has developed an efficient solution that is extremely reliable,” states Takanori Kakita, President at Screen Europe.

As a cross-media marketing company, TagG has an annual production of over 300 million printed A4 pages per year and 50 million folds posted per year. The company is a pioneer of VDP in France and through the development of new software and adaptation of new technologies, its R&D department revolutionizes personalization and offers new perspectives to creative and marketing departments. TagG has been using the Truepress Jet520HD with IPDS controller at its production site in Entrelacs, Savoie.

Stuart Tootill, Systems Engineer at Screen Europe, adds, “Not only are we delivering IPDS functionality, but users can also use Equios workflow on the same press. This provides access to functionality such as advanced colour management, automated pre-flighting and PDF fixing for jobs that don’t require the security of IPDS. We are seeing more printers that typically use IPDS getting more PDF work, so this flexibility is a huge plus point for printers who want to serve different markets or run different kinds of jobs on the same press.”

With the introduction of IPDS, transactional and security printers have more freedom to use Screen’s Truepress Jet520 series, with confidence that data is transient and secure, whilst closed-loop technology ensures 100 percent delivery. This includes the highly productive flagship Truepress Jet520HD+ press, offering exceptional offset quality for commercial printing and supporting a wide range of paper stocks including standard offset coated papers, without the need for pre-treatment. The IPDS controller can also feed the Truepress Jet520NX press, supporting not only transactional printing, but also direct mail, transpromo, and book printing, which allows customers to extend their markets. Both presses will be showcased at HID 2019 in Lucerne, Switzerland, from February 25-28th.

TagG Informatique Founder Hervé Lesseur adds, “We enjoy our close relationship Screen and it’s been a pleasure to collaborate on this project. Screen has a fantastic reputation in the market for reliability and productivity, with the addition of the TagG IPDS controller we’re delighted that more printers will have access to that across the globe.”

Vianord Engineering has introduced Wave 3P, a new plate processing system for water-based flexographic plates that does not require water replacement.

Wave 3P can handle a maximum plate size of 92 x 120cm (36 x 48in. It can process almost all plate types in the market from 1.14mm up to 2.84mm thickness, both digital and analog.

It has been engineered to enhance the sustainability advantages offered by water washable flexo plates while safeguarding quality washout and superior screenings. As such, an integrated water reclaim system does not require frequent water replacement and only needs to be topped up due to evaporation caused by its working temperature.

Vianord noted that Wave 3P also has a small footprint compared to conventional processing equipment, and fast high-quality washout, perfected by unique LAM residual cleaning and pre-drying features.

Massimiliano Merlo, global marketing and sales director at Vianord Engineering, explained: ‘The innovative Wave product family is answering the flexo industry’s demand of solvent free and fully automated plate making systems.’

Wave 3P will begin to be delivered to the clients from April.

EFI and Duplo have established a time-saving integration between EFI Fiery digital front ends (DFEs) with workflow automation software and Duplo’s Raised Spot UV Coater – a new collaboration that streamlines prepress job preparation, saving time while reducing errors and waste.

EFI and Duplo customers can now complete seven manual file preparation steps in one step, including creating separate CMYK and spot UV files, page impositioning, applying of registration marks and barcodes, and submitting CMYK and spot UV files to a Fiery Driven printer and the DDC-810, respectively. The Fiery integration also leverages existing Duplo barcode support implemented earlier this year for additional finishing on Duplo DC-746 or DC-646 Slitter/Cutter/Creasers. Print service providers can save up to 70% of the finisher setup time by using a barcode produced by Fiery Impose software to automate the setup.

“EFI has dramatically reduced the number of manual steps required for preparing spot UV files,” said Anthony Gandara, product manager at Duplo USA Corporation. “Our collaborative efforts will allow our customers to be more efficient during prepress with print and spot UV files correctly prepared for accurate finishing.”

“By choosing EFI Fiery DFEs, today’s print service providers can better differentiate themselves. One of the key benefits is the ability to offer high-value jobs with raised spot UV coating through this new integration,” said John Henze, vice president of Fiery marketing and sales, EFI. “Together, EFI and Duplo continue to improve workflow automation from prepress through finishing. This enables print service providers to work more efficiently and reduce workflow bottlenecks, allowing them to produce a broader range of jobs customers want at a much lower labor cost.”
This new integration is available now for customers with Fiery DFEs and JobFlow software and the DDC-810 Raised Spot UV Coater.

TECHKON, the innovation leader in high-precision colour measurement solutions for the global print and packaging communities – announces the launch of the New Generation SpectroPlate. The Techkon SpectroPlate is a high resolution digital microscope that measures dot percentage, screen angles, lines per inch/cm, dot gain and AM, FM or Hybrid Screens of traditional offset or process-less, chemistry-free printing plates.

The New Generation instrument boasts a unibody case that is precisely machined from a single block of aluminium to maximise durability and reliability in harsh production environments. It is also now equipped with a high-resolution anti-glare display and well as an improved user-interface.
The Techkon SpectroPlate has been a long-standing favourite among the top plate manufacturers due to its speed, accuracy, and reliability. The SpectroPlate is the latest Techkon instrument to be added to its New Generation line and now includes:

• Inductive charging
• New generation battery with up to 10X lifespan
• Micro USB port
• Charging on console and USB port

Techkon’s entire product line is recognised by leading industry organisations, and its products are positioned as the coluor quality tools of choice for printers around the world.

www.techkonusa.com

Durst, a manufacturer of advanced digital printing and production technologies, has entered into a 50/50 joint venture with printing press manufacturer Koenig & Bauer for the joint development and marketing of single-pass digital printing systems for folding carton and cartonboard corrugated industry.

As technology leader in inkjet printing, Durst bundles this expertise with the market presence and excellent mechanical engineering of the Koenig & Bauer Group, which, with more than 5,700 employees, is one of the world's major suppliers of packaging and banknote printing.

In future, fully automated production lines will be developed in the joint venture and distributed worldwide. The digital transformation is also in the packaging industry, as the ever-changing requirements can no longer be met with conventional production technologies. Unlike in the graphics industry, an inkjet press alone is not enough, but there is a need to integrate different peripheral systems into a fully automatic production line. The new partner company will be based in Germany and will also manage the service and ink business in close cooperation with the global network of both companies.

“Durst and Koenig & Bauer is really a 'perfect match' because combining our strengths will drive digitalization in the packaging industry," said Christoph Gamper, CEO of Durst Group. "Both companies are similar in their culture and strategic direction, and both are technology leaders in their fields. With the partnership, we are even more strongly positioning ourselves as a high-end systems supplier to the industry."


Claus Bolza-Schünemann, CEO of Koenig & Bauer AG, said: "We look forward to the joint innovations and further development of future-oriented digital printing solutions for folding carton and corrugated board printing, which offer our customers added value. For folding carton printing, the modular concept of the VariJET enables the combination of digital inkjet printing with off-set printing and inline finishing options. Durst is the ideal partner for these goals because of its existing know-how and experience with inkjet and its high-quality solutions."

EFI introduces Reggiani BOLT 8000 sq.m hour textile printer

The brand-new, next-generation, single-pass EFI Reggiani BOLT textile digital printer from Electronics For Imaging, Inc. made its debut this week during an open house event at the EFI Reggiani facility in Bergamo, Italy.

The advanced, ultra-high-speed digital single-pass printer has the potential to revolutionise the textile printing market, providing users with high uptime and reliability, outstanding performance, superior printing uniformity and accuracy, long printhead life and minimal maintenance needs. The EFI Reggiani open house has created huge interest in global textile market opportunities, with nearly 300 customers and journalists attending to see the new BOLT in action.

"The innovative development of our new single-pass printer comes from Reggiani's speed of innovation in digital textile printing, its 70 years of history, and our proprietary knowledge of high-volume analogue rotary printing," said EFI Reggiani Vice President and General Manager Adele Genoni. "Our EFI colleagues' proven, worldwide expertise in single-pass technology and, most importantly, EFI Reggiani's serious commitment to listening to and addressing our textile customers' needs, have allowed us to achieve incredible results with our newest print technology. The EFI Reggiani BOLT re-writes the rules of digital textile single-pass printing, delivering superior throughput and quality with a highly competitive return on investment for customers. We are excited to bring this technology to our customers and see their businesses succeed and grow."

Cutting-edge printhead technology and high-performance ink delivery The BOLT offers an innovative, low-maintenance, fast-startup recirculation printhead that delivers better, more-uniform printing with superior uptime. Thanks to its cutting-edge printhead concept and high-performance ink delivery system, the BOLT has throughput speeds of up to 90 metres per minute (more than 8,000 square metres per hour) at a 600 x 600 dots per inch (dpi) resolution. It features high-end greyscale imaging in drop sizes from 5 to 30 picolitres, and also provides premium-quality 600 x 4,800 maximum-dpi resolution printing, allowing customers to address the full range of design needs. The printhead has been developed in partnership with a leading printhead manufacturer, and will be available exclusively for EFI Reggiani.

High-end capabilities, with reduced downtime The EFI Reggiani BOLT meets growing requirements for high-quality, ecologically sustainable digital textile imaging in apparel, décor and other markets. Paired with an EFI Fiery digital front end (DFE) print server offering unique, high-speed processing capabilities on demand, the BOLT printer is a robust, industrial platform designed for 24/7 operation and continuous productivity that drives high-volume throughput while reducing the cost per metre. Additional new features and enhancements on the printer include:

Enhanced maintenance features - The printer's contactless wiping system prolongs printhead life and quality. Plus, the printer comes with an assisted alignment system for its test calibration scan unit, and features extractable printing beams for easier maintenance.

Extended colour gamut and superior image quality - Thanks to EFI expertise in colour management and flexible colour configurations, customers can easily reproduce a wider variety of work, including designs featuring plain colours, geometric patterns, fine lines, deep blacks and smooth gradients.

Proprietary IP combining digital and rotary technologies - One or more analogue printing stations, which may be easily connected as an optional feature, can be integrated into the digital printer for special effects.

Efficient, high-powered EFI Fiery technology

The Reggiani BOLT is a Fiery Driven printer, featuring an EFI Fiery DFE with RIP and colour management technologies running on Fiery XB bladed hardware for maximum performance. Fiery technologies for the printer give textile printing businesses the ability to successfully produce highly challenging jobs with the finest detail, demanding colours, smooth gradients and more. EFI colour scientists developed special algorithms and custom screening for this Fiery system to deliver vivid print results, including high saturation without losing detail, and superior colour even when using the fastest print mode.

Fiery technologies for the new Reggiani BOLT printer also will include a 1-year subscription to EFI Fiery DesignPro, a powerful textile and fashion design suite that runs inside designers' Adobe Creative Cloud applications. Fiery DesignPro reduces the time needed to create colour books, repeats, colourways and prepare files for production to minutes instead of hours. Together, the new Reggiani BOLT single-pass printer and Fiery technologies address key market trends as customers face pressure for faster time-to-market, quick fashion cycles, shorter print runs and more customisation.

EFI Reggiani high-speed innovation in digital printing for textiles The BOLT printer is the newest in an important series of EFI Reggiani innovations. In the last 15 months, the team has developed a totally renewed range of digital scanning printers with cutting-edge technologies, launching a new model every quarter to offer customers solutions to whatever their requirements may be for easily scalable textile printing. The list of EFI Reggiani advancements includes two recent launches - the COLORS digital printer, which provides unparalleled performance with up to 12-colour printing, and the TERRA pigment ink with binder solution featuring in-line polymerisation, a process that speeds up customers' printing with one of the industry's greenest production technologies.

Fujifilm announces faster Jet Press 750S sheet-fed B2 Press

Fujifilm today announces its third generation B2 inkjet press, the Jet Press 750S. With higher productivity of 3,600 B2 sheets per hour, and a range of other changes which further improve the already impressive up-time, versatility, colour capability and quality, the Jet Press 750S is now the fastest, full colour, B2 sheet-fed digital press on the market.

The Jet Press 720S was the first B2 inkjet press to gain a foothold in the market, and was ahead of the game in terms of productivity and quality. With over 150 Jet Press installations worldwide, more and more print buyers have recognised the new standard in digital print that this press delivers. Now with the continued, steady increase in demand for short run work, the introduction of the Jet Press 750S means that more and more jobs are going to fit the sweet spot of this new industry-leading press.

The target for this press is not the toner-dominated, on demand market where runs of ones and twos predominate. The Jet Press 750S is likely to be highly competitive for print runs up to 5,000, depending on ink coverage, allowing it to compete with, and out-perform, offset presses in the production of high quality, short run print jobs. This makes it an ideal investment for a much larger range of commercial and packaging printers.

Like the Jet Press 720S, the new press is the perfect blend of old and new technologies. Built on an offset chassis, it features superb sheet-to-sheet, front and back registration and up-time on a par with offset, combined with the very latest industry-leading Samba inkjet printheads, to deliver print quality that out-performs offset.

Enhanced productivity and up-time

Customers of the Jet Press 720S have already benefited from the highest up-time for a digital press in the industry, with figures above 90% often quoted. The Jet Press 750S is set to improve on this still further thanks to two new features. The first is a new printhead self-cleaning process called ‘Overflow Cleaning’ which carries out head cleaning at times when the press is between jobs or the printhead assembly is in motion. The second is a new Active Head Retraction (AHR) system which lifts the print bars from the drum when a paper deformation is detected (<3mm), reducing the likelihood of paper jams caused by damaged paper.

The increase in top line press speeds has been achieved by the further development of two major parts of the press. The first is the inclusion of the next generation of Samba printheads. Printing on paper moving at the higher speed of 3,600 sheets per hour requires a corresponding speed upgrade to the number of ink droplets deposited per second. The jetting frequency of the new generation Samba printheads has therefore been increased from 25 kHz to 33 kHz to speed up dot placement and counteract the increased effects of possible turbulence. It also has the additional benefit of reducing dot placement variations, therefore improving quality.

The second new technology contributing to increased efficiency and speed is the introduction of a completely new drying system, in which a printed sheet is passed onto a transfer belt heated via rollers, with a vacuum applied as the sheet passes through the drying section to keep it dimensionally stable. Drying is carried out via a combination of the heated belt and hot air applied from above. As well as operating at higher speeds, this new system allows greater control and fine-tuning of temperatures, extending the range of substrates that can be printed.

The combination of a larger sheet size (increased from 750mm x 532mm to 750mm x 585mm), even better up-time, a 33% faster press speed, and quicker finishing mean the overall ability of this new press to print longer runs and improve job turnaround times still further is significant.

Exceptional quality and colour capability

The Jet Press 720S has already built a formidable reputation for exceptional print quality, and here the Jet Press 750S is no different. It features the same Rapid Coagulation Primer technology, allowing it to be used with standard coated and uncoated offset paper stock, benefits from the same superb sheet-to-sheet registration, and the addition of the latest generation of Samba printheads improves dot placement accuracy even further. The Jet Press 750S also features the same extended colour gamut called ‘MaxGamut’ which, depending on the media used, allows up to 90% of the Pantone library of 1,872 colours to be printed within a Delta E of 3 or less, providing an exceptional colour match on a four colour press.

To improve the press’s capability with regards to spot and Pantone colours even further, Fujifilm has added a new module to its XMF ColorPath tool, called XMF ColorPath Brand Color Optimizer. This new module enables users to profile the entire Pantone library for any chosen media type, and will ensure that each and every Pantone colour is printed as accurately as physically possible. What is unique to Brand Color Optimizer, however, is the ability to predict how accurately a Pantone colour will be printed before actually printing. This means decisions about printing a specific job can be made up front, and no time is wasted trying to achieve what is not possible.

Finally, in addition to the In-Line Scanning (ILS) system also found in the Jet Press 720S, the Jet Press 750S incorporates a new optional ImageConfidence scanning system as further reassurance. This uses a proprietary AI algorithm to evaluate the full print area of a B2 sheet on-the-fly, ensuring every sheet matches a pre-approved image.

Perfect for packaging

Currently, around a third of all current European Jet Press customers already produce some form of packaging on the press. With its 33% speed boost and variable data printing at full speed, the new Jet Press 750S is ideally suited to printing versioned and short run packaging to coincide with specific events, localities or store promotions.

The introduction of the Jet Press 750S is likely to accelerate this trend. It can be modified to accommodate heavier weight folding carton stock (up to 0.6mm in thickness), and printed sheets from the press have been tested and found to be compatible with a wide range of analogue and digital coating, foiling, lamination and cutting solutions. An automatic bridge is also available to connect to online coating solutions.

Fujifilm is now also able to offer a food safe ink, making the Jet Press 750S the first B2 digital press approved to print primary food packaging. This new, low migration, aqueous food safe ink complies with stringent regulations, including Swiss Ordinance 817.023.21 and European Commission Regulation 1935/2004, and has been specially formulated for coatings to be applied inline (via a bridge) or near line.

Other features

Remote usability has also been improved on the Jet Press 750S, with users able to carry out job management tasks, including allocating new jobs and certain press functions, remotely via an iPad (additional option).

Finally, the new press, like the Jet Press 720S, features excellent de-inkability of printed sheets, while the new drying system, which requires 23% less power, offers an additional environmental benefit.

Says Taro Aoki, Head of Digital Press Solutions, Fujifilm Graphic Systems EMEA: “In the Jet Press 750S, we have retained and enhanced all of the features that gave the Jet Press 720S such a formidable reputation, to create a new industry benchmark for the production of short run print. With its increased speed and up-time, the press is likely to be competitive for a much larger range of offset jobs, and gain a much larger share of the B2 market. We look forward to helping printers take advantage of all the opportunities that this will present.”

MGI integrates Memjet DuraLink into new AlphaJET B1 inkjet press

MGI Digital Technology has become a global OEM partner of Memjet and will integrate its DuraLink printing technology into AlphaJET, its new B1 inkjet printing and embellishment press for high-volume print and packaging markets.

MGI is a France-based manufacturer of digital printing presses and finishing technology. AlphaJET is said to ‘consolidate the functionality of traditionally separate, disconnected operational workflows such as primer coating, printing and embellishment’. AlphaJET utilizes DuraLink for CMYK color impressions with 1600 dpi resolution. White and clear varnish inks use UV inkjet technology for ‘best-of-breed’ convergence of digital printing methods. This powerful array of high-speed ink deposition processes allows the AlphaJET to both print and embellish corrugated flute board, paper, plastic and synthetic substrates at 1800 B1 sheets an hour.

AlphaJET is claimed as the first 40in-plus sheet-fed press to integrate the DuraLink inkjet printheads, ink and modules. It is also the first 5-color digital printing system to offer decorative special effects such as 2D/3D UV dimensional textures and variable embossed foil, according to MGI.

Michael Abergel, managing director at MGI, said: ‘Memjet has developed superb core technology with the DuraLink architecture and ink modules. In addition, its teamwork and technical support for the AlphaJET product has allowed us to quickly achieve unprecedented functional advancements. The AlphaJET has been designed to introduce a new model of printing, packaging and finishing productivity. For such an important product, we found an ideal business partner in Memjet; it understands the spirit of innovation that drives MGI.’

Memjet general manager Eric Owen added: ‘The launch of the AlphaJET comes at a time when print markets are experiencing a high demand for inline digital printing, embellishment and finishing. To capture that opportunity, MGI chose the modular nature of DuraLink — its extremely fast speeds, 1600 x 1600 resolution and affordable cost — to develop an industry-changing solution. This is a valuable partnership for MGI, Memjet and the print market as a whole.’

Wagner Labels chooses Epson SurePress L-4033AW solution

R. Wagner Prestige Labels Pty Ltd has a history which dates back to 1938. The company built a reputation in quality embossing labels and seals and in 1989, with new owners, introduced multi-colour labels to their offering. With their strong commitment to technology, Wagner Labels recently had a key decision to make around which new label press to buy. When their evaluation was complete it was the Epson SurePress L-4033AW that took the honours.

Wagner Labels production manager Chris Galea explained the company’s decision, “We had already stepped into the digital market with a small toner-based printer, quickly noticed the impact and continual benefits of using this machine and started to look at the digital printing process on a larger scale. Having already established ourselves in many other areas of printing including letterpress, screen and flexo this was going to be the next step. With the changing market and frequent improvements in new and improved digital presses we had to look at Epson as they’ve always been a market leader in inkjet machines. When we did, the SurePress L-4033AW stood head and shoulders above the competition.”

Galea and the Wagner team’s primary concern was that the quality of print from their new label press had to be second to none.

Galea continued, “Having always produced high quality, high definition work on our conventional printing presses using a combination of film, plates, ink and equipment we were looking for a machine that would fit in with our already-varied printing dynamic. We also had to factor in the numerous forms which the machine could print including different coated or uncoated substrates, maximum width, the addition of white ink and a fuller colour gamut. With the addition of white, orange and green ink to the usual CMYK as well as not needing to treat material prior to printing, the SurePress L-4033AW ticked all of these boxes and more.” 

Galea and the Wagner team studied the printing process, finish, quality and longevity of digital machines on the market and again, it was the quality the SurePress could provide that impressed them the most.

He added, “The SurePress offered a point of difference for our customers, an alternative to their range of labels while keeping the quality and colours of their products consistent. This is also in part due to the partnership and match between Epson hardware and Esko software being able to provide even more options and better support.”

For Wagner Labels their new SurePress hasn’t just maintained their quality levels, it’s actually increased their productivity levels too as Galea explained, “We have established ourselves in running small, specialty work such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food and wine labels. However, our new SurePress has enabled us to increase our capacity to do these types of jobs and widen our market even further. With less setup and material, it is easier to run multiple jobs in a quicker and more efficient manner. The L-4033AW is also capable of running labels just over 900mm which, combined with the lightfast and long-lasting inks, means we can print larger outdoor labels as well.”

All in all the team at Wagner Labels are very pleased with their new SurePress on many levels. When summarising the effect the new machine has had on the business it was clear that a combination of quality, reliability, flexibility and cost effectiveness truly sealed the deal at the innovative printers.

Chris Galea concluded, “By utilising the inkjet method of CMYKOG as well as Esko software the SurePress L-4033AW has been able to provide consistent prints time and time again whilst also reaching a majority of the PMS colour gamut with little to no calibration and no loss of set-up time. This helps us provide customers with the widest range of quality labels across their entire range of products. In short, by using the SurePress we can now provide our clients with the more efficient one-stop-shop solution of having their labels designed and printed all under one roof at a more competitive cost than ever before.”


www.epson.com.au

Fujifilm announces faster Jet Press 750S sheet-fed B2 Press


Fujifilm today announces its third generation B2 inkjet press, the Jet Press 750S. With higher productivity of 3,600 B2 sheets per hour, and a range of other changes which further improve the already impressive up-time, versatility, colour capability and quality, the Jet Press 750S is now the fastest, full colour, B2 sheet-fed digital press on the market.


The Jet Press 720S was the first B2 inkjet press to gain a foothold in the market, and was ahead of the game in terms of productivity and quality. With over 150 Jet Press installations worldwide, more and more print buyers have recognised the new standard in digital print that this press delivers. Now with the continued, steady increase in demand for short run work, the introduction of the Jet Press 750S means that more and more jobs are going to fit the sweet spot of this new industry-leading press.


The target for this press is not the toner-dominated, on demand market where runs of ones and twos predominate. The Jet Press 750S is likely to be highly competitive for print runs up to 5,000, depending on ink coverage, allowing it to compete with, and out-perform, offset presses in the production of high quality, short run print jobs. This makes it an ideal investment for a much larger range of commercial and packaging printers.


Like the Jet Press 720S, the new press is the perfect blend of old and new technologies. Built on an offset chassis, it features superb sheet-to-sheet, front and back registration and up-time on a par with offset, combined with the very latest industry-leading Samba inkjet printheads, to deliver print quality that out-performs offset.


Enhanced productivity and up-time


Customers of the Jet Press 720S have already benefited from the highest up-time for a digital press in the industry, with figures above 90% often quoted. The Jet Press 750S is set to improve on this still further thanks to two new features. The first is a new printhead self-cleaning process called ‘Overflow Cleaning’ which carries out head cleaning at times when the press is between jobs or the printhead assembly is in motion. The second is a new Active Head Retraction (AHR) system which lifts the print bars from the drum when a paper deformation is detected (<3mm), reducing the likelihood of paper jams caused by damaged paper.


The increase in top line press speeds has been achieved by the further development of two major parts of the press. The first is the inclusion of the next generation of Samba printheads. Printing on paper moving at the higher speed of 3,600 sheets per hour requires a corresponding speed upgrade to the number of ink droplets deposited per second. The jetting frequency of the new generation Samba printheads has therefore been increased from 25 kHz to 33 kHz to speed up dot placement and counteract the increased effects of possible turbulence. It also has the additional benefit of reducing dot placement variations, therefore improving quality.


The second new technology contributing to increased efficiency and speed is the introduction of a completely new drying system, in which a printed sheet is passed onto a transfer belt heated via rollers, with a vacuum applied as the sheet passes through the drying section to keep it dimensionally stable. Drying is carried out via a combination of the heated belt and hot air applied from above. As well as operating at higher speeds, this new system allows greater control and fine-tuning of temperatures, extending the range of substrates that can be printed.


The combination of a larger sheet size (increased from 750mm x 532mm to 750mm x 585mm), even better up-time, a 33% faster press speed, and quicker finishing mean the overall ability of this new press to print longer runs and improve job turnaround times still further is significant.


Exceptional quality and colour capability


The Jet Press 720S has already built a formidable reputation for exceptional print quality, and here the Jet Press 750S is no different. It features the same Rapid Coagulation Primer technology, allowing it to be used with standard coated and uncoated offset paper stock, benefits from the same superb sheet-to-sheet registration, and the addition of the latest generation of Samba printheads improves dot placement accuracy even further. The Jet Press 750S also features the same extended colour gamut called ‘MaxGamut’ which, depending on the media used, allows up to 90% of the Pantone library of 1,872 colours to be printed within a Delta E of 3 or less, providing an exceptional colour match on a four colour press.


To improve the press’s capability with regards to spot and Pantone colours even further, Fujifilm has added a new module to its XMF ColorPath tool, called XMF ColorPath Brand Color Optimizer. This new module enables users to profile the entire Pantone library for any chosen media type, and will ensure that each and every Pantone colour is printed as accurately as physically possible. What is unique to Brand Color Optimizer, however, is the ability to predict how accurately a Pantone colour will be printed before actually printing. This means decisions about printing a specific job can be made up front, and no time is wasted trying to achieve what is not possible.


Finally, in addition to the In-Line Scanning (ILS) system also found in the Jet Press 720S, the Jet Press 750S incorporates a new optional ImageConfidence scanning system as further reassurance. This uses a proprietary AI algorithm to evaluate the full print area of a B2 sheet on-the-fly, ensuring every sheet matches a pre-approved image.


Perfect for packaging


Currently, around a third of all current European Jet Press customers already produce some form of packaging on the press. With its 33% speed boost and variable data printing at full speed, the new Jet Press 750S is ideally suited to printing versioned and short run packaging to coincide with specific events, localities or store promotions.


The introduction of the Jet Press 750S is likely to accelerate this trend. It can be modified to accommodate heavier weight folding carton stock (up to 0.6mm in thickness), and printed sheets from the press have been tested and found to be compatible with a wide range of analogue and digital coating, foiling, lamination and cutting solutions. An automatic bridge is also available to connect to online coating solutions.


Fujifilm is now also able to offer a food safe ink, making the Jet Press 750S the first B2 digital press approved to print primary food packaging. This new, low migration, aqueous food safe ink complies with stringent regulations, including Swiss Ordinance 817.023.21 and European Commission Regulation 1935/2004, and has been specially formulated for coatings to be applied inline (via a bridge) or near line.


Other features


Remote usability has also been improved on the Jet Press 750S, with users able to carry out job management tasks, including allocating new jobs and certain press functions, remotely via an iPad (additional option).


Finally, the new press, like the Jet Press 720S, features excellent de-inkability of printed sheets, while the new drying system, which requires 23% less power, offers an additional environmental benefit.


Says Taro Aoki, Head of Digital Press Solutions, Fujifilm Graphic Systems EMEA: “In the Jet Press 750S, we have retained and enhanced all of the features that gave the Jet Press 720S such a formidable reputation, to create a new industry benchmark for the production of short run print. With its increased speed and up-time, the press is likely to be competitive for a much larger range of offset jobs, and gain a much larger share of the B2 market. We look forward to helping printers take advantage of all the opportunities that this will present.”

Heidelberg opens Future Workshop to educate apprentices on digital transformation

Heidelberg has opened Future Workshop, a learning space for apprentices at its Wiesloch-Walldorf site with the aim of introducing them to its corporate digitalization strategy from the beginning.

Digital transformation has been of strategic importance to Heidelberg for a number of years (read more in Labels & Labeling issue 3, 2017, and here). The printing equipment manufacturer noted how its advancing digital transformation is placing high demand on vocational training at the company. To make it easier to shape technological and social change, the Future Workshop has been established.

Here, apprentices will be familiarized early on with how the latest digital working methods are used, such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) and utility films. Trainee mechatronics engineers can use VR tools to inspect the insides of a printing press, for example. A special set of VR goggles enables them to navigate around a virtual environment simulating assembly, maintenance and repair work. This makes the product transparent and more easily understandable for apprentices, said Heidelberg..

Heidelberg CEO Rainer Hundsdörfer explained: ‘We are getting our young recruits fit to face the challenges of the digital future. We are investing heavily in cutting-edge training methods. After all, we need motivated and dynamic workers adept in state-of-the-art digital technologies to drive forward digital transformation at Heidelberg.’

In the Future Workshop, apprentices also use these methods to assemble products for start-ups such as Apium, a supplier of 3D printers based in Karlsruhe. Heidelberg is providing Apium with development and production capacity at the Wiesloch-Walldorf site as part of its high-tech campus concept.

Rainer Haus, who is in charge of Heidelberg’s training in Germany, said: ‘Our aim is to develop employees with sustainable skills who are open and courageous enough to embrace new concepts, particularly in a culture that is highly dynamic and constantly changing, as well as being keen to assume responsibility and make decisions.’

Prof. Rupert Felder, head of HR at Heidelberg, concluded: ‘At the same time, we are making our training program even more appealing and interesting to digital natives in what might otherwise be considered a "conventional" sector.’

Fujifilm to unveil new CTP system and new Elara 5 workflow features at IFRA World Publishing Expo 2018

Fujifilm today announces that in Hall 21a, Stand E.01, at the IFRA World Publishing Expo 2018 it will introduce two new solutions to its newspaper portfolio, both reinforcing the company's commitment to making newspaper production more profitable as part of its Superia initiative.

Superia has seen considerable success in the commercial print market since its introduction, with its simple aim of reducing the resources used in offset printing in the form of materials, labour, water, energy and waste.  Fujifilm has now applied these ideals to newspaper production, with a particular focus on improving automation and reducing material usage and waste.

Fujifilm will therefore be showcasing two new modules as part of its Elara 5 Workflow, Elara Production Planner and Elara PDF, and will also unveil a new addition to its Luxel VMAX range, the Luxel VMAX 600, shown at Ifra in concept form and set to be the fastest CTP device on the market.

Elara Production Planner 
Elara Production Planner is a unique new workflow tool that allows Elara users to plan newspaper editions based upon press configurations that can be created from inside the Elara 5 system. Software-to-press interfaces are often extremely expensive (sometimes the interface costs even more than the entire workflow software) but such expensive systems are no longer needed. Elara Production Planner takes care of press configuration and template setup directly, from which the workflow gets all the information it needs. It also automates the process of page pairing, press cylinder correction and plate-stacking and sorting.

Elara PDF 
Elara PDF is a new tool (available for all major platforms: Windows, Apple Mac and Linux) that can check, repair and normalise PDF files before production. Many newspaper printers get PDF files from external parties and these can have a range of specific issues that need to be addressed, such as RGB format images, thin lines, incorrect versions, missing fonts, low resolution images or overprinted text. Elara PDF finds and fixes these issues where possible and notifies the user via the user interface or by email. This versatile system also offers pre-flighting, picture enhancement, ink-saving, PDF flattening, anti-aliasing and more. A version that includes the high speed and comprehensive Elara Rip is also available.

Luxel VMAX 600 CTP
Having introduced an innovative trolley-based pallet loading option for its Luxel VMAX 400 CTP at last year's IFRA exhibition, Fujifilm this year is demonstrating its leadership in newspaper systems by showcasing how even greater levels of speed and efficiency could be achieved with the technology showcase of the Luxel VMAX 600, set to be the fastest CTP device available. Thanks to its cutting-edge laser technology and optimal plate-loading functionality, it can operate at unrivalled speeds.

Whilst punch bender manufacturers and processors still struggle to keep up with these types of speeds, the Luxel VMAX 600 showcases what is possible in terms of raw plate imaging speeds.  Fujifilm will therefore be reviewing customer interest with a view to introducing it as a commercial system at a later date.

SCREEN GP announces NIR Near Infrared Dryer for its 520HD Inkjet Web 

Delivers higher print speeds on coated litho stocks, expands lightweight paper capabilities, fine-tunes drying performance across all substrates used for commercial-grade digital inkjet print.

Sydney, October 16th 2018 - SCREEN’s flagship, high-volume production inkjet web press has made another leap toward becoming the preferred technology for printers looking for offset-quality on standard stocks, using inkjet technology.

Peter Scott, managing director of Screen GP Australia, says: “When we introduced the 520HD press a little over two years ago, the market was surprised by its offset-like image quality. It was the first time high speed inkjet demonstrated the capability for effectively printing jobs that approached offset quality. Development has been on-going since that time, with the SC inks being the most significant advancement.”

He continues: “Drying and curing is always an issue with high-volume inkjet, there’s a lot of water to get rid of and now, with the new Near Infrared (NIR) Dryer, we can achieve what no other digital inkjet press does. NIR technology dramatically advances productivity for work demanding high image quality and expands print applications for high speed inkjet across a broad landscape of products.”

The new SCREEN NIR Dryer technology, built into the existing press frame of the 520 HD, extends drying performance for both lightweight uncoated stocks and heavier weight, coated litho substrates. The result is an expanded range of applications and even higher productivity on difficult to dry substrates.

Drying on the 520HD is now 3-tiered: heat dissipation, hot air assist, and new infrared. This integrated solution achieves a drying balance along the entire paper path tuned specifically to the characteristics of the paper, reducing or eliminating the cockling often associated with traditional inkjet ink drying methods. 

Intelligent drying
Operators create substrate profiles with embedded drying protocols at different print resolutions and ink limits. These profiles are managed seamlessly by Screen’s proprietary Equios front end software, providing intelligent drying balance for each specific stock helping achieve the highest quality, best speeds and desired ink coverages.

Scott adds: “All new Screen Truepress Jet 520HD machines may be optionally equipped at the factory with the NIR dryer. Screen branded 520HD units currently in the field can be upgraded with the new dryer at the machine site. It’s a major move forward in making production web inkjet a viable alternative to offset – with all of the benefits of no plates, short runs, variable data, offset stocks and streamlined digital workflow.”

www.screenaust.com.au 

Mark Andy debuts new Performance Series presses

Mark Andy demonstrated at Labelexpo its newly-released press models, the  P9E, P7E and P5E, which have been added to the award-winning Performance Series product line. The Performance Series platform, according to Mark Andy, redefines workflow productivity through its simple design, efficient waste savings and fast changeovers.

The new Performance Series P9E press is specifically designed for high-quality flexible packaging production. Available in web widths up to 26 inch (660 mm), the flexo press is engineered as the ideal solution to print film, shrink sleeves, flexible packaging and foil lidding.

Performance Series P9E is built standard with new servo-controlled impression adjustment, independent servo-driven anilox rolls and servo side adjust at print speeds up to 1,000 fpm. Ergonomic efficiency is at the forefront of the wider 22 and 26 inch web widths, which include plate cylinder loading support as well as an anilox and chamber drawer. Configured with Mark Andy AI, the Performance Series P9E offers advanced automation with automated registration and impression, job save, 8 servo motors per station and a centralized control system. The enhancements reduce manual adjustments and associated downtime while meeting Industry 4.0 demands. The Mark Andy AI package is intelligent and customized to unique business needs, curbing potential production bottlenecks.

Given the increased demand for shrink and pouches coupled with larger volumes of shorter run lengths, the P9E is a profitable platform for short run flexible packaging. Key to its success is the flexibility it offers converters, with a rail system providing endless opportunity through decoration versatility.

“Mark Andy has over 800 Performance Series installed worldwide. We continue to develop flexible printing solutions that allow our customers to evolve as their job mix changes. The Performance Series P9E is an extension of our commitment and solves the pain points narrow web converters are facing plus the growing demand for shrink,” said Jeff Cowan, director – business Development, Mark Andy.

The Performance Series press line also welcomes the P7E and P5E models. Engineered with precision, the Performance Series P7E allows converters to expand into new markets, targeting entry level film and extended content applications.The P5E is designed to increase converter profitability for the simplest to most complex label applications.

Cowan added, “The P5 and P7 have been best selling models in the Performance Series line, based primarily on the versatility and productivity.  The release of the P5E and P7E demonstrates updated servo architecture allowing for tighter registration and a complete redesign of the converting options all focused on providing a better operator experience.“

The three new presses deliver an updated ProLED system with air cooling and modular recirculation dryers, both offering sustainability benefits. The machines are equipped with Mark Andy Thread-It technology, which simplifies press webbing for operators and is three times faster than traditional webbing methods. Additional press options include Digital Plus Screen, a digital inkjet replacement for rotary screen printing as well as QCDC-SR (Quick Change Die Cut Semi Rotary) adding advanced capability to flexo equipment that is also available on Mark Andy digital hybrid technology. 

P9E, P7E and P5E models are offered alongside the well-known P3 and P4 press models, designed for the everyday converter’s book of pressure sensitive prime label business.

“Partnering with Mark Andy is more than just future-proof equipment. It’s a Total Solutions Partnership. We stand by our customers every step of the way, offering best-in-class service, endless opportunity of press upgrades, and the technical support to ensure proper use of the right supplies for various applications. It all works together nicely to maximize our customers profitability,” Cowan said.

ABG introduces new inline coating machine for HP Indigo 20000

AB Graphic International, a global manufacturer of print finishing equipment, has announced the ILC760, a new inline coating solution for fully integrated inline coating on the HP Indigo 20000 digital press.

The ILC760 has made its debut at Labelexpo Americas at the HP booth, operating inline with the HP Indigo 20000, a top digital mid-web press for labels and packaging.

Supporting both water-based or UV coating, the ILC760 is a cost-effective, easy-to-operate, top coating solution with slitting-rewinding suitable for production of unsupported film applications such as sleeves, IML, wrap-around labels and various flexible packaging top-coated applications.

The 760mm wide ILC760 joins the Digicon 3000 in ABG’s growing finishing portfolio for mid-web digital production.

“The demand for digitally printed packaging is growing well beyond the pressure sensitive label market into areas such as sleeves, IML, and various flexible packaging applications,” says Tony Bell, ABG’s sales director. “ABG is pleased to continue collaborating with HP Indigo to redefine the boundaries of digital production by offering cost-effective innovations for simplified and efficient production.”

“ABG has a long standing strategic relationship with HP Indigo, and with this inline solution we are excited once again to bring a novel solution addressing the needs of the packaging industry,” says Yogev Barak, HP Indigo director of product development. “The new Digicon solution will help converters lower production costs and move towards more profitable digital printing solutions.”  

Flexo Wash unveils new Laser Anilox Cleaner

Flexo Wash is showcasing its latest offerings at Labelexpo Americas, which have been established in the industry for more than 25 years. More than 3,000 converters and printers have chosen to use Flexo Wash anilox cleaners to improve their printing process. 

The company has released its Flexo Wash Laser Anilox Cleaners. Converters and printers have been viewing the FW 2000 Laser Anilox Cleaner and discussing their printing process cleaning needs with Flexo Wash representatives during the show.

Ryan Potter, vice president of sales for Flexo Wash, attests that, “Our customers and prospects are excited to finally have an open and truly comparative conversation about the pros and cons of each technology. Flexo Wash provides the 'Flexobility' for converters and printers to choose which system works best for them.”

The industry now has access to two Flexo Wash cleaning technologies: the agile Liquid Cleaner and the emerging Laser Cleaner. Like the Liquid Cleaner, the Laser Cleaner gives an excellent cleaning result. “The FW 2000 and FW 3000 Laser Anilox Cleaners have the latest in laser technology. The FW 2000 Laser shown at Labelexpo Americas cleans an anilox roll or sleeve with a maximum cleaning length of 67” (1,700 mm)," states Anders Kongstad, technical director for Flexo Wash in Denmark. “The FW 2000 Laser can also be configured to clean multiple narrow web anilox rolls or sleeves in a single cycle.” 

Books, Bills and Direct Mail Printing Now More Productive and Profitable with the Xerox Brenva HD Production Press

With the demand for color inkjet pages expected to grow more than five-fold through 20221, print providers need more productivity and flexibility from their inkjet devices to capture that growth. To respond to the demand, Xerox has increased output capacity for the Xerox Brenva HD Production Press by more than 50 percent, expanded stock choices and added a roll feed capability for continuous operation.

Productivity Boost
With the new duplex speed kit, Brenva HD's output speed increases from 182 to up to 275 pages per minute, allowing print providers to take advantage of the inkjet value proposition, high quality and high output for key application areas.

"Print speed, workflow efficiency and production costs are among the top decision drivers for print providers considering inkjet," said Marco Boer, vice president, IT Strategies. "The Brenva HD speed upgrade means print providers can get more valuable jobs out the door faster, especially in key application growth areas such as transactional and direct mail."

Brenva HD's increased output also creates new ways to print more jobs faster. The new kit increases productivity by speeding up duplex (two-sided) printing, which is essential for books and manuals, as well as many transactional jobs.  Depending on the sheet size used, print providers can now achieve up to 300 letter size impressions per minute with the Brenva HD.

Production Flexibility
Working with technology partner, Tecnau, Xerox now offers the Tecnau SheetFeederT BV roll feed system for up to nine hours of non-stop cut sheet paper feeding. Brenva HD is the first sheet-fed inkjet press to offer a roll feed option, enabling print shops to produce longer run jobs without frequent paper tray restocking.

The book, transactional and direct mail segments are all expected to have double digit compound annual growth rates in production inkjet pages by 20221. With Brenva HD's increased output and new roll feed capabilities, print providers can grow profitability by reducing run costs and increasing capacity.

More Applications, More Profit
To give print providers even more opportunities to produce new applications, Brenva HD can now print on heavier weight stocks up to 270 gsm. A wider range of applications such as postcards, ID cards, and other jobs that utilize thicker, heavier media can now be produced quickly and efficiently on the Brenva HD.

"We're continually looking for ways to drive new business efficiencies and opportunities for our customers, and our upgrades for Brenva HD were designed with those key elements in mind," said Ragni Mehta, vice president and general manager, Cut Sheet Business, Xerox. "Our customers can now focus on maximizing their business potential and growing revenue by taking on more print jobs, regardless of run length."

Availability
The Brenva HD speed kit will be available for order taking beginning September 17. The kit will be available for both new equipment and as an upgrade to existing machines.

Agfa Graphics to Acquire the Prepress Business of Ipagsa

Agfa Graphics announced it intends to acquire the prepress business of the privately-owned Spanish printing plate supplier Ipagsa Industrial S.L.
The transaction excludes the printing plate manufacturing activities in Barcelona, Spain. The printing plate volumes to be acquired will be partly integrated in Agfa's global manufacturing network and partly procured from third party suppliers. It is expected that in 2019, this acquisition will contribute up to 30 million Euro to Agfa Graphic’s top line with a double digit EBITDA.

''This acquisition is another step in our strategy for profitable growth. Next to a significant increase of our prepress top line, the acquisition will also help Agfa achieving its EBITDA target of 10% in average over the next few years. Ipagsa’s experienced team will continue to operate under its own brand as a separate entity, managed by its current owner, Lorenzo Ferrari,'' says Stefaan Vanhooren, President of Agfa Graphics.

“We are excited to become part of a strong player in the prepress industry. Through Ipagsa, Agfa Graphics will be able to better address the price sensitive regions and segments of the global printing market, making a clear distinction with the premium segment served by the Agfa Graphics organization,” says Lorenzo Ferrari, CEO of Ipagsa.

Konica Minolta has announced the immediate availability of the AccurioPress C83hc. This High Chroma digital press gives printers a whole new world of colour reproduction with enhanced performance. 

The AccurioPress C83hc can express a much wider colour gamut than CMYK used for conventional printing. Pinks, purples, and bright greens are reproduced much more vividly and faithfully than those reproduced on a conventional CMYK toner print system. 

Grant Thomas, Product Marketing Manager, Konica Minolta, said, “The wide colour gamut of the AccurioPress C83hc High Chroma toner creates new printing business opportunities. It means that colours closer to RGB can be obtained, which is great for applications like printing studio photos, photo books, photos of nature, illustrations, computer graphics (CG), web-to-print, and more. 

“The printed image will be more natural and impressive when compared to an image produced on a conventional CMYK system. The expansion of spot colour reproduction is useful for printing company logos, high-impact point-of-purchase (POP), packaging, and posters.” 

Key features of the AccurioPress C83hc include: 
·        superb colour reproduction: a unique electro-photo print system that produces colours close to sRGB; something that cannot be achieved with CMYK print systems. When in print mode, colours close to sRGB and CMYK can be obtained with the one system 
·        automated adjustments: automated colour and registration adjustments are possible with the Intelligent Quality Optimiser (IQ-501) enhancing quality, productivity and, ultimately, profitability 
·        high productivity: high productivity (81 ppm/A4), high-capacity paper handling and high-spec finishing options for high-volume printing 
·        excellent versatility: wide paper weight compatibility up to 350 gsm. Excellent versatility handling a variety of media with ease including envelopes, banners, and textured stocks. 
·        long sheet banner printing: simplex up to 1300 mm and up to 762 mm auto duplex. 


The AccurioPress C83hc is equipped with Konica Minolta’s Intelligent Quality Optimiser, IQ-501. The IQ-501 maintains consistent colour reproduction and closed-loop paper registration (image-on-image, image-on-paper, and side-one/side-two registration) is measured and managed automatically in real time during printing operation. 

With the IQ-501 consistent realisation of high-quality print contributes to reduced print waste and labour times for set up, reducing the need for manual intervention. It increases uptime with automated system self-correction to ensure colour reproduction remains accurate and, importantly, delivers high-quality print results time after time. The IQ-501 can deliver time savings for print operators of up to 60 per cent and can increase system print productivity by up to 20 per cent. 

Konica Minolta provides exceptional service and support to keep commercial printers up and running. The new AccurioPress C83hc is available now. 

Komori Announces Plans to Field Test Impremia NS40 Nanographic System

Komori Corporation announced plans to initiate field testing of its new Impremia NS40, a 40˝ sheetfed Nanographic Printing System, during the spring of 2019. First shown at drupa 2016, the Komori Impremia NS40, a sheetfed inkjet press equipped with Landa Nanography technology, has been in development at Komori in Japan for more than two years.

Keeping the needs of today’s customers in mind, the NS40 is designed to combine the versatility of digital with the quality and speed of offset printing at a low cost per page. It has the capability to print on any off-the-shelf substrate, from coated and uncoated paper stocks to synthetic substrates and paperboard—up to 32 point—without the need for pre- or post-treatment of any type. Operating at an initial throughput rate of 6,500 straight sheets or 3,250 perfected sheets per hour, the NS40 will be available in multiple configurations, from a 4-7 color straight press to an 8-color perfector with in-line coating.
Based on the progress of the development of the Impremia NS40, Komori plans to carry out the first field test of the beta press in the Japanese market in the spring of 2019. This will be followed by similar plans to further test the NS40 in other countries as well.

“Komori has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring this game changing technology to the market so we are very excited that this product will soon be a reality,” says Scott Robertz, NS40 product manager for Komori America Corporation.

General availability of the product is planned for late December of 2019.