Labelling Blog

DigiPRO® for HP Indigo

2010-03-09T20:25:00.000+01:00

In response to a demand for products that can improve the durability of HP Indigo-printed images, FLEXcon has introduced eight new DigiPRO® pressure-sensitive films featuring a topcoat that is specifically designed for use with digital offset printing presses.

The new VBS Value and Better DigiPRO® products are offered with either of two complementary DPM® overlaminates for applications requiring more durability and fade resistance.

The permanent adhesive, DigiPRO® constructions consist of two vinyls and six polyesters. Products can be utilized for a variety of durable goods applications, such as brand ID and warning labels, which require a high-shear, high-peel adhesive to resist cold flow and ooze. FLEXcon also offers two removable adhesive constructions supplied in flexible white vinyl for temporary product identification tracking applications.

DigiPRO® films are specifically designed for small-format digital printing with HP Indigo inks and ensure excellent ink receptivity for sharp vibrant image quality. They can be combined with either DPM® CVE (Clear Velvet Embossed) or DPM® UVCG (UV Clear Gloss) overlaminates to dramatically help reduce fading due to weather and sunlight, significantly extending the life of the HP Indigo printed image. DigiPRO® films can also be over-laminated with any of FLEXcon’s many other overlaminates to achieve a desired finish and/or price point. All constructions are offered with either a Kraft roll form liner or a two-side polycoated layflat sheet liner. DigiPRO® films that utilize the DMP® CVE overlaminate are rated for 2-year outdoor durability, while DigiPRO® films coated with the DPM® UVCG overlaminate are rated for 5-year outdoor durability.

Source: Flexcon
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WP Digital Selling swissQprint UV Printer in the US and Canada

2010-02-18T09:12:00.000+01:00

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. A demo 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 allrounder that is unrivaled in its class.
High Standards with Regard to 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.

About WP Digital
WP Digital AG operates worldwide and is a part of WIFAG Polytype Holding, which is active in
various business areas. The product line offered includes digital printing systems for graphics
and industry, rotary printing presses for newspapers, packaging printing machines and
converting plants as well as the retail sale of consumables and accessories. The company
looks back on many years of experience in the development of large-format printers and
guarantees outstanding customer support as well as comprehensive consultation services due
to its global service and sales network.
More information is available at: www.wp-digital.com or sales@wp-digital.com
About swissQprint
With innovative technical solutions and excellent service, swissQprint AG produces top tailormade
products that are always state-of-the-art. The customers' issues and requests for specific
solutions motivate the employees of swissQprint to continuously develop the company’s highquality
products and accessories. In the process, the customers are given active support to
further expand their market position. International sales and service take place through a
network of selected specialized trade companies.
More information is available at: www.swissqprint.com, info@swissqprint.com

Source: WP-DIGITAL

Domino moves forward with Digital Printing Solutions

2010-02-13T19:09:00.000+01:00

IPEX 2010 marks a watershed for Domino, with the Cambridge, UK-based company using the show as the launchpad for a brand new range of four/five colour digital presses. The move marks Domino’s transition from acknowledged market leader in in-line variable data printing to mainstream supplier of full colour digital printing equipment.
The introduction is underpinned by the establishment of Domino’s Digital Printing Solutions division, dedicated to the Printing, Mailing, Packaging and Converting markets, focussing on label printers as well as in-house, near line printing in the packaging sector. The company’s existing wide range of ink jet technologies for personalisation and numbering will sit alongside the new N-Series full colour solution to meet the complete range of digital printing applications.
Nigel Bond, Group Managing Director at Domino Printing Sciences plc, said: “Domino has become pre-eminent in industrial ink jet over the last three decades and is continuously expanding its product range to add value to customers’ businesses, helping them to enter new markets and create additional opportunities for growth.
“Drawing on our accumulated wealth of experience in ink jet technology, we believe that the time is now right in terms of price, technology and print quality for Domino to expand our offering to incorporate full-colour ink jet printing.”
One of the pioneers of industrial ink jet technology, Domino’s credentials in terms of delivering and supporting ink jet printers are beyond question. The company was formed in 1978: it floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1985 and has just reported its 31st year of consecutive growth, with sales to November 2009 of £256m (€290m) and operating profit of £36m (€40m).
Ongoing and substantial investment in R&D has seen the Domino portfolio expand beyond its initial Continuous Ink Jet (CIJ) offering to incorporate the broadest and most complete range of flexible system solutions, including continuous, binary, thermal, and drop on demand ink jet technologies. For the commercial printing sector, this translates into added value in a variety of applications, such as printing addresses, barcodes, numbers and graphics with integrated controllers that interface with existing industry-standard databases and software. This allows users to easily manage rapid speed and high quality variable data on printing, finishing and mailing lines.
Many early applications of Domino products were in the commercial printing sector – applying unique codes to game cards is typical – and these are still very much in demand today. The company is committed to delivering value across the board: many printers in the field have a service life of twenty years or more, while other customers have upgraded to take advantage of new capabilities and are now running their third generation Domino printer. This long term commitment reflects in the design of the new products; they are fully specified and designed for heavy duty use, with robustness to match that of any conventional litho or flexo press.
Philip Easton, Director – Digital Printing Solutions at Domino, says that this heritage is reflected in the design and build of the new N-Series. “Domino is committed to delivering the right product to the market at the right time. We have been monitoring developments in the fast-moving CMYK ink jet market closely dating back to 2006 when we test marketed our first CMYK solution and are confident that the printer we launch at IPEX will be the one that meets the needs of printers and brand owners now and for some time to come.”

Source: DOMINO

FLEXcon to Feature Extended Line of HP Indigo-Compatible Products at Dscoop5

2010-02-13T19:05:00.000+01:00

To meet the increasing demands of printers who are leveraging their HP Indigo presses to win lower volume, yet more intricate jobs, FLEXcon has rolled out 12 new HP Indigo-compatible substrates, one of which is a greener alternative for exterior window applications. These products are applicable for a wide range of product identification and advertising applications, including reflective and conformable durable labels, graphic advertising for floors and windows, and prime labels.
These new products, featuring FLEXcon’s DigiPRO^® HP Indigo-compatible topcoats, will be highlighted by FLEXcon at the upcoming Dscoop5 (Digital Solutions Cooperative) Annual Conference scheduled for February 18-20 in Dallas, TX. The addition of these 12 new products brings the total number of FLEXcon HP Indigo printable substrates to 32, all of which are from FLEXcon’s vast Value Better Supreme (VBS) product offerings. These 12 new products are topcoated with FLEXcon’s DigiPRO^® HP Indigo-compatible TC-338 or TC-413 topcoats and can be shipped in 5 days or less. Products will be available in short runs (360 MSI, equivalent to 5 rolls 12” x 500’) and have a one-year shelf life.

By utilizing FLEXcon’s core competency in polymeric coating, converters can improve efficiency through hassle-free, one-stop shopping, as well as offer an overall cost savings. For converters who topcoat on-press, FLEXcon can provide a much more consistent stock with one less step for those converters to schedule and process, yielding an increase in their bottom line.

The 12 new HP Indigo-compatible products include:

CONFORMcal™ DGFSC400S & DGFSW400S : This flexible, soft clear, white vinyl film provides excellent conformability for compound or curved surfaces such as sports helmets. The permanent acrylic adhesive bonds well to a variety of surfaces.
DigiPRO^® DGBBSVL :This bright, brushed silver polyester is an extension of the current DigiPRO® DG series for durable product identification labels and features a brushed stainless steel finish ideal for creating labels with a high-end, durable look.
REFLECTAmark^® DGWSGS : This acrylic film has a reflective glass bead coating ideal for long-range scannable barcode labels, and industrial caution and warning labels. It utilizes a high-performance permanent acrylic adhesive which bonds well to ABS, aluminum, stainless steel, and low-surface energy plastics.
WINDOWdeco™ 6230DG and 6240DG : These clear and white vinyls utilize a clear, low tack, removable adhesive that adheres well to exterior glass and Formica (for counter mats) surfaces over a wide range of temperatures and removes cleanly. WINDOWdeco™ 6250DG , a clear polypropylene with a low tack removable adhesive and sheet liner, is a greener alternative to 6240DG.
FLEXmark^® floor art™ 6280DG : This printable, clear vinyl offers full floor coverage, resistance to tearing and abrasion, allows for normal care with waxing and burnishing, and meets ASTM D 2047 and ASTM E 303 standards. FLEXmark^® floor art™ was also named as a 2009 SGIA Product of the Year .
optiFLEX^® RESEAL™ PP20083D1 : This hard, clear polypropylene offers superior clarity to achieve the no-label-look on printed flexible packaging materials.
optiFLEX^® EZ™ ZC82120D1 : This clear polypropylene offers conformability for many container shapes and provides maximum label and graphic coverage.
PHARMcal^® PP20041D1 : The film clarity of this clear polypropylene enables the achievement of a no-label-look on clear vials and syringes.
DigiPRO^® PRIME™ PP204120 : This clear polypropylene is perfect for packaging labels for cosmetics, household cleaners, and personal care, to name a few.

The breadth of FLEXcon’s product offering encompasses prime label applications, graphic advertising for floors and windows, POP, power tools and outdoor power equipment, automotive, sporting goods, consumer electronics and more. Furthermore, FLEXcon’s custom capabilities and customer focus differentiates us from the competition because we collaborate with customers to find an application-specific solution when an off-the-shelf product won’t meet their requirements.

SOURCE: Flexcon

Refresh Your Sprite campaign uses HP Indigo technology to connect with customers

2010-01-20T11:48:00.001+01:00

Branding made personal

When Coca-Cola Israel planned a campaign to refresh its Sprite brand, the company decided to consult its customers.

“Our idea was to involve consumers in the brand campaign in a wholly new way,” says Merav Dvori, category marketing manager at Coca-Cola Israel. “For the first time, customers could design their own product label.”

The campaign invited consumers to visit the Refresh Your Sprite website and work with different elements to create a can design complete with branding, barcodes and other required information. The campaign attracted submissions from consumers from age 10 to 60 and resulted in more than 100,000 individual can designs.

Meeting the challenge of innovation

Involving customers was just the start of the Refresh Your Sprite campaign. The Coca-Cola team also wanted to print the top designs, but the tight turnaround time and small quantities made conventional can printing unsuitable. The team turned to HP digital printing for the solution.

Using the HP Indigo press ws4500, Tadbik Labels Co., of Carmiel, Israel, part of the Tadbik Group, printed the designs on shrink sleeves rather than directly onto the can. This enabled a seamless workflow from the online designs to the final prints.

According to Boris Demb, production planning manager at Coca-Cola Israel:

“Tadbik and its HP Indigo digital press
met the quality that we required as well as the
extremely tight production deadlines.”

Short run solution

Another challenge the HP Indigo ws4500 helped the Coca-Cola team surmount was the short print runs the campaign required. Each week during the four-week campaign, the public was encouraged to visit the campaign’s website and vote for the top 100 designs.

Tadbik then printed the winning designs using the HP Indigo ws4500. A case of 24 personalized cans was delivered to each winning designer and a second case of 24 was displayed at a commercial center in Tel Aviv.

While printing only 48 cans of each winning design would have been unfeasible with conventional can printing, the HP Indigo ws4500 handled the high-quality short runs with ease. “While 48 cans doesn’t sound like a lot, the total size of the job was nearly 20,000 shrink sleeves,” says Oded Shany, managing director of Tadbik Labels Co.

At the end of the campaign, a professional panel of industry-leading judges chose six finalists. More than 1 million cans of these winning designs were then distributed to retail outlets around Israel.

Winning results

Customers weren’t the only ones who had a chance to win with the campaign. Tadbik entered its work on the campaign in the 2008 HP Indigo Digital Labels and Packaging Contest and won first prize in the shrink-sleeve category. Shany explains:

“This campaign played to
our strengths as well as the strengths
of the HP Indigo press ws4500.”

“The campaign was one of those jobs that is especially rewarding since the results enjoyed such a high profile,” he adds.

For Coca-Cola Israel, the outcome was beyond expectations. “We were delighted with the results of the campaign in every way,” says Dvori. “We had a target number of surfers to the website of 2.5 million and attracted about 3.5 million, which is half of the population of Israel. We achieved fresh new looks which certainly add power to the brand.”
Source: HP

Over 700 new members have joined the "Digital Printing Labels" group on LinkedIn during the past 11 weeks.

2009-10-21T19:00:00.000+02:00

Since LabelExpo 2009, we are the world's largest Label Printing business networking LinkedIn group.

Our global members include: Label & Packaging Print Buyers, Advertising / Promotional and Direct Marketing Agencies, Digital Label / Decals and Pacakge Printers / Converters, Consultants, Application and Substrate specialists and Global Printing and Converting Equipment Manufacturers, Solution Providers and Print Industry Media Publications.

The latest short to medium run Digital color Label printing systems and new generation Converting systems have recently and continue to experience quantum leaps in technology, quality, speeds and improved cost efficiency serving a growing market.

Our DPL group will post only the most relevant and latest News & Discussions from our Members, all of the global Labeling and Packaging conferences, Expos, market research reports and Label & Packaging buyers.

All yielding new Applications and Disruptive Innovations for this rapidly expanding and evolving needs of this global growth market.

Just click the URL below to join in just seconds.

http://www.linkedin.com/groupRegistration?gid=2071328

Security printing goes for digital plate processing

2009-10-03T18:45:00.002+02:00

Flint Group Flexographic Products offers the first digital plate for security printing - nyloprint® WS 230 S Digital

Since film manufacturers announced that special films for security plate making will no longer be available, the security printers are forced to search for alternative technologies to image their letterpress plates. An efficient option is the mask ablation of digital plates. The technology is already established in the flexo and letterpress market for many years. The digital plates are masked with a black layer which is imaged by a diode, YAG or fibre-laser at a resolution of up to 10,000 dpi. This technology not only eliminates the film processing and the disadvantages of the image transfer via film, it also offers significant quality improvements for the security printers.

In addition to digital plates for direct and indirect letterpress security printing, Flint Group Flexographic Products now offers a digital version of the stencil plate. Hence conventional film processing can be replaced completely by digital mask ablation for all letterpress applications in security printing.

The new nyloprint® WS 230 S Digital stencil plate provides the whole range of advantages given by digital plate processing like electronically data transfer and storage, which increase quality and save costs. Both the redundancy of the film and the fact that nyloprint® stencil plates are water washable, are supporting an environmentally friendly plate processing. The new nyloprint® WS 230 S Digital combines highest dimensional stability and repeatability with the ability of imaging finest details, which are the key factors for security printing.

25 September 2009

For more information, contact

Flint Group
Inken Steinhauser
T +49 2561 9826 719
inken.steinhauser@flintgrp.co

Limpet Labels Expand Digital Offering with Xeikon 3000

2009-09-25T20:00:00.000+02:00

Xeikon, a division of Punch Graphix, announces that Limpet Labels, Wrexham UK, has decided to expand into digital label production with the purchase of a new Xeikon 3000 digital label press. Established in 1992, the North Wales-based company specialises in the production of self-adhesive labels for the chemical, oil, hygiene industries and other markets where high label quality and durability are required. Commenting on the company’s latest investment in digital equipment, Lee Goode, Managing Director of Limpet Labels, said: “Digital label printing is playing an ever more important role in the market, and we need ensure that we are keeping up with the very latest technology in this area. We recognise that customer needs are changing with shorter run lengths, just-in-time production, and a larger number of product variants. We believe that by moving further into digital production we will be able to help our customers to reduce their stock levels of label products, and provide labels that incorporate variable data, such as unique bar codes or sequential numbering. Undoubtedly, digital gives a label print business significantly more flexibility, and that is something that we believe our customers will benefit from.
“I believe that digital printing technology is not going to replace conventional printing methods in the foreseeable future, however, it is an important piece of a jigsaw puzzle in label production today. With our new investment we will be able to offer a complete package to our customers as well as gain a significant competitive advantage over our competitors.”
Limpet Labels currently run two Mark Andy LP3000 flexographic presses, the second of which was installed in September 2008, and automatic-feed screen printing. The company currently produces in excess of 5 million labels per month.
The Xeikon 3000 web-based press has a top speed of 31.5 feet of label production per minute, and a monthly duty cycle of 1,500,000 feet. The five colour engine provides for the four standard process colours plus a choice of spot colour, special security toner for anti-counterfeiting applications, or an opaque white for the “no label” look on transparent material. The press is capable of handling an unrivalled range of substrates including self-adhesive films, co-extruded films, unsupported films, paper, transparent and opaque foils, and paperboard. The press handles a substrate width of 330mm, and provides for an imaging width of 322mm. The environmentally friendly dry toner electro photography imaging process enables the use of conventional substrates without the need for coating or pre-treatment.
For job preparation, the Xeikon press is equipped with the truly open, scalable and modular X-800 Digital Front-End (DFE), combining extensive pre-press functionality including a high-speed RIP with impressive variable data printing processing. In addition, the X-800 DFE is designed to deliver the highest print quality level, a practical die marker function and precise step-and-repeat functionality. The system is also equipped to handle complex operations such as sequential numbering and barcodes.
Commenting on the Limpet Labels order, Greg Neesham, Sales Director for Punch Graphix UK, said: “The team at Limpet Labels have taken a long hard look at the digital market and decided that the time is right for them to invest in a product that will further advance their competitive advantage in the market place. The outstanding quality, colour consistency and accuracy of the Xeikon 3000 will fit well into this established label production business.”
Further information on Limpet Labels can be obtained by calling 01978 66 44 11 or by visiting the www.limpetlabels.co.uk web site.
For further information on Punch Graphix and Xeikon e-mail
infouk@punchgraphix.com or visit the www.xeikon.com web site.
About Xeikon
A pioneer in digital printing, Xeikon designs, develops and delivers high-end digital colour printing systems for the global commercial, document printing and industrial market segments. These systems are composed of advanced web-fed printing engines using LED-array-based, dry toner electrophotography, open workflow software, exclusive toner and other consumables. Xeikon’s production and R&D operations are based in Belgium and its solutions are distributed and supported through a worldwide sales and service network. Xeikon is a division of Punch Graphix. For more information, visit www.xeikon.com
About Punch Graphix
Punch Graphix provides innovative, competitive and environmentally friendly imaging and printing solutions for the global graphics industry. Under the Xeikon brand name, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers high-end digital colour printing systems, software and consumables for the commercial, document printing and industrial markets. Under the basysPrint brand, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers mid to high-end imaging systems for the offset prepress commercial markets. With a clear-minded focus on R&D, Punch Graphix is dedicated to customer satisfaction and aims to deliver cost-effective graphic excellence that goes beyond all expectations. For more information, visit www.punchgraphix.com

Xeikon Will Share Industry Insights During the TLMI Technical Conference

2009-09-10T20:13:00.000+02:00

Xeikon , a division of Punch Graphix, legendary for pioneering the first digital color presses, today announced that the company will be present at the upcoming 2009 Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI) Technical Conference, taking place in Chicago, September 8–10, 2009. The theme of this year’s conference is "Get Smart", focusing on the day-to-day issues narrow web printers and converters are facing in the current marketplace.

During the conference Michael V. Ring, VP of Sales & CMO of Xeikon’s North American operations and Filip Weymans, Xeikon’s Business Development Manager for Labels & Packaging segment, will be on hand to give attendees insight about the digital color production of labels and packaging applications. Xeikon will also showcase a variety of unique samples produced on the Xeikon 3300 digital label press during the conference.

“As we embark on the ninth TLMI Technical Conference, we are excited to discuss digital technology’s impact throughout the tag and label industry,” said Weymans. “Now, more than ever, it is important for label and packaging converters to invest in a digital solution that offers high quality, productivity and flexibility – all key elements for propelling their business to new heights and improving production efficiency.”

The award-winning Xeikon 3300 offers true 1200 dpi at four bits per spot. With a top speed of 63 linear feet per minute and a monthly duty cycle of 2.3 million linear feet, the Xeikon 3300 is extremely productive and is designed to operate 24 hours a day. It includes five color stations: four for the standard process colors and the fifth color station for spot colors. The spot colors can be used for gamut expansion or for producing specific brand colors. The fifth color station can also be utilized for printing on transparent films using Xeikon’s one-pass opaque white toner and for security printing using Xeikon’s special security toner. Operating on the Xeikon Form Adapted (FA) toner, the Xeikon 3300 is FDA-approved for use in certain food contact applications.

The dry toner electrophotography imaging process of the Xeikon 3300 enables the use of conventional substrates without coating or pre-treatment and emits no VOC’s or other hazardous substances. The printed output of the Xeikon 3300 is fully recyclable. The press also features full rotary printing technology, enabling printing at rated engine speeds, for maximum productivity.

Xeikon’s expertise will also be leveraged during the “Application in Action with Digital Printing” session on September 09. This session will be a consultative panel discussion from the converter's perspective regarding digital technology and its impact on their business. Xeikon experts will be a part of the discussion panel during this session and will share their experience and insights with the attendees.

About Xeikon

A pioneer in digital printing, Xeikon designs, develops and delivers high-end digital color printing systems for the global commercial, document printing and industrial market segments. These systems are composed of advanced web-fed printing engines using LED-array-based, dry toner electrophotography, open workflow software, exclusive toner and other consumables. Xeikon’s production and R&D operations are based in Belgium and its solutions are distributed and supported through a worldwide sales and service network. Xeikon is a division of Punch Graphix. For more information, visit www.xeikon.com

About Punch Graphix

Punch Graphix provides innovative, competitive and environmentally friendly imaging and printing solutions for the global graphics industry. Under the Xeikon brand name, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers high-end digital color printing systems, software and consumables for the commercial, document printing and industrial markets. Under the basysPrint brand, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers mid to high-end imaging systems for the offset prepress commercial markets. With a clear-minded focus on R&D, Punch Graphix is dedicated to customer satisfaction and aims to deliver cost-effective graphic excellence that goes beyond all expectations. For more information, visit www.punchgraphix.com

For more information, please contact:

Andy Dwivedi

Xeikon

630-438-7932

aditya.dwivedi@xeikon.com

www.xeikon.com

Stacey Allaire

Matter Communications for Xeikon

978-499-9250 x247

Stacey@matternow.com

www.matternow.com

SOURCE

News from Label-Expo: Allen Datagraph Systems launch desktop digital label system

2009-09-03T18:53:00.001+02:00

Visitors to the Allen Datagraph Systems stand will be educated about the iTech Axxis desktop digital label system for the printing and finishing of digital labels. The printer can handle a wide range of substrates and boasts a high level of productivity, the company claims, while the digital finisher can laminate, digital die-cut without dies, strip and rewind labels.
SOURCE

CS Labels Plots Growth with Third Xeikon Label Press

2009-08-04T20:50:00.000+02:00

Midlands-based CS Labels Limited has bolstered its production set-up by installing its third label press from Xeikon, a division of Punch Graphix. The latest purchase is a Xeikon 3000 and replaces one of the company’s two Xeikon 330 digital label presses. The installation comes just 13 months after CS Labels bought its last 330 machine, and less than two and a half years since the company made its first investment in digital.

Simon Smith, Managing Director of CS Labels, says: “We’ve enjoyed consistent growth in digital label production since our initial investment. This latest purchase underlines our strategy to continually invest in cutting-edge equipment, and keeps us at the vanguard of digital production techniques. The Xeikon 3000 images to a higher resolution at 1,200 dots per inch. Plus it produces even more reliable, consistent colour quality over a wider colour gamut, allowing us to offer a better service to our customers.”

The Xeikon 3000 provides an increased imaging width of 322mm compared to the 307mm of the Xeikon 330 machine. Both Xeikon's digital printing presses are based on a 330mm substrate width.

“Our business has changed shape significantly since our initial move into digital labels. Our flexo and screen printing equipment is still an important part of our business, but digital has certainly taken over as our main production system – some 60% of our turnover is generated by the Xeikon machines.”

The Xeikon 3000 web-based press has a top speed of 31.5 feet of label production per minute, and a monthly duty cycle of 1,500,000 feet. The five-colour engine provides the four standard process colours plus a choice of spot colour, special security toner for anti-counterfeiting applications, or an opaque white for the ‘no label’ look on transparent material. The press can handle an unrivalled range of substrates, including self-adhesive films, co-extruded films, unsupported films, paper, transparent and opaque foils, and paperboard. The environmentally friendly dry toner electrophotography imaging process enables the use of conventional substrates without the need for coating or pre-treatment.

Existing post-press equipment at CS Labels is suitable for varnishing, laminating, cutting, slitting, matrix stripping and re-reeling the finished printed product. The company is due to install a second GM finishing unit to handle the increased throughput of the Xeikon 3000. “We were able to run the two Xeikon 330s with one finishing system offline, but it was running at full capacity and there were times when it caused a bottleneck in production,” adds Smith. “With the increased throughput of the Xeikon 3000, we definitely need two finishing systems.”

For job preparation, both Xeikon presses are equipped with the open, scalable and modular X-800 Digital Front-End (DFE), combining extensive pre-press functionality, including a high-speed RIP with impressive variable data printing processing. Plus the X-800 DFE delivers the highest print quality, a practical die marker function and precise step-and-repeat functionality. The system can also handle complex operations, such as sequential numbering and barcodes.

Smith is optimistic about the digitally produced label market: “We have an ever-increasing amount of trade work coming in from other printers and print brokers. And we’ve a loyal direct customer base, which is showing a lot of interest in the benefits of digital.”

Greg Neesham, Sales Director for Punch Graphix UK, comments on CS Labels’ installation: “CS Labels is the latest example of how a traditional label printing company can adapt to the digital world. By purchasing the right equipment for its business and its customers, the company is perfectly placed to expand into new markets and generate additional revenue.”

For more information on CS Labels, visit www.cslabels.co.uk.

For further information on Punch Graphix and Xeikon e-mail infouk@punchgraphix.com or visit the www.xeikon.com web site.

About Xeikon
A pioneer in digital printing, Xeikon designs, develops and delivers high-end digital color printing systems for the global commercial, document printing and industrial market segments. These systems are composed of advanced web-fed printing engines using LED-array-based, dry toner electrophotography, open workflow software, exclusive toner and other consumables. Xeikon’s production and R&D operations are based in Belgium and its solutions are distributed and supported through a worldwide sales and service network. Xeikon is a division of Punch Graphix. For more information, visit www.xeikon.com.

About Punch Graphix
Punch Graphix provides innovative, competitive and environmentally friendly imaging and printing solutions for the global graphics industry. Under the Xeikon brand name, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers high-end digital color printing systems, software and consumables for the commercial, document printing and industrial markets. Under the basysPrint brand, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers mid to high-end imaging systems for the offset prepress commercial markets. With a clear-minded focus on R&D, Punch Graphix is dedicated to customer satisfaction and aims to deliver cost-effective graphic excellence that goes beyond all expectations. For more information, visit www.punchgraphix.com.

EskoArtwork Lines Up Impressive Array of New Solutions for Labelexpo Europe

2009-07-17T19:36:00.000+02:00

EskoArtwork will be presenting its market-leading solutions for labels and tags at Labelexpo Europe, taking place in Brussels, September 23 through 26, 2009. EskoArtwork offers design and prepress solutions for all label and tag printing processes, including digital printing, offset, gravure, flexo and screen. The EskoArtwork stand will be located in Hall 5, Stand 5B30. In addition, EskoArtwork is participating in the Digital Experience, Hall 9 (Stand 9F100), new at Labelexpo Europe this year.

“Labelexpo Europe is always a terrific event for us,” says Armand Gougay, EskoArtwork Vice President Emeala. “Worldwide label professionals that come looking for solutions to cut cost, time and errors out of their label design and production processes will find in EskoArtwork a partner with innovative solutions that span the entire label pre-production process. The EskoArtwork presence at Labelexpo Europe will certainly demonstrate that when it comes to narrow web solutions, EskoArtwork is definitely not narrow-minded.”

EskoArtwork Digital Flexo: a driving force in the production of quality labels

EskoArtwork presents its range of leading and innovative digital flexo solutions at Labelexpo. HD Flexo, introduced to the market earlier this year, combines 4000 dpi optics with proven screening technology to deliver exceptional flexo print quality in a simple, straightforward manner. Visitors to the EskoArtwork stand will be able to view samples that unequivocally demonstrate why early users of the technology are raving about the exceptional quality they have been able to achieve.

Two members of the CDI family will be on display at Labelexpo: the new CDI Spark 1712 and the CDI Spark 2530, EskoArtwork’s popular CDI model for label printers.

* The CDI Spark 1712 will be presented for the first time in Europe at Labelexpo. The CDI Spark 1712 is a small footprint, cost-effective flexo plate and film imager specifically for narrow web tag and label printers. It images a full size 420 x 300mm (16.5” x 11.8”) plate of arbitrary thickness in 9 minutes 30 seconds. The CDI Spark 1712, along with the entire CDI family, is one of the most versatile imagers available, able to image digital flexo plates, foil-based digital letterpress plates, digital silkscreens, chemistry-free film and offset plates.
* The CDI Spark 2530 is ideal for tag, label and folding carton manufacturers as well as small volume flexo plate producers. The CDI Spark 2530 images digital flexo plates up to 635 x 762mm (25” x 30”). It also comes with an incorporated plate loading table and an EasyClamp II drum for easier and faster plate loading. The CDI Spark 2530 now includes inline UV exposure and a metal drum specifically suited for letterpress.

“Visitors to the EskoArtwork stand will see an amazing array of recent innovations affecting the flexographic manufacturing process,” explains Dr. Thomas Klein, EskoArtwork R&D Manager, Flexo Business. “Intelligent front ends and the Digital Flexo Suite streamline and shorten the process of making digital flexo plates. Inline UV main exposure and HD Flexo technology improve quality and consistency. These innovations reflect EskoArtwork’s dedication to delivering best-in-class solutions to the label and tag market.”

Color for Everyone

Getting color right the first time and every time delivers substantial savings across the entire label value chain. At Labelexpo, EskoArtwork will demonstrate how color management can be easily and effectively integrated into every step of the workflow. On display will be end-to-end solutions for design, pre-press, proofing and output, complete with expert services. EskoArtwork color management demonstrations will feature Equinox (a solution for extended gamut printing), the Kaleidoscope color engine and FlexProof/E with Proof Verification. With these solutions, label and tag manufacturers can ensure brand integrity for their customers, with color consistency from design through proofing and printing across all printing technologies from gravure to flexo to litho to digital.

Design Tools

Studio puts interactive 3D label creation in the hands of the designer. A 3D environment integrated into Adobe® Illustrator® lets designers see their designs applied instantly on 3D packaging shapes. Studio significantly enhances design productivity, reduces the number of mock-ups needed in the process, ensures that design errors are spotted more quickly, and takes the guesswork out of the mock-up process by eliminating the need for 2D flats, thus reducing costs. New at Labelexpo is the introduction of additional Studio 3D shapes for label design for cans and bottles.

Visualizer generates hyper-realistic on-screen mock-ups of label designs including special effects such as embossing, foils, and special finishes. A range of new textures and substrates that expand the versatility of designs that can be visualized with Visualizer will be introduced at Labelexpo.

Dynamic Content for Adobe® Illustrator® enables designers to establish dynamic links to brand owners’ label content such as text, bar codes, and ingredient tables, ensuring that design agencies and pre-press suppliers are working with the most up-to-date version. The newly introduced Dynamic Content Engine provides a collaboration and management environment for storing and maintaining label copy and content.

Innovative Prepress Solutions

EskoArtwork trapping technology is second to none. Understanding of the printing sequence, knowledge of opacity level of inks and insight into special techniques like reverse printing and reverse trapping have resulted in an array of trapping solutions to prepare label designs for top-quality printing. At Labelexpo, EskoArtwork will release the new DeskPack Instant Trapper, a real time intelligent interactive trapping tool for Adobe® Illustrator® that produces high quality and predictable results. In a very intuitive manner DeskPack Instant Trapper allows prepress professionals to judge and trap color scenarios independently, offering a new level of flexibility.

Also new at Labelexpo is the updated version of EskoArtwork's´ most popular pre-press editor, ArtPro 9.5. Based on input from thousands of professional users, ArtPro 9.5 is now even more simple to use, combining an updated user interface with new features that increase productivity.

Further integration of ArtPro, the flagship product for label editing, with EskoArtwork’s complete workflow portfolio has been a priority for the ArtPro 9.5 release. ArtPro 9.5 reads and writes native Esko Normalized PDF files and has support for the ArtiosCAD native format. With the Visualizer Ink Book now supported in ArtPro 9.5, users are able to effortlessly preview finishing and enable layers of label designs in Visualizer.

Variable Data Printing for digital labels

The EskoArtwork Variable Data Printing Module expands EskoArtwork's capabilities in digital printing for HP Indigo industrial presses. This software module was developed specifically to be the first variable data printing solution to fulfill the requirements of labels and packaging markets and is based on EskoArtwork’s extensive experience in this domain. The application uses one-up files from Adobe® Illustrator® or PackEdge, and focuses on variable barcodes, formatted texts and images.

Strong Partnerships

“We are also pleased to be partnering with other industry leaders at Labelexpo Europe,” adds Armand Gougay. “These include HP, ExxonMobil Chemical, Sun Chemical, Xerox, Xeikon, EFI and more. These partnerships enhance EskoArtwork’s already strong position in the label and tag industry, especially with respect to workflow automation and digital printing. This adds significant value for the customers of EskoArtwork and our partners.”

Label printers continue to benefit from EskoArtwork’s partnership with HP which has resulted in a digital front end powered by EskoArtwork as part of an end-to-end HP Indigo digital printing solution for the label, flexible packaging and shrink sleeve industries. EskoArtwork and HP joint solutions can be seen on both the HP and EskoArtwork stands.

EskoArtwork and ExxonMobil Chemical offer a complete solution for optimizing HP Indigo color environments. PacVantage™ integrates the IndiChrome color set into EskoArtwork workflows, takes contract proofing off the press and demonstrates the value of 7 color versus 4 color printing on a proofing device. The PacVantage™ software and technology will be shown jointly with ExxonMobil Chemical.

EskoArtwork and SmartColour, a Sun Chemical company, will demonstrate how EskoArtwork color management workflows now utilize the Sun Chemical SmartColour database of fully spectral ink readings. This solution delivers color-accurate designs and proofs based on real inks on real substrates without the need to fingerprint the press.

EskoArtwork has partnered with many MIS providers to bring the benefits of JDF integration to tag and label converters, including CERM. CERM’s MIS solution has been designed to address common problems in the label industry, including a dedicated module for estimating for labels, management of die-cuts and scheduling, among other capabilities. Its JDF compliance ensures seamless integration and an intelligent JDF connection with other parts of the label and tag manufacturing workflow powered by EskoArtwork. This solution will be demonstrated at Labelexpo in partnership with French press manufacturer Codimag, and a case study will be presented during the Conference Program taking place in the Digital Experience Hall.

Broad offering in narrow web solutions

“EskoArtwork is committed to providing the most comprehensive set of solutions for the label and tag industry, addressing the economic and production challenges facing label and tag converters,” said Carsten Knudsen, EskoArtwork’s CEO. “We also understand the importance of incorporating partner products and services into the mix in order to provide best-in-class solutions that reduce cost, shorten the packaging design lifecycle, and improve the ability of tag and label converters to collaborate with brand owners. Visitors to our stands and those of our partners will see this dedication in action at Labelexpo.”

RPC Oakham Pails Help Unique Decoration

2009-06-19T19:52:00.002+02:00

RPC Containers Oakham has used state-of-the-art digital printing to ensure that the packaging of a new collection of fashion paints delivers an accurate depiction of the range’s unusual shades.

Dekoral Fashion is the premium sub-brand of Poland’s leading paint brand, Dekoral, and is dedicated to providing fashionable consumers with the latest trends for their interiors. Its new collection is Italian Impressions – a range of paints for creating decorative effects in gold, silver and antique gold.

The colour range has been created in partnership with renowned Polish fashion designer Eva Minge. She previewed a new collection of clothing using the same colours at the Dekoral Fashion Show in Warsaw in November 2008.

PPG turned to the expertise of regular supplier RPC Oakham to devise a means of replicating the Italian Impressions colours on the packaging. RPC’s solution is to use self adhesive labels with a combination of digital print on silver foil, which ensures a shiny, metallic appearance. An additional advantage of digital printing is that amendments to the label design can be made quickly and frequently to achieve the best possible end result.

The injection moulded polypropylene pail is supplied in 1 litre, a size considered ideal by PPG for decorating one average wall.

“RPC Oakham has responded to this unusual decorative brief with an eye-catching solution, as well as practical service and support throughout the development process,” confirms Anna Latoszynska, Dekoral Brand Manager of PPG Deco Poland. “The use of digital printing has ensured a flexible and convenient approach to creating a luxurious and unique look for our packaging that presents Italian pictures with shiny golden, silver, and ‘antique’ decoration.”

Dekoral Fashion Italian Impressions consists of 15 ready-mixed acrylic paints in three colour lines: Silver Reflex, Golden Reflex, Antique Gold Reflex. The range is distributed in traditional retail channels and DIY stores across Poland.

New Kodak and Xeikon Alliance Brings Web-Based Solutions to the Digital Label and Packaging Market in the United States and Canada AddThis

2009-06-03T18:19:00.000+02:00

A new alliance between Kodak and Xeikon enables label printers to extend their web-based businesses with branded online ordering of tags, labels, and other print products. It also simplifies and streamlines production, from order origination on the web, via KODAK Web to Print Solutions, to final output on the XEIKON 3300 Digital Color Label Press. The agreement is effective in the United States and Canada

“The adoption of digital printing within the packaging market is growing, and Kodak is excited to work with Xeikon to bring web-to-print solutions to the tag and label market. Kodak’s e-commerce solutions—as well as our web-based tools for content creation, collaboration and approval—connect seamlessly into the production workflow and through to the digital label press,” said Steve Miller, Product Manager, Packaging Workflow, Kodak. “Integrating Kodak’s web-based systems with the XEIKON Press will give label printers the ability to provide new services to existing customers while also attracting new business opportunities.”

Through the agreement, Kodak and Xeikon, a division of Punch Graphix—known in the industry for pioneering the first digital color presses—bring complete web-to-print solutions to the packaging and label market by offering KODAK Web to Print Solutions and the KODAK INSITE Prepress Portal Product family as part of a complementary solution to the XEIKON 3300 narrow-format digital label press.

“We’re always looking for ways to maximize both value and efficiency for our customer base and this latest agreement with Kodak aligns perfectly with this mission,” said Michael V. Ring, Vice President of Sales & Chief Marketing Officer of Xeikon’s North American operations. “Working with Kodak will allow us to offer our customers complete solutions for their packaging and label needs and, in turn, increase their own value within their respective markets.”

KODAK Web to Print Solutions enhance and expand on traditional web-to-print offerings, allowing print service providers to more efficiently implement a web-to-print program with superior levels of workflow integration. The KODAK INSITE Storefront System offers everything label printers need to support online ordering, including a brandable, easy-to-implement, customer-friendly web storefront for secure online ordering and reordering of print products. The storefront functions can be completely integrated into the prepress workflow to create an automated production process from order to output in digital, offset or flexo printing environments.

Streamlined production also is aided by the KODAK Smart Review System, which can be used with a variety of graphic arts file formats and brings together a powerful set of professional proofing and collaboration tools, including an easy-to-use navigation window, densitometer and measurement tools; on-the-fly panning and zooming; image rotation; and approval. The advanced spot color capabilities of the Smart Review System, enabled through KODAK MATCHPRINT Virtual Technology, help ensure superior color accuracy throughout all aspects of the digital label production process, making it easier for images to be proofed and displayed with accurate color on qualified monitors.

The XEIKON 3300 Press delivers seamless high-quality label printing, offering true 1,200 dpi at four bits per spot. With a top speed of 63 feet per minute and a monthly duty cycle of 2.3 million feet, the XEIKON 3300 is an extremely fast digital color label press, particularly suited for short to medium print runs and just-in-time jobs. The fifth color station of the XEIKON 3300 Press can be used for spot colors, as well as “one-hit” opaque white and special security toner. Operating on the XEIKON Form Adapted (FA) toner technology, the XEIKON 3300 combines the benefits of chemically produced toner with the performance of traditionally produced toner. In addition, the FA toner is FDA-approved for use in certain food contact applications.

KODAK Products are backed by KODAK Service and Support. KODAK Service and Support is made up of more than 3,000 professionals reaching more than 120 countries. It is a leading multi-vendor integrated services provider, delivering consulting, installation, maintenance and support services for the commercial printing, graphic communications, document imaging and data storage industries. KODAK Service and Support professionals are uniquely qualified to provide services that control costs, maximize productivity, and minimize business risk.
SOURCE

Fasson® Labelstocks Added to Xeikon Preferred Media

2009-05-25T18:33:00.000+02:00

eikon, a division of Punch Graphix, today announced that it has entered into a preferred media partnership agreement with Avery Dennison, certifying Fasson-brand self-adhesive labelstocks for use on Xeikon reel-to-reel digital label presses. The two companies will collaborate closely to deliver efficient and cost-effective labeling solutions that will further expand the scope of self-adhesive applications using Xeikon technology.

Initially, 14 Fasson self-adhesive labelstocks certified for use with the new Xeikon 3300 and Xeikon 3000 label presses will be offered. As well as the most popular Fasson white paper labelstock, Fasson MC Primecoat, with a choice of adhesives to meet different application requirements, the certified Fasson range includes the new low-caliper film stock Fasson PP Light Top Clear; a specialty wine labelstock, Fasson Matt Wine; and Innovia Films' compostable NatureFlex™ film in a Fasson self-adhesive laminate.

“The quality of the print media contributes significantly to the overall quality of Xeikon imaging. Ever since the launch of our Xeikon range, we have been developing our database of print media to provide our customers with script files for specific print media that will help them get the most out of their Xeikon presses,” explains Filip Weymans, Business Development Manager, Labels & Packaging.

“We are delighted that our customers now also have access to Fasson labelstocks. The certified substrates deliver outstanding print results on Xeikon presses, but equally important is the fact that they are conventional substrates used for the traditional reel-to-reel print processes, like flexo. They are therefore always in stock. Our dry toner-based imaging technology allows the use of such conventional substrates without coating or pre-treatment. Not only is this much more cost-effective, it also facilitates the integration of our digital label presses into traditional production environments.”

Working with all its print media partners, Xeikon has qualified a selection of high-quality substrates, offering customers script files for the most common grades, across the full spectrum of substrate weights. Xeikon’s print media database also contains authorized script files, locally created, regularly updated, and shared by Xeikon users worldwide. The script files for the new range of Fasson labelstocks can be downloaded via the Xeikon website, www.xeikon.com.

Tapecon, an industry leader in providing superior quality custom decals, labels and printed electronics, invests in the Xeikon 3300

2009-02-10T21:12:00.000+01:00

Xeikon, a division of Punch Graphix, legendary for pioneering the first digital color presses, today announced that Tapecon, a leader in providing superior quality custom decals, labels, and printed electronics has recently made an investment in the Xeikon 3300 digital color label press

Tapecon has been exceeding customer expectations for over 90 years. The company utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide innovative and custom solutions to its customers in a wide array of vertical markets, such as food & beverage, health & beauty, medical/medical devices and military, to name a few.

According to Jay Ziegler, Director of Marketing & Strategy at Tapecon, “We take pride in our man and machine competencies and deliver high-impact decal, overlay and label solutions that enhance, identify, and protect our customers’ products. With our digital printing expertise, we are able to offer high-quality, short to medium runs with quicker turnarounds and cost savings to our customers. The Xeikon 3300 will further enable us to provide these value-added solutions. It is truly an industry leading digital color press in terms of its imaging quality, reliability, productivity and eco-friendliness.”

The Xeikon 3300 offers true 1200 dpi resolution at four bits per spot. With a top speed of 63 feet per minute and monthly duty cycle of 2.3 million feet, it is an extremely fast and reliable digital five color label press, particularly suited for short to medium print runs and just-in-time jobs. The press includes five color stations, four of which are for the standard process colors. The fifth color station can be used for spot colors (for gamut expansion and producing brand colors), one-hit opaque white and special security toner. “In our experience, the Xeikon 3300 is the only digital color label press with one-hit opaque white capability,” adds Ziegler.

“One of the major advantages of the Xeikon 3300 is its format flexibility. Unlike other digital label presses, it has no frame size restrictions,” continues Ziegler. The Xeikon 3300 can handle scalable substrate widths up to 13 inches and has virtually no restriction on the length of the printed label. It is capable of handling an unmatched range of substrates from various self adhesive films including co-extruded film, to unsupported film, paper, transparent and opaque foils, and paperboard with weights ranging from 1.6 Mil to 16-point board stock. The dry toner electrophotography imaging process enables the use of conventional substrates without coating or pre-treatment.

The Xeikon 3300 also features full rotary printing technology, enabling printing at rated engine speeds, for maximum productivity. The positioning of the labels can be adjusted to meet finishing equipment requirements and labels with variable formats and sizes can be printed in the same run, leading to increased productivity and reduced waste and costs. In addition, the Xeikon 3300 comes with the latest generation of Xeikon’s unique X-800 digital front-end. Based on open standards, the X-800 enables the implementation of fully automated workflows in any production environment, integrating seamlessly with any MIS. The X-800 processes all common input files and significantly lowers the threshold for including metadata such as sequential numbers or barcodes.

"The Xeikon 3300 has enabled us to continue our tradition of investing in cutting-edge technology and diverse capabilities," concludes Ziegler.

According to Michael V. Ring, Vice President of Sales and Chief Marketing Officer of Xeikon’s North American operations, “With the Xeikon 3300, Tapecon will further enhance its competitive advantage by broadening its array of digital printing labels and strengthen its position as an industry leader.”

SOURCE

Epson scoops seven prestigious iF design awards

2009-01-27T18:38:00.000+01:00

SOURCE: EPSON EUROPE

Epson has been awarded seven iF design awards for 2009. The Epson Stylus Pro GS6000, Epson EMP-400W, Epson TM-S1000, Epson Stylus Office B40W, Epson Stylus Office SX600FW, Epson Stylus Photo PX700W and the Epson Stylus Photo PX800FW have all been recognised in this year’s awards which highlight Epson’s continued investment in product design and innovation. The International Forum Design evaluates products against a number of criteria including design quality, workmanship, innovativeness, environmental compatibility and functionality. As an independent institution it has been rewarding design in industry, as well as providing a window on the latest design developments and trends for over 50 years.

Barbara Kuhr, Head of Strategic Marketing Epson Europe says “Epson considers ease of use, ergonomics and style in all of its product design. We are delighted that the iF jury has recognised Epson’s commitment to bringing stylish and highly innovative products into the market. We will continue to invest time and resources into our core technologies to produce even more award-winning products for the future.”

Summary of 2009 award winning products:

The Epson Stylus Pro GS6000 is a revolutionary high quality 64” large format printer which features an eight colour eco-solvent type ink set developed by Epson. The Epson Stylus Pro GS6000 enables operators to switch easily between a range of different coated and non-coated substrates such as vinyl, making it an ideal, flexible production solution for multiple commercial applications. Integral to the quality and durability of print output is the new Epson UltraChrome™ GS, an 8-colour eco-solvent type ink set (C,M,Y,K,LC,LM,+ O,G) available in efficient 950 ml cartridges. It has an exceptionally wide colour palette which provides enhanced support for commonly used spot colours, making the Stylus Pro GS6000 ideal for branded applications. Importantly for the environment and operators, Epson UltraChrome™ GS ink doesn’t spread harmful VOCs (volatile organic compound) and is the first major eco-solvent type ink set to be launched without the need for a hazard symbol.

The Epson EMP-400W is an ultra-short throwing distance, compact and light-weight projector ideal for corporate presentations, especially within small meeting areas. The projector is able to deliver a clear and sharp focussed 60” picture at just 65cm from the projection surface, eliminating shadow effects that can be caused by presenters standing between the projection unit and the screen. Incorporating Epson’s innovative 3LCD technology, the Epson EMP-400W provides brighter images, more accurate colour reproduction and finer grey scaling. As such, the Epson EMP-400W is ideal for use within the office or educational environment and provides an ideal presentation display tool even within small meeting spaces.

The Epson TM-S1000 is a highly reliable, high-accuracy cheque and coupon scanner. Utilising unique MICR algorithms and binary image processing, the device is one of the most accurate on the market in terms of MICR. Its compact design, accuracy and ease of maintenance and operation makes the TM-S1000 ideal for use in small retail offices, SOHO businesses for remote deposit capture (RDC) and by bank tellers for back office capture (BOC). The TM-S1000 enables retailers to scan, capture and deposit cheques directly to their bank account from their corporate premises, making interaction between banks and depositing customers more efficient.

The Epson Stylus Office B40W is a compact, high-speed desktop inkjet printer which delivers impressive print speeds without compromising on quality. Offering the convenience of fast colour prints in a smartly presented compact design, the Epson Stylus Office B40W is the ideal choice for desktop printing in executive offices. With no warm-up time required, a print speed of up to 38 pages per minute and very low power consumption, this printer is an attractive alternative to laser printers. Utilising Epson DURABrite Ultra individual inks the Epson Stylus Office B40W offers a high yield and low cost per page. Valuable flexibility in the small office is provided where the built-in wireless networking and Ethernet connectivity makes sharing amongst multiple users quick and simple.

The Epson Stylus Office SX600FW is the perfect multi-function printer for home use. Using Epson’s Micro Piezo™ print head technology and encompassing a new high-speed engine, it offers impressive printing speeds. Furthermore, integrated Wi-Fi enables users to connect the device to a wireless network to serve as a centralised hub for wireless printing and scanning for all the family. With individual Epson DURABrite Ultra Ink cartridges the Epson Stylus Office SX600FW provides high-quality documents and lab-quality photos that are water, smudge and fade resistant. The Epson Stylus SX600FW comes with a 6.3cm LCD screen which can be used to view and print photos, send faxes and make quick copies, among other PC-free functions.

The Epson Stylus Photo PX700W combines exceptional functionality with Epson’s renowned quality to produce the perfect home printer for budding photographers or experienced D-SLR users. Featuring an iconic design with clean lines and gloss black finish the Epson Stylus Photo PX700W will integrate seamlessly into any living environment. Featuring individual Claria Photographic Ink and built-in Wi-Fi, users can produce superb borderless (up to A4), better than lab-quality photos from anywhere in the home.

The Epson Stylus Photo PX800FW is a Hi-Definition 4-in-1 printer, fax, copier and scanner with integrated Wi-Fi. Its stylish good looks conceal advanced functionality which is accessed and controlled via an impressive touch panel interface. Ideal for all home applications, including premium home photo printing, users can expect photographic prints that will exceed lab print quality using Epson’s individual Claria Photographic Ink. Designed to seamlessly integrate into any living space, the Epson Stylus Photo PX800FW comes with a black gloss finish, giving it a modern look. Its carefully considered contours hide an automatic document feeder whilst the twin paper trays are fully integrated adding to its overall sleek design that won’t disrupt the aesthetic of your home.

The award ceremony will be held on 3 March 2009 during the CeBIT fair in Hannover.

2009-01-08T22:23:00.002+01:00

Innovia Films has recently expanded its range of Indigo® printable label films with the launch of two 'squeezable' films.

These latest developments are Rayoface™ CZDI, a high performance clear high gloss film and Rayoface™ WZDI, a white high gloss non cavitated film. Both biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) label facestock films are coated with a new top coating which has been specifically designed to be compatible with the HP Indigo® range of digital offset colour printing presses

HP Indigo Press ws4500 Reinvents In-Mold Label Production at Vibrant Graphics

2008-12-22T15:08:00.000+01:00

HP today announced that label and packaging converter Vibrant Graphics, a division of On-Course Information Services, has reengineered its business and extended the digital printing platform into in-mold label production by recently installing a new HP Indigo press ws4500. With industry-leading quality, the new press brings an increased level of functionality and flexibility to run-length quantity and personalization in the in-mold label market.

Following the new press installation, the Milwaukee, Wis.-based company changed its name from Express Labels to Vibrant Graphics to better communicate its broader service offering to customers. While Vibrant Graphics previously focused on thermal inkjet label production, the addition of the HP Indigo liquid electrophotographic process allows Vibrant Graphics to provide high-quality color and pursue a wider range of profit opportunities. The company now produces in-mold labels for use on a variety of products, including cups and medical containers. The company is successfully marketing itself to businesses that have used in-mold labels in the past, but were prohibited from pursuing personalization and short-run options because of the limitations of analog production processes.

“Converters can create a strong competitive advantage by using HP Indigo equipment,” said Rich Raimondi, vice president and general manager, U.S. Graphic Arts Organization, HP. “Vibrant Graphics is evolving its business to achieve higher growth and financial success by combining its skills and experience with HP’s industry-leading graphic arts solutions.”

Leveraging the industry’s widest range of certified media
HP Indigo presses provide outstanding print quality and color consistency on the industry’s widest range of certified media. The HP Indigo press ws4500 prints on the same media used in many traditional in-mold packaging operations, ensuring that Vibrant Graphics can truly provide a product that has the look and feel of a traditionally printed in-mold label while also offering the unique advantages of digital printing.

“With our HP Indigo press, we can create in-mold labels for new, unique applications, such as variable-data work that can personalize labels to individual customers,” said Bob Travis, general manager, Vibrant Graphics. “HP has enabled our customers to go to markets they thought they could never reach.”

Designed for continuous operation, the HP Indigo press ws4500 is a robust, reliable production device that offers a fully automated workflow as well as enhanced color capabilities. The press is part of a complete HP Graphic Arts portfolio that delivers digital printing platforms designed to increase print speeds and lower the cost of printing for high-volume commercial markets. The press’ unprecedented capability to switch spot colors between jobs with near-zero downtime gives converters a distinct competitive advantage.

Trisoft Graphics, Inc., Selects KODAK FLEXCEL NX Digital Flexographic System for Outstanding Print Quality

2008-12-09T20:22:00.000+01:00

Trisoft Graphics, Inc., a digital prepress and graphic design company serving the packaging industry since 1993, recently installed a KODAK FLEXCEL NX Digital Flexographic System to more effectively meet the quality demands of its diverse customer base. Trisoft Graphics is headquartered in Costa Mesa, Calif., with a branch office in Makati City, Philippines, and does much of its business for label printers and the packaging industry.

Trisoft Graphics currently has a KODAK THERMOFLEX Narrow Platesetter and plans to use both systems simultaneously. The company’s new FLEXCEL NX System includes a KODAK TRENDSETTER NX Mid Imager and KODAK FLEXCEL NX Digital Flexographic Plates.

“We’ve been testing the plates produced by the FLEXCEL NX,” noted Tristan Zafra, Owner of Trisoft Graphics. “During these blind tests, we processed very complex and demanding jobs, and the FLEXCEL NX Digital Flexographic Plates repeatedly produced excellent results from a variety of presses, and from multiple customers. The ability to easily use these plates on any press adds flexibility and productivity, and we are confident that currently there’s nothing that can match the quality of the FLEXCEL NX as far as plate and print quality.”

Trisoft Graphics prides itself on innovation and always looks at new technologies to position itself for the future. With this new solution the company will be among the first to make flexo plates that rival the quality of offset and gravure printing. In 2003, Trisoft Graphics was the first service provider on the West Coast to implement a THERMOFLEX Platesetter. In 2004, it was the first service provider on the West Coast to implement thermal processing for its plate processor. With the installation of this FLEXCEL NX System, the company is once again leading the way on the West Coast.

Because solvent is used to process the FLEXCEL NX Plates, safety was a concern. “Like all California customers, environmental issues are high on Trisoft’s priority list,” explained John Anderson, Flexo Plates Product Manager, Americas, Kodak’s Graphic Communications Group. “But the latest developments in solvent washout solutions mean that users can get the performance they have come to expect from solvent processed plates while effectively managing their workplace environmental issues. In reality, our flexo customers can make positive environmental contributions by using fewer plates. The unprecedented stability and predictability in both platemaking and printing that is enabled by the FLEXCEL NX System combines for longer plate life, fewer remakes, and less plate and press waste.”

Winner of the 2008 PIA/GATF InterTech Technology Award and the Flexographic Pre-Press Platemakers Association (FPPA) Technology Innovator of the Year Award, the KODAK FLEXCEL NX Digital Flexographic System provides previously unachievable offset class, gravure quality printing on a wide variety of substrates—including paper, flexible film, foil, paperboard and label stock. The FLEXCEL NX System helps ensure stability and repeatability, both in prepress and on press.

KODAK Products are backed by KODAK Service and Support. KODAK Service and Support is made up of more than 3,000 professionals reaching more than 120 countries. It is a leading multi-vendor integrated services provider, delivering consulting, installation, maintenance and support services for the commercial printing, graphic communications, document imaging and data storage industries. KODAK Service and Support professionals are uniquely qualified to provide services that control costs, maximize productivity, and minimize business risk.

LINK: KODAK

Weber Marking’s Installation of the HP Indigo Press ws4500 is the Key to Driving New Profit Opportunities

2008-11-17T20:13:00.001+01:00

HP announced that Weber Marking Systems purchased an HP Indigo press ws4500 from the show floor at the recent Labelexpo Americas trade show, a decision that points to the 75-year-old company’s decision to integrate industry leading HP Indigo digital technology into its flexographic label printing facility. With the new press, installed in September shortly after Labelexpo ended, the Arlington Heights, Ill.-based company is striving to improve overall profitable growth based on the evolving needs of its customer base.

“Converters like Weber Marking Systems, which owe their success and longevity to an ability to meet customer demand and provide excellent service, can improve profitability and do more for their clients with the production flexibility and true offset quality of the HP Indigo press ws4500,” said Jan Riecher, vice president and general manager, Americas Graphics Solutions Business, HP.

The seven-color press, which was purchased along with a Digicon finishing system from AB Graphics, fits Weber’s need for efficient ramp-up and cost-effective production on new work from its customers, a growing number of which are expressing interest in multiple-SKU work and versioning jobs that can incur significant prepress costs when produced on flexographic devices.

“Although we’ve purchased scores of presses in the last 20 years, never has the ‘new press’ excitement level approached that of our ws4500,” said Thomas Michalsen, director of marketing, Weber Marking Systems. “The difference today is the ws4500’s positive value proposition. It speaks to all of Weber’s divisions: Sales, Marketing, Production, Quality, and Finance.

“It was great to see our press in action at HP’s Labelexpo booth,” Michalsen added. “We are now able to begin transitioning existing jobs to improve profitability and to start drawing new customers to our company with digital technology.”

Detailed analysis shows significant potential benefits
While Weber completed its purchase at Labelexpo Americas, the company had closely observed developments with HP Indigo label and packaging presses for several years. An analysis of Weber’s work done through the HP Indigo Label Job Estimator, a tool that is part of the HP Graphic Arts Capture Business Success Program, provided insights into why installing the HP Indigo press ws4500 made sense.

“A lot of the new business label converters win comes with investments in prepress that are not always fully recouped,” said Michalsen. “If it is a customer who is ordering 100 different SKUs on a four-, five-, or six-color job, the HP Indigo is the only solution we have seen where you can gain an immediate return.”

Working with HP consultants to analyze jobs printed over a six-month period, Weber executives came to the determination that as much as 31 percent of the work the company does on its 39 flexo presses could profitably transition to digital with HP Indigo technology. The HP Indigo press ws4500 is generally more cost-effective than flexo on jobs up to 6,500 linear feet(1). In addition, by eliminating makeready time with the HP Indigo press ws4500, the company can save as much as 2,500 feet of scrap created with typical jobs, which can translate into significant savings on label media.

Weber also benefits from a nearly seamless workflow integration with the new HP Indigo press. The company currently uses EskoArtwork prepress systems for its flexo work. The digital front end sold with all new HP Indigo press ws4500s, the HP SmartStream Labels and Packaging Print Server, was created for HP through an original equipment manufacturer agreement with EskoArtwork, and is fully compatible with EskoArtwork’s workflow products for the flexo industry.

Designed for continuous operation, the HP Indigo press ws4500 is a robust, reliable production device that offers a fully automated workflow as well as enhanced color capabilities. The HP Indigo press ws4500’s six- and seven- color process-color matching capabilities, as well as its capability to print with and switch spot colors between jobs with virtually no downtime, give converters a distinct competitive advantage.

About Weber Marking Systems
Weber Marking Systems is a leading worldwide innovator in the design, manufacture, and supply of high-performance labels and labeling solutions. Weber provides the latest in systems, software, and media and supports them with direct sales, equipment service, and technical assistance. The company has sales offices and service locations throughout the United States. Weber also has operations in Canada, Australia, Europe and Asia. Additional details on Weber’s domestic and international capabilities and locations are available at www.webermarking.com.

About HP
HP, the world's largest technology company, provides printing and personal computing products and IT services, software and solutions that simplify the technology experience for consumers and businesses. HP completed its acquisition of EDS on Aug. 26, 2008. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com

Leading label manufacturer ERO-ETIKETT goes digital with the Xeikon 3300

2008-11-03T11:46:00.001+01:00

Xeikon has announced today that ERO-ETIKETT GmbH (‘ERO-ETIKETT’) has chosen the Xeikon 3300 to make the move to digital label printing.

A long-standing traditional label printer, ERO-ETIKETT serves leading businesses in the food and beverages, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Paying meticulous attention to detail and accurate color reproduction, the company has forged a solid reputation for high-quality label production. With the Xeikon 3300 the company will be able to extend its offering, incorporating all the advantages digital printing has to offer.

Xeikon achieves resounding success at Labelexpo Americas 2008

2008-10-04T15:09:00.000+02:00

Xeikon (www.xeikon.com), a division of Punch Graphix, legendary for pioneering the first digital color presses, announced today that it had an extremely successful Labelexpo Americas 2008.

The Xeikon booth was the hub of activity throughout the show. With continuous stream of visitors, it was one of the major attractions in the Digital Experience Hall. Xeikon’s latest digital color label technology platform received a very positive feedback from label converters who were impressed with its productivity, image quality and eco-friendliness. Many label converters were of the opinion that the Xeikon technology is truly inimitable as it combines the best characteristics of flexography and short-run digital. In addition, the industry experts recognized the innovative capabilities of the Xeikon solution and bestowed the company with the New Innovation Award at the Label Industry Global Awards gala held during the show.

At the show, the company demonstrated the Xeikon 3300 digital label press that was unveiled at drupa earlier this year. The show also marked the launch of the Xeikon 3000, the entry level counterpart of the Xeikon 3300. The Xeikon 3300 ran almost non-stop throughout the show, a unique feat, and produced more than 65,000 linear feet of labels. This one-of-a-kind performance displays its robustness and high volume production capabilities. All these labels were die-cut, UV-Coated, super-glossed and rewound on a converting unit running inline with the Xeikon 3300.

Xeikon also participated in multiple panel discussions in the Digital Experience Hall. During these discussions, attendees were able to direct specific questions to the Xeikon experts and increase their understanding of the digital label technology in general and the Xeikon offerings in particular.

At Labelexpo, the Xeikon 3300 produced labels containing the four standard process colors as well as labels containing spot red and opaque white colors, all on the same production set-up. The booth visitors were impressed with the vivid color reproduction, perfect color registration and color consistency of these labels. They were also amazed by the fact that the speed of the Xeikon 3300 is independent of the number of colors that are required for a specific job, one of the many unique capabilities of the Xeikon technology that make it the most productive digital color label press available on the market today. In addition, Xeikon’s “one hit” opaque white capability to create that sought after ‘no label look’ attracted a lot of attention.

Another unique characteristic of the Xeikon 3300 that booth visitors were able to experience first-hand is that it can print on virtually any label stock, including self-adhesive label stock, unsupported film, paperboard and even uncoated paper. This last option is especially attractive to price sensitive label converters who do not want to use expensive over-laminates on their substrates. Moreover, the Xeikon 3300 can handle substrate weights from 40 gsm (27 lb text) to 350 gsm (122 lb cover), providing unparalleled range of substrate options to its users.

According to Michael V. Ring, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Xeikon’s North American operations, “We are extremely pleased and excited about the response we received at Labelexpo. Xeikon is one of the very few companies that provide fully automated and streamlined solutions for the label and packaging space, including our own dry toner and digital front-end technology. We are looking forward to helping label converters acquire digital color capabilities to complement their current production set-ups.”

To provide a first-hand proof of Xeikon’s unique technological capabilities to label converters, the company has also started a “Do-the-benchmark” initiative. Under this initiative, label converters would be able to choose from certain selected label stocks and upload some of their own files to be printed on the Xeikon 3300. Label converters are encouraged to go to www.xeikon.com for participation.

About Xeikon
A pioneer in digital printing, Xeikon designs, develops and delivers high-end digital color printing systems for the global commercial, document printing and industrial market segments. These systems are composed of advanced web-fed printing engines using LED-array-based, dry toner electrophotography, open workflow software, exclusive toner and other consumables. Xeikon’s production and R&D operations are based in Belgium and its solutions are distributed and supported through a worldwide sales and service network. Xeikon is a division of Punch Graphix. For more information, visit www.xeikon.com

About Punch Graphix
Punch Graphix provides innovative, competitive and environmentally friendly imaging and printing solutions for the global graphics industry. Under the Xeikon brand name, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers high-end digital color printing systems, software and consumables for the commercial, document printing and industrial markets. Under the basysPrint brand, Punch Graphix designs, develops and delivers mid to high-end imaging systems for the offset prepress commercial markets. With a clear-minded focus on R&D, Punch Graphix is dedicated to customer satisfaction and aims to deliver cost-effective graphic excellence that goes beyond all expectations. For more information, visit www.punchgraphix.com
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