Digital driving forward

21 January 2009



The year 2008 saw a number of innovative launches in digital label printing


Xeikon launched two digital colour label presses in 2008. The 3300 and the 3000 models were both said to represent a quantum leap in label print quality, offering 1,200 dpi at four bits per spot.

With a top speed of 63 ft/min and a monthly duty cycle of 2.3mn ft, the 3300 press is suited for short to medium print runs and just-in-time jobs. The 3000 model is its entry level counterpart, and for label converters wanting to focus on niche applications such as paperboard packaging or textile transfer printing. Top speed is 31.5 ft/min, and monthly duty cycle 1.5mn ft.

The presses can print four process colours plus a range of standard or custom spot colours. They can also apply special security toner for anti-counterfeiting applications, and opaque white for the ‘no label look’.

The main innovation from HP Indigo in 2008 was the launch of the WS6000 digital press, offering speeds of 30m/min and resolutions up to 1,200 dpi. Aimed at label printers and flexible packaging converters with average monthly volumes in excess of 300,000 linear metres, it complements the ws4500 model for lower capacities.

Other features of the WS6000 include higher capacity HP ElectroInk cartridges and a fast ink replacement feature that enables on-the-fly colour changes of optional colours.

Claimed to extend the break-even point with conventional printing for cost effective production of jobs up to an average of 4,000 m, it can handle a wide range of substrates from 12 to 450 micron, enabling labels, shrink sleeves, flexible packaging and cartons to be printed.


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HP Indigo
Xeikon



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