Media & Substrates

Pablo M. Lee

Pablo M. Lee

Built on the success of its market-leading predecessor, Esko launches its latest generation native PDF editor for packaging and label prepress, ArtPro+ 20.0.

The software premieres a host of new features, including 70% faster trapping, significant time and material savings for staggered plate cutting, as well as simplification of shrink sleeve jobs. This new software promises increases packaging prepress efficiency by eliminating errors and increasing automation of the editing process.

Miyakoshi Printing Machinery Co., Ltd. (Miyakoshi), announced the official launch of its new inkjet digital press for flexible packaging, the MJP30AXF.

The MJP30AXF has 750mm(30 inch) wide with a 50 meter per minute printing speed. High resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi and automatic registration control and missing nozzle compensation for minimizing printing errors.

Friday, 14 August 2020 17:55

APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS

APPPEXPO, Shanghai International Ad & Sign Technology & Equipment Exhibition has become a vital platform to get the latest in the digital printing industry corporation image, product display, international exchanges and international trade, and has played an active role in promoting the development of China's advertising and signage industry and despite adverse forecasts this year was not the exception.

The 2020 APPPEXPO and 28th Shanghai International Advertising & Sign Technology & Equipment Exhibition were held at the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Shanghai) on July 21-24.

Despite the impact of the outbreak that is lived worldwide, the exhibition went all out to overcome the difficulties. This year, the exhibition area was 100,000 ㎡, and had over over 1,000 exhibitors and 106,036 visitors and buyers.


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS

During the exhibition several events were held, among them were: "Rejuvenation: The Palace Impression" (Forbidden City themed ), 2020 China Advertising Art Craft Competition, APPPEXPO annual Star of 2020 Award Ceremony and Advertising Industry Technology Salon, "Touch And Go" Digital Inkjet High-end Development Forum, "Creativity And Inspiration" Creative Design Summit, "Have Fun With Digital Printing" activities and many more.


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS

This year’s APPPEXPO made greater use of technology to be able to include people who were unable to travel as a result of the current global situation, threw its weight behind the push of appptrade.com – a new online exhibition platform, which includes digital exhibition hall, supply and demand matching, exchange transactions, video negotiations, online live broadcast, multi-form audience invitation and a series of powerful business functions in addition to the exhibition itself.

In addition APPPEXPO made use of other technological tools to link with the rest of the world, performing over 36 online live broadcasts, live-streaming, online seminar and using WeChat mini-program in order to provide opportunities for domestic exhibitors, international media associations, industry experts and buyers to communicate efficiently, to open up a broader business opportunities.


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS


APPPEXPO 2020 INSIGHTS

Photo courtesy of APPPEXPO


The APPPEXPO exhibition definitely provides a one-stop solution for the advertising and signage industry, strengthens relationships of the advertising and signage industry, and explores the new development of advertising and signage in the future. See you next year at APPPEXPO 2021.



Thursday, 13 August 2020 17:46

INTAMSYS FLEX 510

The 3D printer manufacturer INTAMSYS introduces their new FLEX 510 high-speed 3D printer for flexible materials production. The FLEX 510 is specially designed for producing sporting goods, medical rehabilitation equipment, tooling & fixtures and more. The FLEX 510 has been provided with the Smart eXtruder Bay System (SXBS) technology which enables a seamless design and manufacturing connection.

Flexible materials such as TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane), combines the characteristics of plastic and rubber, and can produce elastic, highly durable, bendable or compressed parts, which are one of the best choices for sporting goods design, fashion design and medical rehabilitation equipment.

INTAMSYS’s SXBS technology can manage up to four nozzles which can freely be switched during the printing process, and can print up to four different TPU materials or four different colors per print, enhancing the printing efficiency.

The printer also incorporates the High Speed Flexible Material Extrusion (HSFE) technology, a high-speed flexible material extrusion technology developed by INTAMSYS, which solves one of the industry biggest challenges, a slow process caused by flexible materials being too soft to feed through the system at a fast pace.

The printing efficiency can be increased thanks to an independent dual-nozzle configuration that can achieve duplicate printing or mirror printing, at an ultra-fast pace.


Intamsys-flex-510

INTAMSYS FLEX 510 3D printer for flexible materials production. Photo courtesy www.intamsys.com



Intamsys-flex-510


Intamsys-flex-510

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) flexible materials. Photo courtesy www.intamsys.com


Caldera in cooperation with Zünd announced the launch of its new PrimeCenter software; a prepress automation solution designed to help wide format digital printers to save time as they prepare jobs for printing.

Jobs are submitted to the prepress station, either manually from a WebShop or from an ERP. Then PrimeCenter generates nested layouts based on ”recipes” created by the operator.

The new software comes in three distinct editions:

PrimeCenter Basic requires users to manually apply a combination of actions such as preflight, nesting and bleeding in what we call recipes.

PrimeCenter Pro the application of recipes is semi-automated via the automatic import of incoming files. Layouts are automatically generated, though not instantly exported to the controller or the RIP.

PrimeCenter Max, additionally automatically exports the layouts from the incoming files to the controller or the RIP.

Tuesday, 11 August 2020 17:01

EFI MarketDirect Fulfillment

EFI MarketDirect Fulfillment is an inventory management solution designed to simplify and automate the pick and pack order workflows. This new inventory management product is part of the MarketDirect suite of web-to-print, eCommerce and cross media solutions.

Equipped with intuitive and flexible administration tools, the new fulfillment offers creates a seamless order-to-fulfillment workflow that businesses can use to expand service offerings, creating efficiency in warehouse operations and drive even greater customer loyalty.

Regardless of whether you’re offering fully managed print inventory fulfillment services or just managing a few items for one or two customers, MarketDirect Fulfillment makes it easy to simultaneously provide an intuitive order portal for your customers and a lightweight admin dashboard for your staff.

This new software offers delivers out-of-the-box functionality for existing MarketDirect StoreFront web-to-print/eCommerce users, with a structure designed to reduce the time and complexities needed to start and manage print fulfillment operations. MarketDirect Fulfillment also leverages the latest in web eCommerce technology to provide a brilliantly simple and powerful administrative dashboard to manage both clients and orders.

EFI MarketDirect Fulfillment is ideal for commercial print and packaging businesses, in-plant print centers and corporate marketing communications teams looking to create immersive order and fulfillment portals for customers with an easy-to-use and intuitive administrative dashboard for staff. As a part of the EFI MarketDirect StoreFront web-to-print workflow solution, both customers and internal users are presented with a familiar interface that gets them up and running quickly and efficiently.

MarketDirect Fulfillment is designed for print service providers offering pick and pack, inventory management and warehousing services.

This includes:

  • Commercial Printers
  • Packaging printers (Folding carton and Tag & Label)
  • InPlant Print Centers
  • Corporate marketing and communication teams


  • MarketDirect is integrated with the following EFI Productivity Suite solutions:

  • EFI Midmarket Print Suite (EFI Pace core)
  • EFI Enterprise Print Suite (EFI Monarch core)
  • EFI Packaging Print Suite (EFI Radius core)
  • EFI Quick Print Suite (EFI PrintSmith Vision Core)
  • EFI PrintStream Fulfillment Solution
  • EFI Fiery Servers and Controllers


  • In addition to EFI solutions, MarketDirect is designed to integrate with a wide range of services and applications to ensure your data, jobs, user data and orders are accessible across a variety of industry standard platforms including:

    Active Directory – SSO (Single Sign On)

    SSO (Single Sign On) Authentication enables you to integrate StoreFront with a service to ensure users can seamlessly login via 3rd party services.

    CorpSystem Sales Tax Online by CCH

    With CorpSystem Sales Tax by CCH, you can ensure you’re collecting taxes correctly for any jurisdiction in the United States.

    PunchOut integration via XML

    Using PunchOut integration you can embed your products directly into 3rd party procurement systems – simplifying purchasing for your buyers.


    EFI-MarketDirect-Fulfillment


    EFI-MarketDirect-Fulfillment

    Photo courtesy www.efi.com


    dgen recently announced the release of one of its latest Teleios Series textile printer. The Teleios Grande H12; which features six colours, 12 heads, higher resolution and higher speed.

    The Teleios Grande H12 prints without coating on 3300mm wide fabrics and completes printing without steam. The textile pigment ink, which is printed directly on uncoated cotton/poly/blend fabric, prevents head clogging even when not used for a long time.

    Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions announced the introduction of its Spring 2020 Rugged and Luxurious color collection, which includes six new color and texture options.

    Rugged Supreme Wrapping Film is a 3D conformable, textured color changing film, available in four colors: Rugged Onyx, Rugged Combat Green, Rugged Bedrock Grey and Rugged Marsh Green. It gives vehicles the look and feel of a bed liner without the permanent application.

    Luxurious Supreme Wrapping Film features the new Obsidian Black, the company’s deepest, blackest pigment, and Satin Dark Grey.

    “The new color collection was created with the experiential demands of the wrap designer in mind—a visual excitement that comes from the juxtaposition of film color and effect—evoking a statement of style and point of view that comes from a combination of satin, gloss and textured pigments. There’s a tone, texture and style to match any attitude,” Abby Monnot, Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions North America, marketing director.

    Monday, 03 August 2020 15:48

    LogoJET Express 30R printer

    LogoJET announces its newest Express 30R printer; a tabletop UV model built with the same technology as LogoJET’s UVx40R and UVx90R. The Express 30R is a direct-to-substrate printer that can print on wide variety of substrates, it has an 11” x 15” printable area, up to 2.5” height.

    “In creating the Express 30R, we were able to design the system with the same industrial components, the same fit-for-purpose,” Lon Riley, LogoJET’s Chief Operating Officer. “This new printer allows customers to put a printer with full UV capabilities in places where larger machines would present challenges.”


    LogoJET-Express-30R

    LogoJET Express 30R printer. Photo courtesy www.logojet.com


    Tuesday, 04 August 2020 22:09

    Wallpaper 2020 Market

    For a long time wallpaper has been used to decorate residential or commercial spaces; some times to protect the wall surfaces from accidental marks, scratches or just to hide the flaws in the wall that are impossible to hide with just paint.

    Wall coverings originally were made of cloth, but with the development of the paper industry, cloth wall coverings were replaced by wallpaper, which was less expensive.

    In recent years, the demand for more creative designs and more modern but ecofriendly materials that meet daily needs has increased. The easy access to new substrates as well as to new printing systems helps satisfy this demand and still allows new applications through the use of digital printing technology.

    As more people work from home, the lifestyle has changed a lot in order to find a balance between work and social life. The traditional standards of decoration and distribution of both residential and commercial spaces have had to converge in order to interact in a balanced way.

    Modern digital inkjet printing technologies using different types of inkjet inks are used for custom wallpaper production. Very small runs can be made; new designs can be produced and tested easily and quickly for individual clients.

    Thanks to social media, a new generation with the do-it-yourself trend is discovering wallpaper; identifying it as a way to easily personalize spaces in a short time and without any difficulty. These new wallpapers are easy to install, waterproof, tear resistant and made of breathable materials that prevent molding on walls.

    Since 2018, the global Wall Covering market has maintained a healthy growth rate of more than 3.8% yearly and expected to reach approximately $27 billions value market by 2026.

    “According to Google data, wallpaper-related searches are up an average of 50 percent the past 12 months versus the 12 months prior.”

    But you always have to wait for the unexpected. At the beginning of the year when some market projections were made the unexpected factors were not taken into account.

    The digitally printed wallpaper industry expected a huge growth thanks to the large-scale investments in urbanization & industrial sectors; but the global impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) are already starting to be felt and the Wall Covering market is not an exception.

    The virus is affecting the global economy in different ways: affecting production and demand, creating supply chain and market disruption, and by its financial impact on firms and financial markets.

    But there are many factors that, despite what is being experienced around the world, will help the development of the wallcovering market (although not at the expected speed).

    The fact that we now work from home and spend more time in it, gives us the opportunity to perceive our spaces differently. We went from seeing a room as a simple study to seeing it as a potential space that will recall our past travels around the world or places that we wish to be.

    With extra free time, the possibility of spending more time on social networks as well as DIY (Do It Yourself) sites have made us self-taught interior decorators, who are always looking for a space in the house that needs a new look.

    These wallpapers are created by consumer requirements. Digitally printed wallpapers on easy-to-remove substrates also allow consumers to change their wallpapers easily by themselves without the need for previous experience, increasing its demand in the industry.

    The rising demand for custom wallpapers has encouraged market vendors to adopt short-run digital wallpaper printing solutions, which offer shorter runs and faster delivery times at an affordable price.

    The demand from the customers has been increasing the market, and the technological advancement of digital printing systems have been capable of serving the high requirement.

    New latex inks allow us to decorate indoor environments even in hospitals without worrying about the toxic fumes. UV and UV-LED printers open us to new printing possibilities on almost on all types of materials (from PVC to wooden doors). Textile printers allow us to print complex designs on different types of fabric that we can combine even with the clothes we wear.

    The popularity of custom wallpapers is growing thanks to the ability to provide the exact look and feel desired by consumers; companies are coming up with a diverse range of wallpapers that resemble the looks of a landscape of some distant forest, a fantastic ocean view, cracked brick wall, some textile designs, among others.

    All of these benefits of digital wallpaper printing will significantly drive the digitally printed wallpaper market growth, turning wallpaper into a fundamental pillar in it in the world of design and décor.


    Wallpaper-2020-market


    Wallpaper-2020-market


    Wallpaper-2020-market


    Wallpaper-2020-market


    Wallpaper-2020-market


    Wallpaper-2020-market


    Wallpaper-2020-market


    Wallpaper-2020-market

    FLAAR-REPORTS Archive


    Screen printing process it’s more complicated and laborious than digital printing. The entire process is made up of several steps that take so long that it would be a shame to delay or even ruin it due to poor preparation of the printing file.

    There are probably a million variations on this process, and everyone does it a little differently. This time we will see it from the point of view of a digital printing graphic designer, who from time to time must do screen printing and the mistakes I have made (and boy I have made mistakes).

    First thing first

    First of all we must understand that the screen printng is divided into two categories: spot color or four color.

    Spot color means that each color is separate prints only in that shade. So if you have a three-color design, you would need to create a film for each of those three colors and would be printed one at a time.

    Four color process is used to replicate photographs, paintings and any other kind of art with a variety of colors in different shades and gradations. When using four-color process, the image must be separated into cyan, magenta, yellow and black (CMYK).

    Vectors vs. Raster Image

    Before starting the creative process you must be very clear about the use that will be given to your design; since this will depend on the choice of software that we will use to design our art.

    Raster image

    Raster graphics images are best used for digitized photographs, scanned artwork or detailed graphics.

    When you create your design in a raster based software you are kind of married with the original dimensions.

    Always remember to start your documents at the intended print size with a resolution of 300 pixels per inch. If you have drawn the artwork at actual size, then scan it at 300 dpi. If your artwork was created a 50% scale, then you will need to scan the artwork at double the recommended resolution (scan at 600 dpi).

    Common raster formats include TIFF, JPEG, GIF, PCX and BMP files.

    Vector

    There is no limit for sizing vector images. Can be resized indefinitely without sacrificing print quality, blurriness or pixelation that occurs when resizing images created in photographic software.

    Common vector formats include AI, EPS, SVG, and sometimes PDF.

    Avoid web Images

    Using images from the web can be convenient, but keep in mind that most of these images are very small and with low resolution (most of the time they are set to only 72 dpi)

    Convert your text to outlines

    Always remember to convert your font to outline on all your text, this allows to open the file without requiring the original font file or modify the design.

    Choose your color

    Using a specific Pantone for each color will help to properly match your design without any color variation.

    Porosity of the substrate

    The porosity and texture of the materials is something that must be keep in mind. For exapmle some fabric has holes that cannot be printed on, so you should keep your design details to a minimum.

    Think on the background color

    If you are going to printing on a dark color (or transparency), you will need to add white ink layer under the image to make sure the colors are visible.

    ALWAYS save an editable copy

    When you finally have finish your design, always be sure to keep an editable copy of your work, just in case you need to do some last minutes adjustments.


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing


    Dos-and-Donts-When-Preparing-Artwork-for-Screen-Printing

    FLAAR-REPORTS photo archive.


    Three months have passed since I wrote the FIRST PART of what appears to be a multi-part story, dedicated to keeping track of how the world of digital printing has coped with the COVID-19 global pandemic.

    With more than 4,228,896 confirmed active cases, 285,363 deaths and 1,512,971 recovered around the world, it seems that this virus has been much more aggressive than the world thought. Even with the hermetic closure of borders around the world this has been spread throughout it.

    China, the country where the virus originated, finally has managed to significantly flatten the contagion curve; decreasing new cases per day, as well as the number of deaths. Iran and Italy who were also severely affected have also managed to flatten the curve. But now the virus has reached the new continent, and the United States is one of the most affected countries. Although many measures have been taken to contain COVID 19, it is still far from the whole world flattening the curve.

    At a time when the whole wold struggles to control the virus, we all agree that the coronavirus has the potential to be as damaging to the human health as for the global economy. With almost everyone in quarantine and only the essential businesses working, it hasn't taken long to make the economic effects felt in all industries.

    AVIANCA, Latin America's second largest airline, has filed for bankruptcy protection in a US court, since the pandemic had cut more than 80% of its income and the airline industry continues with more and more travel restrictions.


    digital-printing-industry-in-times-of-COVID-19-2

    Photo courtesy of www.news.gtp.gr


    With the majority of people locked at home and the mobility restrictions imposed by governments around the world, the oil demand also has decreased to such a point that the barrel of oil is almost the same price as it was in 1974 “$24.37” (acording to www.oilprice.com, May 2020-05-11).

    These have been times of change and evolution around the world. From the oil industry to the printing industry we have been affected in one way or another.

    With many trade shows canceled or postponed, It seems that this year will be a very difficult year for companies that had their hopes set in this new decade for the launch of new technology. We will have to wait and see if the tradeshows postponed for the other half of the year can be made or if 2020 really will be a year without exhibitions.

    But something that has always characterized the printing industry is that despite the difficulties has always managed to adapt and get ahead. This is a united industry that never gives up and always looks for a way to get afloat, keeping their human side and reaching out to help each other.

    Such is the case of A.T. INKS, that despite having delivery times for its products, they have also managed to readjust their work chain to produce hand sanitizer to help their country (India) with the shortages of this product.


    digital-printing-industry-in-times-of-COVID-19-2

    digital-printing-industry-in-times-of-COVID-19-2

    Hand sanitizer manufactured by A.T. INKS. Photo courtesy A.T. INKS.


    Just like A.T. INKS many other ink companies, such as Polymeric Group, Marabu, and Dupont among many others, have also joined forces using their expertise in formulation and production to help provide solutions, developing various products that are of great importance in order to stop COVID-19.

    Durst Phototechnik is producing community masks in its demo center at Brixen, Italy. Just Vision It (JVI), a dye sublimation wholesale manufacturer based in Missouri, is also manufacturing sublimated facemask to support efforts toward preventing the spread of the virus.


    digital-printing-industry-in-times-of-COVID-19-2

    Photo courtesy www.durst-group.com


    The difficult times are those that have shaped us into what we are now. A solid industry with a human side that has always characterized us. I know that this will not be solved overnight but I also know that we will get out of this situation by being better.

    Remember "Stay home, keep safe and wash your hands"

    See you on the PART 3 “The Rise of the Humanity” (still working on the title don't judge me)

    With the closure of more than 90% of the world as a result of the global spread of COVID-19, people are encouraged to stay at home and to carry out social distancing to avoid the spread of the virus.

    According to the type of work we perform and the possibility of each company, employers are encouraging their staff to work from home for an undetermined period of time.

    But the employers fear the loss of control and accountability from their team. They imagine you on social media or taking the sun in the garden. With the world economy in one of its worst moments they worry that you’ll take their money and give little in return.

    That is why I leave you some tips to being much more productive and making the most of this opportunity.

    Choosing the right place

    Have a designated workspace, avoiding the trafficked areas and if it’s possible find a quiet place with the right light conditions.

    Avoid working from your bed or sofa. Your back will hurt after some time and despite what people think, this limits your productivity.

    Tip: Always keep your workspace clean. Resist the idea of piling up coffee cups, food plates, empty water bottles, or anything else that doesn't have a purpose in your work.

    Be accessible

    One of the biggest fears for employers is losing contact with their team and working from home shouldn’t make you less accessible. It’s therefore of utmost importance to be always reachable by phone and Internet.

    Always keep your phone close in case someone needs to communicate with you by phone, keeping your home office charges separate from your home's expenses.

    Make a task list

    If you are like me, you will probably end receiving endless emails, asking you to do various things, many times jumping from one activity to another. That is why it is extremely important to prepare a list of tasks you need to complete every day and cross items off the list as you go.

    Make sure you have everything you need close to your work area before starting your day. Avoiding having to get up every moment for a document or object that you have forgotten.

    Maintain Regular Hours

    One of the benefits of remote work is the schedule flexibility. People think that by working from home they work less and have more free time. But on the contrary, many times you will be end working more than you regular office time.

    Depending on what do you do, sometimes you will be requested to extend your labor hours.

    In my case, sometimes I must adapt not only to the American time but also to the Chinese, Indian and European time zones. It’s really important to set a schedule, and stick to it. Having a clear guideline for when to work and when to stop will helps you to maintain a work-life balance.

    Set Rules

    Of course there will be many temptations and distractions. Your kid wanting to show you his latest drawing, your wife asking you to open a jar for her, your neighbor wanting to discuss the latest news or even the book that you have in front of you and that you left halfway.

    Home Offices are a relatively new concept for many people who still do not understand that that working at home is still working.

    So it is essential to set rules with other people who share your space for when you work or you will end with your time divided between getting things done and trying to fend off interruptions.

    Dress for success

    Working from home is gives you the freedom of working in the most comfortable clothes you have. But remember that the most productive people don’t wake up and instantly start working while still in pajamas. They get ready for the day the same way they would if they were heading into the office.

    Force yourself to get up and get ready for a regular workday; feeling more professional and ready to tackle your work in the most productive way possible.

    Stay healthy

    One of the greatest temptations while we work at home and due to its accessibility is to eat as much as we like from the kitchen. Try to keep your diet balanced and eat healthy. Remember to drink plenty of water and get up from your chair from time to time to be able to stretch and relax a little. Taking a short walk around your house will allow you to maintain good blood circulation.


    home-office-how-to-be-productive

    Photo courtesy of www.aarp.org



    home-office-how-to-be-productive

    Photo courtesy of www.m.economictimes.com



    home-office-how-to-be-productive

    Photo courtesy of www.forbes.com



    home-office-how-to-be-productive

    Photo courtesy of www.fayerwayer.com


    Friday, 15 May 2020 21:30

    ONYX 19 RIP software

    Onyx Graphics is focused on providing complete end-to-end digital RIP and print workflow software solutions for Print Service Providers (PSPs) around the globe which includes the ability to implement automated workflows from design file to printed product on any print application including soft-signage and textile. Their latest version release is ONYX 19 and is available for its entire product portfolio or RIP and print workflow solutions.

    Some of the features of the ONYX 19 that we can highlights are:

    The Spark Engine

    Performance platform built to maximize speed, performance and reliability; that includes:

    • Advanced compression algorithms to increase RIP speeds up to 400%.
    • New threading pipeline that maximizes computer hardware to improve printer performance up to 200%.
    • Rendering technology that increases Step and Repeat performance up to 600%

    DeviceLink+

    Color management controls for consistent color output across any device, offering the ability to make profile changes such as ink savings without needing to build new ICC profiles.

    iccMAX

    Whit this option you can achieve precision in color and quality with iccMAX v5 profiling.

    • Achieves greater accuracy in meeting customer brand color needs
    • Enables control of gamut mapping without needing to build new ICC profiles
    • Provides greater control over ink usage to reduce waste
    • Improves output of greyscale images

    Dot Patterns

    New dot pattern technology for all print applications with 3 new dot patterns that provide control and flexibility for the smoothest output.

    Enhanced Stochastic:

    Eliminate empty space in dot placement with improved correlation between ink channels

    Line Stochastic:

    Add screen angles to the black channel on top of our enhanced stochastic pattern for smoother linear output

    Screen stochastic:

    Add additional smoothness across black, cyan and magenta channels with screen angles on top of our enhanced stochastic pattern for all other ink channels


    AT-Inks-UV-UV-LED-Inkjet-Ink

    Dot patterns. Photo courtesy www.onyxgfx.com



    ONYX-19-RIP-software


    ONYX-19-RIP-software

    ONYX 19 RIP software features.


    Wednesday, 13 May 2020 22:03

    A.T. Inks UV & UV-LED Inkjet Ink

    Thanks to the constant development of new printing methods, as well as techniques that can be adapted to different materials, inkjet printing has become more popular on the last century.

    One of the most popular techniques in the digital printing industry is the use of UV curable inks, which can be used to print onto a wide variety of porous and non-porous substrates (even metal or glass). This type of ink is cured almost instantly thanks to a ultra-violet lights that turns the ink immediately from liquid to a solid.

    The development of LED curing technology for UV inks has opened new opportunities for printing onto different materials and substrates; that previously could not have been used as a result of the extreme heat produced with mercury lamps.

    A.T. Inks (Rex-Tone Industries Limited) has a long history in the world of colors. Mr. Harish Goswamy founded this company in 1994 and since then they have added a wide variety of products to provide solutions to the different printing techniques.

    Here are some of the UV and UV-LED inkjet inks that they have nowadays:

    Credence F107 Ink – UV/LED

    Ink is designed to work on multiple printheads and can be used on hybrid and roll-to-roll machines.

    Ultra Elite EFF170 Ink – UV/LED

    Works with both mercury UV lamp and LED Lamps 395 nm wavelength (8W or more). This ink is designed for flexible surfaces.

    Ultra Elite EFF250 Ink – UV/LED

    Works with both mercury UV lamp and LED Lamps 395 nm wavelength (8W or more). It is designed to work on multiple printheads and can be used on hybrid and roll-to-roll machines.

    Ultra Elite EFH100 Ink – UV/LED

    Works with both mercury UV lamp and LED Lamps 395 nm wavelength (8W or more). This ink is designed to work on hard/rigid surfaces with or without white ink and gives good to excellent adhesion on most rigid substrates (with/without primers)

    Ultra Elite F027 Ink – UV/LED

    Works with both mercury UV lamp and LED Lamps 395 nm wavelength (8W or more). This ink is designed for flexible surfaces.

    Ultra Elite GF057 Ink – UV/LED

    Ink specifically designed to work on Ricoh GH2220 printheads. Work best with LED lamps at 395 nm wavelength (8W or more) and also with UV mercury lamps. This ink is designed for flexible surfaces.

    Ultra Elite H027 Ink – UV/LED

    Work with both mercury UV lamp and LED Lamps 395 nm wavelength (8W or more). This ink is designed to work on hard/rigid surfaces with or without white ink and has good to excellent adhesion on most rigid substrates (with/without primers).

    Ultra Elite XH067 Ink – UV/LED

    Ink specifically designed to work on Xaar 1201 printheads. Work best with LED lamps at 395 nm wavelength (8W or more) and also with UV mercury lamps.

    Ultra Elite H017 Ink – LED

    LED lamp curable ink with LED at 395 nm wavelength (8W or more), designed to work on hard/rigid surfaces with or without white ink.

    Ultra Elite F017 Ink – LED

    LED lamp curable ink with LED at 395 nm wavelength (8W or more). This ink is designed for flexible surfaces.


    AT-Inks-UV-UV-LED-Inkjet-Ink

    Pablo M. Lee (DPI INSIGHTS/FLAAR-REPORTS), Checking a printed sample made with UV ink from AT INKS.



    AT-Inks-UV-UV-LED-Inkjet-Ink


    AT-Inks-UV-UV-LED-Inkjet-Ink


    AT-Inks-UV-UV-LED-Inkjet-Ink

    AT INKS UV-LED ink printed sample on glass.



    AT-Inks-UV-UV-LED-Inkjet-Ink

    Maria Renée Ayau and Pablo M. Lee (DPI INSIGHTS/FLAAR-REPORTS),
    reviewing some UV printed samples at A.T. Inks boot. APPPEXPO 2019 Shanghai.


    Packaging design is creating not only the graphics but also the physical container of the product that a consumer acquires. That includes choices in material, shape as well as graphics, colors and fonts that are used on wrapping any kind of container.

    “According to Harvard Business School professor Clayton Christensen, each year more than 30,000 new consumer products are launched and 80% of them fail.”

    Did you know that approximately 70% of all purchasing decisions are made until the customer is inside the store?

    The packaging is usually the first thing people see and considering that the average first impression is made within seconds it’s essential to capture the attention of the consumer and to stand out from a shelf already saturated with similar products.

    Packaging design is crucial not only for the product itself but also to the entire company because it becomes a memorable representation of a brand.

    Depending on the product it will be also a sensual involvement. Engaging the customer through sight, touch, smell and taste experience. All of these details will give an idea of what the product is for, how it should be used or who should use it; hence giving an added value to our brand. And remember customers would be eager to pay extra for an additional value like innovative packaging.

    Here you can see some of the creative packaging that we have come across.


    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design


    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Wine packaging for Fish Club (seafood restaurant) by Backbone Branding. Photo courtesy www.thedieline.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Extra virgin olive oil bottle by Cabello x Mure. Photo courtesy www.thedieline.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Canned fish pack by Anthem. Photo courtesy www.packagingoftheworld.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design


    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Paper Water Bottle is a pulp packaging made from plant-based fibers. Photo courtesy www.designawards.core.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design


    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design


    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Can with tree hollow design with a transparent window through which the customers can the product by Backbone Branding. Photo courtesy www.thedieline.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Pasta package with serving measurement by Tamura Design Studio. Photo courtesy www.themost10com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Pasta package with serving measurement by Tamura Design Studio. Photo courtesy www.thedieline.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Pasta package with hair style. Photo courtesy www.boredpanda-com


    #LeaveItToTheExperts

    In an era where people think that they can learn everything with internet tutorials it is not uncommon to find some disasters that we can only ask ourself "what were they thinking?!?!!?”

    Keep in mind, once a packaging error is out it is very difficult to take it back; and we are not just talking about the price to recall the product. In an era where everyone has access to the Internet a pictures of your mistake would be circulating around the world in a matter of seconds. Leaving your potential customers wondering about your company’s professionalism.


    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Photo courtesy www.boredpanda.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    Photo courtesy www.dailydesignnews.com



    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design


    Innovative Applications of Product Packaging Design

    If only the fruit came with something that naturally protected it. Photo courtesy www.wentywowords.com


    Whether we love it or hate it advertising has always been and will be part of our daily lives, which could have a significant impact and can be relate to our collective action.

    Billboards form an integral part of advertising and could do more than just advertise. Thanks to the current trend that increasingly focuses on worrying about ecology and trying to reduce our footprint, it was only a matter of time that green technologies would make their spirited foray into this popular field of advertising.

    As a graphic designer I have always admired those advertising campaigns that have taken that extra mile, necessary to merge advertising with the protection of the ecosystem without losing its focus and purpose.

    UTEC - Air Purifier Billboard


    panel-aire-billboard-pollution-clean_utec-edu-pe

    Photo courtesy of www.utec.edu.pe


    The creators of the billboard that turned air into drinkable water, (the University of Engineering and Technology of Peru) now they have created a billboard that sucks pollution from the sky and returns purified air; claiming that the billboard can purify almost 100,000 cubic meters of urban air per day (equivalent to the work of 1,200 mature trees).

    Toyota - Air Cleaning Eco Board


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.utec.edu.pe


    A few years ago Toyota also created a billboard that could clean the emissions of several vehicles each month.

    Coca-Cola - Absorbs Air Pollution


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.interest.cl


    Coca-Cola did not want to fall behind and together with the WWF designed a billboard made out of sustainable, recyclable materials, covered with 3,600 pots of the air pollutant-absorbing Fukien tea plant.

    Mc Donald’s - Bee Hotel


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.popucity.net



    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.theanimalclub.net


    Everyone knows that as a result of the growth of cities, bees have lost much of their habitat, alarmingly reducing their number to the point of extinction in some populated areas. This is why Mc Donald´s Sweden, knowing the importance of them, has conditioned many of its bilboards to provide accommodation, creating hotels for them.

    Koleston Naturals - Change


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.adsoftheworld.com


    This company, dedicated to the manufacture of hair dyes, invites us to admire the beauty of nature taking advantage of its environment and without visual pollution.

    Corona - Wave of Waste


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.campaignlive.co.uk


    Corona, together with artist Andy Billett, created a billboard / sculpture which aims to raise awareness that we must properly recycle our waste since most of it does not reach garbage dumps and end up in the oceans.

    Coca-Cola - Open, Taste, Recycle


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.adeeveen.com


    It is not always necessary to alter the structure of a billboard or that it has a mechanical or chemical operation so that advertising is beneficial to the environment. Such is the case of this Coca-Cola campaign that slightly modified its logo to encourage consumers to recycle.

    Advertising that Invite


    Eco-Friendly-Campaigns-Giving-that-Extra-Mile-for-the-Green

    Photo courtesy of www.designyoutrust.com


    Many times it takes just a little imagination and a minimum effort to invite us to put the garbage in its place.

     

    Friday, 10 April 2020 20:47

    Be.tex by bergertextiles

    Few years ago bergertextile introduced to the digital market one of the first sustainable textiles for large format digital printing. Now few months from the beginning of 2020 and true to the motto: “be.responsible”, bergertextile presents its expanded product range with sustainable textiles for brilliant printing applications.

    In addition to the be.tex Samba FR bergertextiles introduces two more green products, made from 100% recycled yarn (rePET – PET bottle recycling), called be.tex Green Revolution FR and be.tex Green Valuetex FR, which are specially designed for display frame systems.

    be.tex Samba FR

    Facts: 160 / 260 / 320 cm width, 195 g/m², 1 % stretch
    Applications: Lightboxes

    be.tex Green Revolution FR

    Facts: 160 / 260 / 320 cm width, 180 g/m², 1 - 3 % stretch
    Applications: Banner, Pop-Up Displays, Table Cloth

    be.tex Green Valuetex FR

    Facts: 320 cm width, 150 g/m², 1-4 % stretch
    Applications: Banner, Pop-up Displays, Table Cloth

    How does used PET bottles become a textile?

    The yarn for this textile is obtained from used PET bottles in a GRS-certified process. Approximately 12 used 1.5 liters PET bottles yield one square meter of textile. Used PET-bottles are cleaned in a water-saving manner, shredded into small flakes and processed into granulate. This is melted, converted into fibers, spun into yarn and finally processed into new bergertextiles. 100 % recycled.


    Be-tex-by-bergertextiles

    Photo courtesy www.bergertextiles.com



    Be-tex-by-bergertextiles

    Photo courtesy www.bergertextiles.com



    Be-tex-by-bergertextiles

    Photo courtesy www.bergertextiles.com


    Monday, 06 April 2020 21:30

    VOCs and Fumes The Silent Killers

    In the digital printing industry, it´s of general knowledge that the printshops that have solvent ink printers handle fumes and odors that can cause health concerns and discomfort to their employees and customers. So it's no surprise that to solve this situation there are different types of solvent-based inks (Mild-Solvent, Eco-Solvent, Lite-Solvent, etc.) in the market that claim to be ecological and low odor.

    The evaporation of the solvent components, responsible for transporting the ink and subsequently printing it on the material, are the primary source of production of these VOCs.

    Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids as a result of a chemical transformation such as heating, etc. Inhalation of these fumes is dangerous because the hazardous components in them. The evaporated solvent product has been deemed hazardous to people when exposed to high-concentration levels. Fumes from chemicals or toxic substances can irritate your airways, skin and eyes, and inhaling a substance can make your nose and throat sore or swollen.

    As a personal anecdote: many years ago I used to work in a printshop as a technician / operator of a Vutek Ultra VU printer (long before this brand was purchased by efi). This printer was installed in a refurbished 8mts x 10mts room that used to serve as a warehouse.

    Constructed as a warehouse, this room did not have adequate ventilation to work with solvent-based digital printing machinery. One day, I was sitting working on an order that consisted of thousands of banners when suddenly I fell asleep, due to the filling of the air with solvent fumes. It is worth mentioning that after this event the company installed a VOCs extraction system.

    But not only during the printing process we can find these VOCs, also during the finishing process we can find find this extremely harmful fumes for the human health.

    It is increasingly common to see in trade shows, all around the world, a wide variety of CNC machinery presuming its ability to cut on a variety of materials (some more rigid than the others). The presence of several CNC cutters working in an enclosed space at the same time makes the environment so heavy that it is difficult to be near them for more than ten minutes

    When a machine is so powerful that can cut thick material like a hot knife through butter, the fumes produced during this process are hazardous gases (include acutely toxic, corrosive, flammable and oxidizing gases) that are sufficiently toxic for the human being.

    The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) in its norm 704 (Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response) define the toxicity of materials, that in short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury are given a Health Hazard rating of 3 and materials that in very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury are given a Health Hazard rating of 4.

    The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) in its norm 704 (Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response) define the toxicity of materials, that in short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury are given a Health Hazard rating of 3 and materials that in very short exposure could cause death or major residual injury are given a Health Hazard rating of 4.

    VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects.

    Short-term effects

    • Headache
    • Nose, throat, eye irritation
    • Coughing, painful breathing
    • Pneumonia, bronchitis
    • Skin irritation
    • Dizziness
    • Sleepiness
    • Visual disorders
    • Memory problems

    Long-term effects

    • Affects the central nervous system (headache, anxiety)
    • Cardiovascular diseases
    • Respiratory diseases (asthma, cancer)
    • Impacts on liver, spleen, blood
    • Impact on the reproductive system
    • Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
    • Nausea
    • Fatigue
    • Loss of coordination
    • Dizziness
    • Damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system
    • Cancer

    Currently there are many companies working on the improvement of this type of inks to reduce the amount of VOCs without compromising the quality of it. Also there are several companies dedicated to the manufacture of air purifiers that are responsible for eliminating pollutant gases leaving a safer environment for workers who spend most of their time next to this equipment.

    There are other printing alternatives, a little healthier for the technician who operates the equipment as well as for the environment, although not very friendly to the pocket of the company owner.

    The most important point is the awareness to the owner of the printshop in the creation of a healthy and safe environment, avoiding subsequent complications to their workers in the short and long term. Of course, you must invest but do not forget that you should not play with people's health.


    Hongniu_fiber_laser_CNC_metal_sample

    When a machine is so powerful that can cut thick material like a hot knife through butter, the fumes produced during this process are hazardous gases



    Solvent-fumes-printed-sample


    Solvent-fumes-printed-sample

    The evaporation of the solvent components, responsible for transporting the ink and subsequently printing it on the material



    Solvent-banner-printed_sample


    Solvent-banner-printed_sample


    Solvent-banner-printed_sample


    Solvent-banner-printed_sample


    Solvent-banner-printed_sample

    At a time when China struggles to control the virus that affects its country, and it has spread to 28 more countries. We can see that the coronavirus has the potential to be as damaging to the human health as for the global economy. Threatening the supply chains, increasing the demand for the material in stock and increasing the prices.

    China is not new in dealing with the emergence of viruses that threaten the health and economy of its country, as well as that of the rest of the world

    In 2002, SARS virus emerged in the province of Canton, China. During this time, the world briefly felt the consequences of China's isolation. Of course back then the country’s factories were mostly dedicated to the production of low-cost goods for customers around the world.

    Though China’s factories still manufacture products like clothing and plastic toys, they have long achieved dominance in more advanced and lucrative pursuits like smartphones, computers and auto parts.

    The country has evolved into an essential part of the global supply chain, producing components needed by factories all around the world.

    Global brands that count on the Chinese market for the supply chain as well as for a sizeable chunk of sales are braced for a significant hit.

    Let's do a quick test, look around and pick up 5 objects. I can bet that two of the 5 objects will say made in China

    A known idiom states that, "When America Sneezes, the World Catches the Cold". But in these days when the rest of the world depends in one way or another on products and customers in China, I think it would be more valid to say, “When China Gets the Virus, Every Body Feels the Symptoms”.

    Honda has three plants in Wuhan, the city where the first case of the virus occurred.

    Airbus stopped its production line in Tianjin as travel restrictions imposed by Beijing.

    Hyundai has halted production lines because of disruption to the supply chain of parts flow between South Korea and China.

    Apple iPhone parts, including camera components are made in Wuhan.

    IMAX postponed the release of five films it had intended to showcase in China during the “Chinese New Year”.

    Just a few weeks after the outbreak of the virus, daily Chinese oil demand is already down 20 percent because of dwindling air travel, road transportation and factory closure. Reducing demand for crude oil, which has stumbled 16% in price since China identified the Coronavirus.

    By default, China has a strong presence in the digital printing industry. From additives for manufacturing digital ink, mercury arc lamps, LED lamps to the seemingly insignificant ink containers or e-chains that protect the cables that control the printhead carriage.

    If we keep in mind that 80% of the printheads manufacturing companies come from Asia, of which several use some component of Chinese factories, it is expected that at some point there will be shortage for the digital printing industry.

    The longer those Chinese factories remain shut down, the greater the risk of shortages of key components. Many companies assumed they get parts from a diverse range of suppliers, protecting them from shortages, only to realize that a single plant in China produced the components.

    The situation works in both ways: customers cannot buy what they need from Chinese factories and China can´t import machinery, components and raw material from other countries (chips from Taiwan and South Korea, copper from Chile and Canada, factory equipment from Germany and Italy).

    With more than 56 confirmed cases in Europe (Australia, Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Spain, Sweden, Finland and Belgium) the imminent arrival of the Coronavirus to the old continent has not been delayed; even with the closing of borders with Asia.

    To see the magnitude of this situation not only the factories are being reached by the Coronavirus and the closure of China. Also the trade shows of diverse products that are carried out throughout the world have been affected.

    The annual Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona, has been impacted by the Coronavirus outbreak, with companies beginning to pull out.

    LG Electronics issued a statement saying that the company will not participate in this year's edition of MWC Barcelona to reduce the risk of exposing of LG employees to international travel. While Huawei, the Chinese tech company, said it was monitoring the situation to determine their precautions.

    Only a month and a half into 2020, many trade shows in Asia have been potponed to try to contain the rapid spread of the virus. People in the digital industry who are waiting for the arrival of the next trade shows in Europe (one of which takes place every 4 years) could also see their intentions fade if they were also postponed for reasons of health safety.

    In a probable scenario in which the WHO declares a global pandemic alert. What would happen with the exhibitions planned for the coming months, where the most renowned brands have waited patiently to showcase their products with the newest technological advances.

    This scenario would mean that the year 2020 would be one in which, for the first time the greatest exhibitions of the digital printing industry around the world would be postponed or even canceled. Leaving the launch of many new products on hold or possibly opening the doors for a boost of promotion through digital media.

    If any of these become real, in the following exhibitions around the world we will see less presence of Asian companies.

    APPPEXPO 2019 general view 7420
    Cooley Group enviroFLEX shipment 7061

    FESPA entrance first day 7605

    Filtering area Trendvision 5678

    ITMA 2019 crowds in front FLAAR REPORTS Nicholas Hellmuth 9055

    Mixing filtering area Trendvision 5903

     

    Page 3 of 3

    Recent Posts

    Keep up with the latest trends about de digital printing industry and learn more about different technologies, equipment, media & substrates, inks, etc.

    Search