03.07.22
On display will be the newest and best products from hundreds of label and packaging industry suppliers. Over the next several pages we present a selection of equipment and consumables that will be exhibited at the show.
Cartes
Booth 5D29
Digital Embellishment
Cartes will present its newest technology, the Jet D-Screen unit for digital embellishment, at Labelexpo Europe. The technology has been designed to simplify creating multi-layer effects, such as spot coating, complex tactile raise volumes and braille printing, as well as very detailed foil and metallic doming transferring. Available for the Gemini and GT360 Series, the technology also allows converters to personalize and beautify labels in just one step, with no tooling costs, immediate start-up and no material waste. In addition, Cartes’ popular Laser converting system, available in single or double head versions, will be on display. The Laser converting system is powered with 350W semi-sealed sourcing technology that provides an unlimited lifetime with a constant power and cutting quality, suitable for paper and film, as well as for linerless facestock processing. It also comes with all proper gadgets to automate these processes like automatic barcode reading, turret rewinding and the auto-slitting systems, all of which are designed to complete a perfect match with a roll-to-roll digital press concept.
www.cartes.it
Celab
Liner Recycling
Matrix and liner recycling challenges will be addressed by the global consortium, CELAB, at Labelexpo Europe. The global CELAB consortium is dedicated to increasing liner and matrix recycling rates to bring the self-adhesive labeling industry into line with circular economy programs promoted by governments and regulators across the world. In practice this means the recycled material is capable of being reused in the manufacture of new release liners or items of a similarly high value. CELAB is organized into regional branches, with the European division hosted by FINAT. Current CELAB initiatives include a global market research study into material volumes, recycling rates and capabilities conducted by AWA, and a technical review of release liner recycling technologies. Already, two white papers have been released on the recyclability of paper and PET release liners, and further initiatives are in progress or planned such as a study into the valorization of matrix waste and a collaboration with Petcore to establish a PET liner recyclers network across Europe. The main challenge to be examined at Labelexpo Europe is how to make recycling economically viable in the face of both technical complexity and high transportation costs arising from the fragmented distribution of liner and matrix materials.
www.celabglobal.org
Domino
Booth 9A60
Digital Printing
Domino will be demonstrating its Generation 6 technology products at Labelexpo Europe. Among the products that will be on display are the Domino N610i 7-color inkjet digital label press, complete with the newly released Esko Version 3 Digital Front End. Plus, the Domino K600i monochrome dual bar, high speed, inline, variable data printer with Lake Image Discovery Multiscan Verification System will also be highlighted. In addition, company experts will be on-hand to discuss the benefits of the Domino N610i Integration Module. With the Domino N610i press, customers will benefit from both enhanced color reproduction and lower ink consumption. For example, for a CMYK process color input image, which includes a lot of orange, customers can now utilize the orange spot color ink as a substitute for the cyan, yellow and magenta process colors. Meanwhile, the Domino K600i printer has demonstrated the ability to print over one million different 2D, barcodes and alpha-numeric codes per hour for inline printing on both existing label press and finishing lines. Domino has also launched a new food-packaging compliant LED ink offering to go along with the K600i.
www.domino-printing.com
GEW
Booth 6C18
UV LED Curing
GEW has launched AeroLED, a new concept of a fully air-cooled, high-powered UV LED system for all applications up to 23" wide, which eliminates many of the operational problems in existing air-cooled systems on the market, the company says. The system features a new air-cooling process with filtered air distributed from a single centralized fan. It is located away from the press and exits through the UV lamp heads for quiet operation. GEW says the remote positioning of the fan avoids common problems caused by ink mist and dust ingress, while large air filters reduce the filter replacement cycle. There is no need for integrated fans or electronics in the individual lamp heads, which eliminates the high-pitched noise and contamination issues that these bring. AeroLED features the same LED chassis and core components as GEW’s LeoLED lamp head. The new lamp uses GEW’s standard cassette design for easy maintenance, with watertight seals to protect the LED modules from ingress and make cleaning easy and safe. The efficient optical design enables the lowest energy usage of all GEW products. According to GEW, it delivers energy savings of typically 50-70% compared to a conventional UV arc system. In addition to offering reduced operating costs, printers upgrading to LED can free up greater levels of capacity, which can then be used to install new machinery and increase production capability. Two AeroLEDs have a lower electrical supply requirement than one conventional arc UV system, GEW adds.
www.gewuv.com
Kernow Coatings
Booth 4A34
Synthetic Labelstock
Kernow Coatings will present its textured, digitally printable, synthetic self-adhesive labelstock at the event. The labelstocks is printable by all established dry toner laser and water-based inkjet technologies, as well as traditional screen and flexo. This new textured labelstock allows converters and end users to produce textured labels without the need for lamination films or varnishes, and it is suitable for beverage cans and bottles, as well as healthcare products. This substrate gives a grippy feel, moisture resistance and a high-definition print finish. Approved for use on the OKI Pro dry toner series and suitable for use with Epson water-based inkjet roll-fed printers, these products and solutions offer converters and end users a new product for creative on-demand labels.
www.kernowcoatings.com
Mark Andy
Booth 4C45
Printing Presses
Mark Andy’s booth will highlight the company’s digital and flexo hybrid technology that provides label converters with a wide variety of products for fast and efficient production, from prepress workflows to management systems, and from consumables and supplies to converting and finishing options. On working demonstration in Brussels will be two Mark Andy digital hybrid presses: Digital Series HD and the manufacturer’s latest launch, Digital Series iQ, powered by Domino, both of which will be available for visitors to inspect close-up during the entire event. While Digital Series HD and Digital Series iQ are suited for different needs, both feature seamless integration with a complete set of end-to-end functionalities to help businesses grow. Both are inkjet digital hybrid presses capable of printing with extended color gamut, 6-color process, and opaque white at true production speeds. In addition, both machines are designed with fast-change flexo features for topcoating, lamination, foil stamping, and specialty color printing and product decoration. Finishing attributes include Mark Andy’s high-speed semi-rotary diecutting.
www.markandy.com
Martin Automatic
Booth 7A35
Butt Splicer
Martin Automatic, a supplier of non-stop unwind, rewind, and tension control equipment to the narrow web flexo and digital printing markets, will have experts on-hand to answer attendee questions about non-stop production and its benefits for the bottom line and carbon footprint. On display at booth 7A35 will be Martin Automatic’s MBS automated butt splicer and LRD rewinder. Technology and space saving packages are available for both models to accommodate customers’ most extreme speed and web tension requirements while minimizing tight floor space. Experts will also explain the patent behind the popular rotary-sheer splice unit and lift and load mechanism on the MBS butt splicer and why automatic roll unloading from the LRD rewind is essential for productivity and operator convenience.
www.martinautomatic.com
Maxcess international
Booth 4B45
Dies & Tooling
Maxcess, a global supplier of products and services for web handling applications, will be exhibiting at Labelexpo Europe in April. Maxcess will be highlighting its brand-new flexible die portfolio and supporting tooling solutions from RotoMetrics. These solutions give customers the right die for the job, every time, the company says. On display from Fife is a preview of its next-generation web guide, giving customers Industry 4.0 connectivity and smart data to automate the converting process, making sure they run smarter. Componex brings its award-winning RotoRepel anti-stick coating to its line of Idler Rolls to help converters run faster with less adhesive and ink buildup on their rolls. Meanwhile, the new Advantage series knife holder from Tidland, a narrow-web slitting solution offering better Tidland quality, slits at a competitive price. Also, visitors can learn about Maxcess’ 100% vision inspection solutions and other new products. “With labor in high demand and converters running at capacity 24/7, our new technologies on display will help customers automate their process to run more product and better product faster,” said Keith Laakko, VP of global marketing.
www.maxcessintl.com
MPS
Booth 7A45
Flexo Press
MPS will emphasize its “Connect to Grow” brand and introduce the EF next generation press in the Automation Arena at Labelexpo Europe. The event will also mark the 25th anniversary for MPS. With its MPSConnect platform that combines sensor technology with the internet (IoT), real-time data collection is possible from hundreds of events per second. This unbiased information helps to identify bottlenecks, errors and inefficiencies to optimize press performance and decrease waste. Meanwhile, the seventh generation EF flexo press reflects continuous improvements. The EF next generation press is now equipped with the slide-out ink drawer as standard, E-Sleeves, improved job memory functionality, and two automation levels to ensure high-quality printing with fast changeover times between jobs. New to the next generation EF press is the option of a wider 580mm web width. Joining MPS in the Automation Arena are Xeikon, CERM, Esko, and Grafotronic, with presentations taking place three times a day. Live demonstrations on the EF next generation press will also be held outside of the Automation Arena demonstration schedule.
www.mps-printing.com
Nanovis
Booth 5C52
HP Indigo Cleaning Accessories
Nanovis will be promoting HP Indigo cleaning accessories, such as Bella DC-1300 cleaning device and Dixi 270, at Labelexpo Europe. The maintenance and cleaning of the relevant parts have an important influence on the print quality of the HP Indigo press. With its integrated recycling system, the device uses clean imaging oil to clean the press. The Bella DC-1300 cleaning device can be operated manually and is claimed to provide simple and efficient cleaning, minimizing downtimes. In addition to HP Indigo technology, Nanovis will now also offer cleaning options in inkjet technology. Clogged inkjet printheads are a major cost factor in digital printing, as they often have to be replaced at great expense, the company says.
www.nanovis.ch
Sei Laser
Booth 9C57
Diecutting
Sei Laser will display the company’s flagship Labelmaster in both 350mm narrow-web and 600mm medium-web versions. Labelmaster is a modular system that can be configured for both roll-to-roll and roll-to-sheet digital diecutting, running at speeds up to 100 m/m. “We can say that Labelmaster has become a classic in digital diecutting at Labelexpo, with hundreds of customers using our technology every day,” says Ettore Colico, converting director at Sei Laser. “This makes us particularly proud. Our digital cutting and finishing system is now mature and perfectly tailored to the needs of visitors.”
www.seilaser.com
Steinbeis Papier
Booth 8A45
Paper
Steinbeis is launching Label Wet at the event. The product is a new wet and alkali resistant label paper and marks a milestone for both the company and for customers who are looking to set an example for more sustainability with their products. Label Wet is suitable for all common labels on beverage bottles and glass jars using wet gluing, hot-melt gluing and self-adhesive applications. Wet and alkali resistant label paper can be printed in offset and flexographic printing processes with excellent diecutting properties. The label paper is made from 100%-recycled materials and – as with all recycled paper from Steinbeis Papier – has been awarded the Blue Angel and the EU Ecolabel. The company is taking a bold step and establishing a new product segment in its portfolio of recycled paper with this launch.
www.stp.de
Zecher
Booth 5E33
Mobile App
Zecher, a manufacturer of anilox rollers and printing cylinders, has launched Zecher App, a mobile application to enable its customers to compactly manage their Zecher products. The app is designed for customers to compactly manage their Zecher anilox roller park. Customers are also able to directly send requests for new anilox rollers, refurbishments or other Zecher products through the app. A QR code scanner enables users to easily address claims. Another focus will also be the Stepped Hex engraving technology, with numerous technical benefits due to the cell geometry. Zecher will share the booth with its sales partner, Ulmex. The displayed product portfolio includes Zecher anilox rollers, printing cylinders, anilox cleaners and services, as well as the Evolux laser cleaning machines from Ulmex. The Evolux laser cleaning machines are convincing with their improved cleaning results and are a suitable fit for optimized production processes by reducing the factors of time and costs in anilox roller reconditioning.
www.zecher.com
By Andy Thomas-Emans
Labelexpo Europe 2022 will see Mark Andy’s European launch of its Digital Series iQ hybrid press powered by Domino. The iQ press combines units from a Mark Andy 13" Evolution series press with a Domino N601i UV inkjet engine, and is targeted in particular at replacing legacy entry-level flexo presses for smaller and mid-sized label converting operations.
Mark Andy will also show its flagship Digital Series HD (DSHD) press, based around the proven Performance Series P7 full servo platform with fully integrated UV inkjet engine. The DSHD press prints with a resolution claimed to match high-definition flexo at speeds up to 240 fpm.
Both the Mark Andy DSHD and Digital Series iQ are digital inkjet hybrid presses capable of printing with extended color gamut, 6-color process, and opaque white. Both machines are designed with fast-change flexographic features for top coating, lamination, foil stamping, and specialty color printing and product decoration, along with Mark Andy’s high-speed semi-rotary diecutting system.
Comments Tom Cavalco, managing director, Mark Andy Europe, “Since its launch last year in the Americas, Digital Series iQ has been a fast seller, easily integrated by label converters. We are excited to showcase the machine here for the first time in Europe, on our booth at Labelexpo, and looking forward to seeing friends old and new at this year’s event.”
Durst will be introducing the 20" Tau 510 RSCi, printing at speeds up to 100 m/m (80 m/min at full resolution). The press will be configured with flexo decks both before and after the 1200 dpi print engine. Also on show will be the Tau 330 RSC. Workflow automation is another key trend in digital press technology, and Durst will be showcasing its latest software, including prepress process automation and new features like Save-Ink mode. Working with industry OEM partners, Durst has also developed hybrid digital-flexographic print systems alongside its own digital print ecosystem, and the company will promote the advantages and disadvantages of hybrid.
Konica Minolta will exhibit its full range of equipment for the label market. This will include an AccurioLabel230 digital press inline with a DC330MINI converting unit with a new compact buffer and flexo unit. The company is also demonstrating the MGI JETvarnish 3D Web digital embellishment system, designed for inline 2D and 3D spot UV coating, embossed hot-foiling, diecutting and slitting, and the Inkjet Module IIJ, including new retrofit options.
For label converters looking to diversify, Konica Minolta will show the PKG-675i printer designed for short-run box and display printing.
The company also promises a major new technology at the show, so watch this space for more details. Carsten Bamberg, business development manager, Professional Printing Group, Konica Minolta Europe, says the company remains fully committed to the label market seven years after moving across from the commercial print sector.
“Label, packaging and embellishment markets will continue to be as vibrant as ever. The potential to push boundaries, enter new markets and seize opportunities to create unique customer experiences has never been more exciting.” Bamberg says.
Automation and a continued trends toward digitization are other trends identified by Bamberg: “Demands will continue to increase for a complete start-to-finish manufacturing process with more all-in-one solutions, as well as a need for production devices that need fewer and less-skilled operators. One specific growth trend includes enhanced finishing such as embellishment, increased automation, online print purchasing and web shops, plus, of course, the unstoppable analog to digital transition.”
Canon is a relatively recent entry to the narrow-web market and aims to make a major impact at Labelexpo Europe 2022 with two LabelStream 4000 UV inkjet presses on its stand – one in a hybrid configuration and one digital-only. The press prints at 75 m/m on a 410mm print width using Xaar 2001 inkjet heads. The hybrid format LabelStream 4000 incorporates a 6-color print engine (WCMYKO) with one flexo station before and one after the digital unit, along with a cold foil unit, semi rotary diecutter and slitter, all inline.
The LabelStream 4000 has been awarded Pantone Capable certification, meaning it can cover over 81% of the Pantone range using a 5-color CMYKO ink set and adopting a Delta E 2000 < 1.5. Applying a Delta E of 2 enables coverage of 96% of the Pantone book. The press has also been certified to the Process Standard Digital (PSD) Print Check based on the Fogra 55 7-color reference gamut.
Meanwhile, Epson is launching the latest version of its established SurePress L-4733 water-base inkjet press. The 6-color SurePress L-4733A/AW uses new water-based inks with improved wettability to expand substrate and application versatility and new print modes for higher productivity and print quality. There will be a focus on greater automation, including a new head cleaning system, which reduces maintenance activity and minimizes downtime. The new inks are formulated and manufactured by Epson to ensure compliance with EU and FDA food and packaging regulations, making them suitable for a wide range of labeling applications, including food, beverage, industrial, cosmetic, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Finally, Afinia is looking to widen the options available for digital printing of flexible packaging with the commercial launch of its FP-230 press – seen at Labelexpo Europe 2019 in its prototype form. The FP-230 uses the company’s L901 Plus 1600 dpi Memjet print engine to produce full-color prints on rolls up to 230mm wide with a maximum speed of 18 m/m. Variable data and color matching are handled by the optional Northstar RIP. The water-based inks have been approved for food packaging when combined with inline cold lamination, with the finished roll trimmed using the two rotary knives.
Cartes
Booth 5D29
Digital Embellishment
Cartes will present its newest technology, the Jet D-Screen unit for digital embellishment, at Labelexpo Europe. The technology has been designed to simplify creating multi-layer effects, such as spot coating, complex tactile raise volumes and braille printing, as well as very detailed foil and metallic doming transferring. Available for the Gemini and GT360 Series, the technology also allows converters to personalize and beautify labels in just one step, with no tooling costs, immediate start-up and no material waste. In addition, Cartes’ popular Laser converting system, available in single or double head versions, will be on display. The Laser converting system is powered with 350W semi-sealed sourcing technology that provides an unlimited lifetime with a constant power and cutting quality, suitable for paper and film, as well as for linerless facestock processing. It also comes with all proper gadgets to automate these processes like automatic barcode reading, turret rewinding and the auto-slitting systems, all of which are designed to complete a perfect match with a roll-to-roll digital press concept.
www.cartes.it
Celab
Liner Recycling
Matrix and liner recycling challenges will be addressed by the global consortium, CELAB, at Labelexpo Europe. The global CELAB consortium is dedicated to increasing liner and matrix recycling rates to bring the self-adhesive labeling industry into line with circular economy programs promoted by governments and regulators across the world. In practice this means the recycled material is capable of being reused in the manufacture of new release liners or items of a similarly high value. CELAB is organized into regional branches, with the European division hosted by FINAT. Current CELAB initiatives include a global market research study into material volumes, recycling rates and capabilities conducted by AWA, and a technical review of release liner recycling technologies. Already, two white papers have been released on the recyclability of paper and PET release liners, and further initiatives are in progress or planned such as a study into the valorization of matrix waste and a collaboration with Petcore to establish a PET liner recyclers network across Europe. The main challenge to be examined at Labelexpo Europe is how to make recycling economically viable in the face of both technical complexity and high transportation costs arising from the fragmented distribution of liner and matrix materials.
www.celabglobal.org
Domino
Booth 9A60
Digital Printing
Domino will be demonstrating its Generation 6 technology products at Labelexpo Europe. Among the products that will be on display are the Domino N610i 7-color inkjet digital label press, complete with the newly released Esko Version 3 Digital Front End. Plus, the Domino K600i monochrome dual bar, high speed, inline, variable data printer with Lake Image Discovery Multiscan Verification System will also be highlighted. In addition, company experts will be on-hand to discuss the benefits of the Domino N610i Integration Module. With the Domino N610i press, customers will benefit from both enhanced color reproduction and lower ink consumption. For example, for a CMYK process color input image, which includes a lot of orange, customers can now utilize the orange spot color ink as a substitute for the cyan, yellow and magenta process colors. Meanwhile, the Domino K600i printer has demonstrated the ability to print over one million different 2D, barcodes and alpha-numeric codes per hour for inline printing on both existing label press and finishing lines. Domino has also launched a new food-packaging compliant LED ink offering to go along with the K600i.
www.domino-printing.com
GEW
Booth 6C18
UV LED Curing
GEW has launched AeroLED, a new concept of a fully air-cooled, high-powered UV LED system for all applications up to 23" wide, which eliminates many of the operational problems in existing air-cooled systems on the market, the company says. The system features a new air-cooling process with filtered air distributed from a single centralized fan. It is located away from the press and exits through the UV lamp heads for quiet operation. GEW says the remote positioning of the fan avoids common problems caused by ink mist and dust ingress, while large air filters reduce the filter replacement cycle. There is no need for integrated fans or electronics in the individual lamp heads, which eliminates the high-pitched noise and contamination issues that these bring. AeroLED features the same LED chassis and core components as GEW’s LeoLED lamp head. The new lamp uses GEW’s standard cassette design for easy maintenance, with watertight seals to protect the LED modules from ingress and make cleaning easy and safe. The efficient optical design enables the lowest energy usage of all GEW products. According to GEW, it delivers energy savings of typically 50-70% compared to a conventional UV arc system. In addition to offering reduced operating costs, printers upgrading to LED can free up greater levels of capacity, which can then be used to install new machinery and increase production capability. Two AeroLEDs have a lower electrical supply requirement than one conventional arc UV system, GEW adds.
www.gewuv.com
Kernow Coatings
Booth 4A34
Synthetic Labelstock
Kernow Coatings will present its textured, digitally printable, synthetic self-adhesive labelstock at the event. The labelstocks is printable by all established dry toner laser and water-based inkjet technologies, as well as traditional screen and flexo. This new textured labelstock allows converters and end users to produce textured labels without the need for lamination films or varnishes, and it is suitable for beverage cans and bottles, as well as healthcare products. This substrate gives a grippy feel, moisture resistance and a high-definition print finish. Approved for use on the OKI Pro dry toner series and suitable for use with Epson water-based inkjet roll-fed printers, these products and solutions offer converters and end users a new product for creative on-demand labels.
www.kernowcoatings.com
Mark Andy
Booth 4C45
Printing Presses
Mark Andy’s booth will highlight the company’s digital and flexo hybrid technology that provides label converters with a wide variety of products for fast and efficient production, from prepress workflows to management systems, and from consumables and supplies to converting and finishing options. On working demonstration in Brussels will be two Mark Andy digital hybrid presses: Digital Series HD and the manufacturer’s latest launch, Digital Series iQ, powered by Domino, both of which will be available for visitors to inspect close-up during the entire event. While Digital Series HD and Digital Series iQ are suited for different needs, both feature seamless integration with a complete set of end-to-end functionalities to help businesses grow. Both are inkjet digital hybrid presses capable of printing with extended color gamut, 6-color process, and opaque white at true production speeds. In addition, both machines are designed with fast-change flexo features for topcoating, lamination, foil stamping, and specialty color printing and product decoration. Finishing attributes include Mark Andy’s high-speed semi-rotary diecutting.
www.markandy.com
Martin Automatic
Booth 7A35
Butt Splicer
Martin Automatic, a supplier of non-stop unwind, rewind, and tension control equipment to the narrow web flexo and digital printing markets, will have experts on-hand to answer attendee questions about non-stop production and its benefits for the bottom line and carbon footprint. On display at booth 7A35 will be Martin Automatic’s MBS automated butt splicer and LRD rewinder. Technology and space saving packages are available for both models to accommodate customers’ most extreme speed and web tension requirements while minimizing tight floor space. Experts will also explain the patent behind the popular rotary-sheer splice unit and lift and load mechanism on the MBS butt splicer and why automatic roll unloading from the LRD rewind is essential for productivity and operator convenience.
www.martinautomatic.com
Maxcess international
Booth 4B45
Dies & Tooling
Maxcess, a global supplier of products and services for web handling applications, will be exhibiting at Labelexpo Europe in April. Maxcess will be highlighting its brand-new flexible die portfolio and supporting tooling solutions from RotoMetrics. These solutions give customers the right die for the job, every time, the company says. On display from Fife is a preview of its next-generation web guide, giving customers Industry 4.0 connectivity and smart data to automate the converting process, making sure they run smarter. Componex brings its award-winning RotoRepel anti-stick coating to its line of Idler Rolls to help converters run faster with less adhesive and ink buildup on their rolls. Meanwhile, the new Advantage series knife holder from Tidland, a narrow-web slitting solution offering better Tidland quality, slits at a competitive price. Also, visitors can learn about Maxcess’ 100% vision inspection solutions and other new products. “With labor in high demand and converters running at capacity 24/7, our new technologies on display will help customers automate their process to run more product and better product faster,” said Keith Laakko, VP of global marketing.
www.maxcessintl.com
MPS
Booth 7A45
Flexo Press
MPS will emphasize its “Connect to Grow” brand and introduce the EF next generation press in the Automation Arena at Labelexpo Europe. The event will also mark the 25th anniversary for MPS. With its MPSConnect platform that combines sensor technology with the internet (IoT), real-time data collection is possible from hundreds of events per second. This unbiased information helps to identify bottlenecks, errors and inefficiencies to optimize press performance and decrease waste. Meanwhile, the seventh generation EF flexo press reflects continuous improvements. The EF next generation press is now equipped with the slide-out ink drawer as standard, E-Sleeves, improved job memory functionality, and two automation levels to ensure high-quality printing with fast changeover times between jobs. New to the next generation EF press is the option of a wider 580mm web width. Joining MPS in the Automation Arena are Xeikon, CERM, Esko, and Grafotronic, with presentations taking place three times a day. Live demonstrations on the EF next generation press will also be held outside of the Automation Arena demonstration schedule.
www.mps-printing.com
Nanovis
Booth 5C52
HP Indigo Cleaning Accessories
Nanovis will be promoting HP Indigo cleaning accessories, such as Bella DC-1300 cleaning device and Dixi 270, at Labelexpo Europe. The maintenance and cleaning of the relevant parts have an important influence on the print quality of the HP Indigo press. With its integrated recycling system, the device uses clean imaging oil to clean the press. The Bella DC-1300 cleaning device can be operated manually and is claimed to provide simple and efficient cleaning, minimizing downtimes. In addition to HP Indigo technology, Nanovis will now also offer cleaning options in inkjet technology. Clogged inkjet printheads are a major cost factor in digital printing, as they often have to be replaced at great expense, the company says.
www.nanovis.ch
Sei Laser
Booth 9C57
Diecutting
Sei Laser will display the company’s flagship Labelmaster in both 350mm narrow-web and 600mm medium-web versions. Labelmaster is a modular system that can be configured for both roll-to-roll and roll-to-sheet digital diecutting, running at speeds up to 100 m/m. “We can say that Labelmaster has become a classic in digital diecutting at Labelexpo, with hundreds of customers using our technology every day,” says Ettore Colico, converting director at Sei Laser. “This makes us particularly proud. Our digital cutting and finishing system is now mature and perfectly tailored to the needs of visitors.”
www.seilaser.com
Steinbeis Papier
Booth 8A45
Paper
Steinbeis is launching Label Wet at the event. The product is a new wet and alkali resistant label paper and marks a milestone for both the company and for customers who are looking to set an example for more sustainability with their products. Label Wet is suitable for all common labels on beverage bottles and glass jars using wet gluing, hot-melt gluing and self-adhesive applications. Wet and alkali resistant label paper can be printed in offset and flexographic printing processes with excellent diecutting properties. The label paper is made from 100%-recycled materials and – as with all recycled paper from Steinbeis Papier – has been awarded the Blue Angel and the EU Ecolabel. The company is taking a bold step and establishing a new product segment in its portfolio of recycled paper with this launch.
www.stp.de
Zecher
Booth 5E33
Mobile App
Zecher, a manufacturer of anilox rollers and printing cylinders, has launched Zecher App, a mobile application to enable its customers to compactly manage their Zecher products. The app is designed for customers to compactly manage their Zecher anilox roller park. Customers are also able to directly send requests for new anilox rollers, refurbishments or other Zecher products through the app. A QR code scanner enables users to easily address claims. Another focus will also be the Stepped Hex engraving technology, with numerous technical benefits due to the cell geometry. Zecher will share the booth with its sales partner, Ulmex. The displayed product portfolio includes Zecher anilox rollers, printing cylinders, anilox cleaners and services, as well as the Evolux laser cleaning machines from Ulmex. The Evolux laser cleaning machines are convincing with their improved cleaning results and are a suitable fit for optimized production processes by reducing the factors of time and costs in anilox roller reconditioning.
www.zecher.com
By Andy Thomas-Emans
Labelexpo Europe 2022 will see Mark Andy’s European launch of its Digital Series iQ hybrid press powered by Domino. The iQ press combines units from a Mark Andy 13" Evolution series press with a Domino N601i UV inkjet engine, and is targeted in particular at replacing legacy entry-level flexo presses for smaller and mid-sized label converting operations.
Mark Andy will also show its flagship Digital Series HD (DSHD) press, based around the proven Performance Series P7 full servo platform with fully integrated UV inkjet engine. The DSHD press prints with a resolution claimed to match high-definition flexo at speeds up to 240 fpm.
Both the Mark Andy DSHD and Digital Series iQ are digital inkjet hybrid presses capable of printing with extended color gamut, 6-color process, and opaque white. Both machines are designed with fast-change flexographic features for top coating, lamination, foil stamping, and specialty color printing and product decoration, along with Mark Andy’s high-speed semi-rotary diecutting system.
Comments Tom Cavalco, managing director, Mark Andy Europe, “Since its launch last year in the Americas, Digital Series iQ has been a fast seller, easily integrated by label converters. We are excited to showcase the machine here for the first time in Europe, on our booth at Labelexpo, and looking forward to seeing friends old and new at this year’s event.”
Durst will be introducing the 20" Tau 510 RSCi, printing at speeds up to 100 m/m (80 m/min at full resolution). The press will be configured with flexo decks both before and after the 1200 dpi print engine. Also on show will be the Tau 330 RSC. Workflow automation is another key trend in digital press technology, and Durst will be showcasing its latest software, including prepress process automation and new features like Save-Ink mode. Working with industry OEM partners, Durst has also developed hybrid digital-flexographic print systems alongside its own digital print ecosystem, and the company will promote the advantages and disadvantages of hybrid.
Konica Minolta will exhibit its full range of equipment for the label market. This will include an AccurioLabel230 digital press inline with a DC330MINI converting unit with a new compact buffer and flexo unit. The company is also demonstrating the MGI JETvarnish 3D Web digital embellishment system, designed for inline 2D and 3D spot UV coating, embossed hot-foiling, diecutting and slitting, and the Inkjet Module IIJ, including new retrofit options.
For label converters looking to diversify, Konica Minolta will show the PKG-675i printer designed for short-run box and display printing.
The company also promises a major new technology at the show, so watch this space for more details. Carsten Bamberg, business development manager, Professional Printing Group, Konica Minolta Europe, says the company remains fully committed to the label market seven years after moving across from the commercial print sector.
“Label, packaging and embellishment markets will continue to be as vibrant as ever. The potential to push boundaries, enter new markets and seize opportunities to create unique customer experiences has never been more exciting.” Bamberg says.
Automation and a continued trends toward digitization are other trends identified by Bamberg: “Demands will continue to increase for a complete start-to-finish manufacturing process with more all-in-one solutions, as well as a need for production devices that need fewer and less-skilled operators. One specific growth trend includes enhanced finishing such as embellishment, increased automation, online print purchasing and web shops, plus, of course, the unstoppable analog to digital transition.”
Canon is a relatively recent entry to the narrow-web market and aims to make a major impact at Labelexpo Europe 2022 with two LabelStream 4000 UV inkjet presses on its stand – one in a hybrid configuration and one digital-only. The press prints at 75 m/m on a 410mm print width using Xaar 2001 inkjet heads. The hybrid format LabelStream 4000 incorporates a 6-color print engine (WCMYKO) with one flexo station before and one after the digital unit, along with a cold foil unit, semi rotary diecutter and slitter, all inline.
The LabelStream 4000 has been awarded Pantone Capable certification, meaning it can cover over 81% of the Pantone range using a 5-color CMYKO ink set and adopting a Delta E 2000 < 1.5. Applying a Delta E of 2 enables coverage of 96% of the Pantone book. The press has also been certified to the Process Standard Digital (PSD) Print Check based on the Fogra 55 7-color reference gamut.
Meanwhile, Epson is launching the latest version of its established SurePress L-4733 water-base inkjet press. The 6-color SurePress L-4733A/AW uses new water-based inks with improved wettability to expand substrate and application versatility and new print modes for higher productivity and print quality. There will be a focus on greater automation, including a new head cleaning system, which reduces maintenance activity and minimizes downtime. The new inks are formulated and manufactured by Epson to ensure compliance with EU and FDA food and packaging regulations, making them suitable for a wide range of labeling applications, including food, beverage, industrial, cosmetic, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Finally, Afinia is looking to widen the options available for digital printing of flexible packaging with the commercial launch of its FP-230 press – seen at Labelexpo Europe 2019 in its prototype form. The FP-230 uses the company’s L901 Plus 1600 dpi Memjet print engine to produce full-color prints on rolls up to 230mm wide with a maximum speed of 18 m/m. Variable data and color matching are handled by the optional Northstar RIP. The water-based inks have been approved for food packaging when combined with inline cold lamination, with the finished roll trimmed using the two rotary knives.