|
News
February 2010
FUJIFILM launches the new Acuity Advance HS
UV inkjet printer
FUJIFILM Australia is pleased to announce the introduction of the new Acuity Advance HS large format UV inkjet printer. The Advance HS is the next generation printer in the highly successful Acuity series, first launched in April 2007, and which have quickly become the fastest selling flatbed UV inkjet printers in the market today. The Advance HS will sit alongside the Acuity Advance and Advance X2 printers in FUJIFILM’s printer line-up.
The Acuity Advance HS is the latest breakthrough in wide format UV digital imaging technology from FUJIFILM. The printer offers near photographic quality printing, improved speeds and all at a truly affordable price. While the Acuity Advance HS maintains many of the leading design features of the Acuity HD2504 and Acuity Advance models, it incorporates a modified print-head array to achieve up to twice the printing speeds of the Acuity Advance. With typical production speeds of 40m˛ per hour and a high quality mode with speeds of 28m˛ per hour, the Acuity Advance HS will deliver more daily output than any other printer in its class. In addition, a new “express” mode will offer billboard quality prints at up to 65m˛ per hour.
The Acuity Advance HS also has a newly redesigned UV curing system which reduces heat output by 40%, compared to the Acuity Advance, while maintaining UV curing output for excellent finishing results. The Acuity Advance HS flatbed design employs a zoned vacuum table to hold all types of media, including irregularly shaped or uneven surfaced materials. This ensures accurate registration even on multiple passes. It also prints edge-to-edge, saving time and labour in finishing. In addition, the Acuity Advance HS expands the number of possible print applications with a versatile white ink option, to complement the standard four colour CMYK offering, and a roll media option for printing onto any number of flexible materials. The Acuity Advance HS is so versatile an operator can prepare rigid material on the flatbed while the roll media option is printing.
The Acuity Advance HS print performance is optimized by FUJIFILM Sericol’s uniquely formulated Uvijet inks. Uvijet’s patented Micro-V dispersion technology delivers wide adhesion, vibrancy and durability in every print. With two unique ink sets available for the Advance HS, customers can choose the right ink to suit their specific application requirements.
Commercial shipments of the Acuity Advance HS will commence in March 2010. The Acuity Advance HS will be demonstrated at the International Sign Association tradeshow in Orlando, April 7-10, and at Ipex in Birmingham, May 18th, on the FUJIFILM stand.
For more information, contact FUJIFILM Australia’s Sericol Division on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
February 2010
Printing Carpets™ appoints FUJIFILM Australia as distributor in Australia
Printing Carpets, The Netherlands BV, one of Europe's established providers of printable floor coverings, partners with FUJIFILM Australia to expand Australian product offering.
After successful print results in 2009 with efi Vutek, Oce, Hollanders Printing systems, Mimaki, Matan, Gandi Innovations, Durst and FUJIFILM printers, Printing Carpets are proud to anounce that it has agreed to appoint FUJIFILM Australia as distributor in Australia for their niche media supplies. This move will allow Australian grand and large format inkjet printers access to these innovative printable floor coverings, to be supplied as part of FUJIFILM’s growing Euromedia range of approved substrates.
FUJIFILM Australia’s Sericol division distributes UV, solvent and textile digital inks and printers, screen printing inks and consumables, narrow web inks and other related products. With its team of dedicated staff and nationwide distribution, FUJIFILM was an ideal distributor to support Printing Carpet's products in the market.
The Printing Carpet’s portfolio of media include carpets, logo mats, bar runners, street foils and floor vinyl’s using UV and Solvent based grand and large format digital printing and digital dye sublimation technologies.
Talking about this new agreement, Raymond Kluit of Printing Carpet’s European Sales, said “As manufacturers of carpets and floor mats specially for the digital LFP market we are very proud with this new arrangement with FUJIFILM Australia promoting our media as part of their Euromedia label. The market is asking for our materials and now we can supply much quicker.”
“The new Floor Vinyl Luxe is a real breakthrough and we are happy to see the material in the Euromedia range.”
Dye-sub Carpet XXL Solvent / UV Carpet Extra UV Floor Vinyl Luxe
Tatjana Ferguson, Large Format Business Manager for FUJIFILM’s Sericol Division, commented “We are excited to be working with Printing Carpets. These interesting new products allow us to broaden our Euromedia offering for grand and large format printers and to encourage both printers and their customers to think creatively by looking at print jobs in different ways.”
Patrick Koen, Product and Marketing Manager added “Print results with the Floor Vinyl Luxe on the Acuity Advance have been amazing and the abrasion resistance perfect for high traffic areas. Among others, the possibilities these products hold for exhibition graphics printers are numerous”.
For more information, or to arrange a sample, contact your local sales representative or FUJIFILM Australia’s Tatjana Ferguson on 0404 031 187 or email tatjana.ferguson@fujifilm.com.au
www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
Visit the printing carpets website for the list of our partner approved media list at
www.printingcarpets.com
^ back to top
February 2010
FUJIFILM and Epson extend partnership
FUJIFILM Australia is pleased to announce the addition of the Epson Stylus® Pro GS6000 large format printer to their printer portfolio. With a maximum print resolution of 1440 x 1440 dpi along with an advanced Epson MicroPiezo Dual Array print head and Variable-Sized Droplet Technology capable of generating ink droplets as small as 3.7pl, the Epson Stylus® Pro GS6000 offers high quality display graphics previously associated with Epson aqueous printer technologies.
The 1.6m wide (64”) mild solvent printer produces fast throughput and industry-leading print quality in Vinyl Production Mode print speeds up to 9.2m2 per hour, whilst in Banner Production Mode the speed is up to an impressive 25.2m2 per hour.
Ideal for printing onto a broad range of flexible media, the Epson Stylus® Pro GS6000 print performance is optimised by an 8 colour Epson UltraChrome® GS ink system.
The resulting wide colour gamut coupled with FUJIFILM-tested and approved Euromedia solvent media products, enables printers to produce exceptionally high quality, vibrant graphics with this easy to operate and maintain device.
Tatjana Ferguson, Large Format Business Manager for FUJIFILM’s Sericol Division, comments “The GS6000 will certainly be a complementary addition to our printer portfolio, fulfilling a high quality, high end positioning in our solvent based range.”
Epson National Business Development Manager (Sign & Display) Terry Crawford adds “I am delighted FUJIFILM’s Sericol Division has expanded our partnership. Their in-depth knowledge within the Sign & Display markets ideally suits the Pro GS6000 large format printer”.
FUJIFILM’s Sericol division is fully backed by Epson therefore FUJIFILM customers will experience the same level of support as Epson customers.
The Epson Stylus Pro® GS6000 is available for demonstration in both the Balcatta (WA) and Kings Park (NSW) FUJIFILM showrooms.
For more information, or to arrange a demonstration, contact your local sales representative or FUJIFILM Australia’s Tatjana Ferguson on 0404 031 187 or email tatjana.ferguson@fujifilm.com.au
www.epson.com.au
www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
April 2009
Inca Onset S20 UV Flatbed printer debuts in North America during Print 09 amidst healthy worldwide orders
As the Inca Onset S20 appears publicly for the first time in North America at the Fujifilm Corporation booth 6919 during Print 09, Inca Digital reports healthy orders booked for its new UV flatbed printer in Europe - along with a number of orders that were received for North America, even before the machine has its US debut. In fact, the first machine in the U.S. has already been delivered to Concept Imaging in Miamisburg, Ohio.
The Inca Onset S20 delivers POP quality production at speeds up to 2690 sq.ft/hr (250 sq.m/hr) or 50 full bed sheets/hr (123.6 inches x 63 inches / 3.14m x 1.6m) on substrates up to 2 inches (50mm) thick. Aimed at companies with high-volume production needs, the high-speed printer produces superb quality display graphics economically.
"The roll-out of the Inca Onset S20 has gone very well with healthy initial sales and there has been a steady stream of demos. At the moment, we are already taking Onset S20 orders for delivery in late 2009 and into 2010", remarks Linda Bell, Inca Digital CEO. "Along with its obvious speed, we have been very pleased with the machine's print quality, and the feedback from our customers supports our observation. They say quality has been exceptional."
The Inca Onset S20 features automation options, user replaceable printheads, expanded color gamut and new gloss levels. Inca-configured printheads on a full print width color bar deliver a 28-picolitre drop size which, along with Inca's high standard for delivery of precision ink drop placement, produce excellent print quality. Inca's know-how and capability with printhead electronics controls pulse width and voltage to printheads to exceptional levels of accuracy.
While the standard color set of the Inca Onset S20 is Fujifilm Sericol's Uvijet four-color process CMYK, Ultratone inks (lights, orange, violet) or white are also available. This, as well as a choice of satin, semi-gloss and gloss finishes, delivers enormous versatility in the range of graphics that can be printed, from display POP and exhibition graphics to backlit/frontlit displays and outdoor sign printing. The choice of Wasatch or ColorGATE RIP offers the customer easy file set-up and in-depth color management control for a variety of applications."
Customers report that the combination of gloss modes along with the six-color option creates outstanding, vibrant prints," comments Heather Kendle, Inca Digital Director of Marketing. "Other customers have shown interest in the ability to print with white along with CMYK. The machine's versatility means they are also able to create special effects, such as spot varnish finishes, to increase impact. The combination of speed and unique print capabilities has attracted the interest of a good number of printers who are able to offer a differentiated print product along with competitive, yet profitable, pricing."
Inca Onset S20 UV inkjet printers are available exclusively in Australia through FUJIFILM.
^ back to top
April 2009
FUJIFILM Sericol Australia to integrate with FUJIFILM Australia
FUJIFILM Sericol Australia is set to integrate with FUJIFILM Australia from 4 May 2009, operating as a new business unit within FUJIFILM Australia’s head office at Brookvale in Sydney’s northern suburbs.
FUJIFILM Australia Managing Director, Dave Marshall, said it is a great opportunity to have the FUJIFILM Sericol portfolio incorporated as part of FUJIFILM Australia’s business operations.
“As technologies continue to overlap, we see synergies across our business group that will help combine and strengthen our offerings to all customers,” Mr Marshall said.
FUJIFILM Sericol Asia Pacific Regional Director, Jeff Hand, said having additional FUJIFILM Australia resources will help drive the FUJIFILM Sericol business to another level.
“The new structure will help further improve our service to existing customers and also provide opportunities with new customers,” Mr Hand said.
FUJIFILM Sericol Australia General Manager, Mark Brown, will lead the new Sericol business unit
“We have been working progressively with FUJIFILM Australia over the past year to integrate sites and resources within existing infrastructure across Australia,” Mr Brown said.
“This has been a seamless process for customers who will continue to receive the same high quality products backed by the superior level of service they have come to expect from FUJIFILM Sericol Australia,” he said.
About FUJIFILM
FUJIFILM is a world leader in imaging, information and document technologies. With a commitment to extensive research and development, FUJIFILM provides a leading edge range of products and services that incorporate proprietary technologies which contribute to the advancement of such fields as culture, science, technology and industry, as well as improved health and environment protection. Ultimately, FUJIFILM’s aim is to help enhance the quality of life for people worldwide.
About FUJIFILM Sericol
FUJIFILM Sericol is a leader in the development, formulation and manufacture of screen and inkjet inks to the graphics, label and textile markets. The company also markets the Inca range of flatbed digital printers worldwide as part of an extensive selection of wide format inkjet printers. The company, based in the UK, is a wholly owned subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation in Japan.
www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
February 2009
Fujifilm launches the new Acuity Advance X2 UV inkjet printer
FUJIFILM Sericol is pleased to announce the introduction of the new Acuity Advance X2 wide format UV inkjet printer. The Acuity Advance X2 is the next generation in the highly successful Acuity series, first launched in April 2007 and quickly becoming the fastest selling flatbed UV inkjet printer in the market today.
While the Acuity Advance X2 maintains many of the leading design features associated with all Acuity platforms, the Acuity Advance X2 has a print area double that of the current Acuity Advance printer, while maintaining the same high quality now expected with Acuity platforms. The Acuity Advance X2 is capable of printing onto substrates of 3.05m x 2.5m and as thick as 48mm. The dual zoning system with independent vacuum control allows the printing of an image in one zone whilst setting up another image in the second, thereby increasing throughput.
The Acuity Advance X2 incorporates the same modified printhead array as the Acuity Advance. In production mode the print speed is up to 22m2/hr (237 ft2/hr); whilst in high quality mode the speed is 15m2/hr (161 ft2/hr). In addition, the Acuity Advance X2 also expands the possibilities with the white ink option, to complement the standard four colour CMYK offering. Utilizing Fujifilm Sericol Uvijet UV inks, the Acuity Advance X2 delivers unmatched flexibility, allowing users to print a very opaque white under, over or between print layers.
Incorporating small drop, greyscale printhead technology, the Acuity Advance X2 delivers near-photographic image quality, and includes a true flatbed platform to easily print onto a wide variety of rigid substrates. Additionally, an optional roll-to-roll module is ideal for printing onto all types of flexible media.
The Acuity Advance X2 will be unveiled at the Graf Italia show, (March 24th –March 28th 2009), on the Fujifilm stand. Commercial shipments will commence in May.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
February 2009
Coldenhove Papier settles patent dispute
Eerbeek, 20 January 2008 - W.A. Sanders Papierfabriek ‚Coldenhove BV (Coldenhove Papier - Brand name Jetcol® and owner of a Patent) and Papierfabriken Cham-Tenero AG (Cham Paper Group – Brand name Transjet®) recently settled their dispute and have signed an agreement regarding digital dye-sublimation transfer paper. Cham Paper Group will continue to manufacture and sell Cham’s digital transfer paper. The Parties have agreed not to disclose the details of the agreement.
^ back to top
February 2009
Fuji Xerox and FUJIFILM Australia join forces at PacPrint 09
‘Connect with Opportunity’ showcases opportunities for future business growth
Sydney, February 2, 2009 — For the first time, Fuji Xerox Australia and FUJIFILM Australia will team up to create one of the most comprehensive public showcases of print and publishing solutions ever seen at PacPrint.
Measuring 765sq/m, the stand will feature the latest offerings from both industry leaders and will serve as a hub of information for PacPrint 09 attendees wanting to grow their businesses.
“We are proud to showcase our combined strength in the world of graphic communications at this premier industry event,” said Andy Lambert, managing director of Fuji Xerox Australia. “PacPrint brings together the best of the best under one roof and with Fuji Xerox Australia and FUJIFILM Australia combining their efforts, business owners can be assured that they will be exposed to new opportunities and ideas from around the globe, many of which may provide new ideas for further growth.”
PacPrint 09 will provide both organisations with a platform to display and demonstrate the seamless interoperability of its technology solutions and showcase leading applications. Attendees to the stand will be able to view efficient workflow solutions in action – many of which will be deployed to produce applications dynamically and on the spot.
Fuji Xerox Australia
Key to this year’s stand will be the workflow processes in place to demonstrate the efficient and cost-effective production of photobooks and other emerging applications; variable data printing; web to print; one-to-one communications (including transpromo and direct marketing); and book publishing.
Also on show will be a number of Fuji Xerox’s impressive high-end, mid-range and entry-level production printers and presses as well as offline finishing products and workflow solutions.
Print solutions on show will include the newly released Xerox iGen4 Colour Press with a book factory, 2 x 700 Digital Colour Presses, a DocuColor 8000AP Colour Press, the Nuvera 288 monochrome production printer, two entry level products namely the FX4127 and DocuColor 252 printers; and the DocuColor 1257GA colour proofing system.
FUJIFILM Australia
The FUJIFILM Australia Group will showcase an extensive product range from FUJIFILM Graphic Systems, FUJIFILM Imaging and FUJIFILM Sericol.
As a complete prepress solution provider of consumables, Cross Media Workflow/Colour Management & both Violet & Thermal Computer to Plate systems, FUJIFILM Graphic Systems will showcase its premier hardware product range comprising the Luxel V-6 Series and Screen PT-R4300. There will also be four workflow zones offering specific expertise on a range of key technologies and workflow solutions.
FUJIFILM Imaging will present a variety of digital media and devices, including the DPC range of NXT and seated kiosks that will demonstrate various outputs to Frontier Digital Minilabs, Frontier Drylabs, Thermal instant printers, wide format and Fuji Xerox printers.
An extensive range of wide format products will also be presented by FUJIFILM Sericol including the Inca Spyder, FUJIFILM Acuity Advance, Mutoh Texjet 1604 and Mutoh ValueJet 1604w 1.
A range of DS Chemport products, will also feature on the stand.
FUJIFILM Australia Managing Director, Dave Marshall, said the collaborative efforts being showcased by Fuji Xerox Australia and the FUJIFILM Australia Group demonstrates the synergies that exist between the two organisations and the total business solution that will be on offer to stand visitors.
“Fuji Xerox Australia and FUJIFILM Australia are each internationally renowned and highly regarded for their respective technology expertise and superior quality standards.
“By combining our complete suite of tools, technology, colour expertise, consulting and output solutions, visitors to the Fuji Xerox Australia and FUJIFILM Australia Group stand can expect to be treated to an extensive selection of business solutions that harness the latest technology available to accommodate current and future business growth,” Mr. Marshall said.
For Further Information, contact:
Laura Barnett
Fuji
Xerox Australia
Ph: 02 9856 5115
E: laura.Barnett@aus.fujixerox.com
Deidre McAlinden
FUJIFILM Australia - Media Consultant
Ph: 0417 758 432
E: deidre.mcalinden@bigpond.com.au
Philippa Lowe
Just Go Write – Signature Public Relations
Ph: 02 9528 8784
E: pjl@justgowrite.com.au
PacPrint 09: Fuji Xerox Australia and FUJIFILM Australia
Fuji Xerox Australia and FUJIFILM Australia will share a joint stand at PacPrint 09. All attendees are invited to the stand’s central cafe to converse and connect throughout the exhibition.
Stand Details:
Stand Number - F10 (immediately facing doors 2 and 3)
Total space - 765sq/m
About Fuji Xerox Australia
Fuji Xerox Australia is one of Australia’s leading document technology and services companies, marketing a wide range of Fuji Xerox and Xerox products, solutions and services. With knowledge and capabilities to design and implement document solutions for offices, print rooms, commercial printers and publishing environments, Fuji Xerox has expertise in print and software solutions, office supplies and managed services.
The company, its management and staff are driven to create sustainable value for its customers. We focus on continuous improvement across economic, environmental and social criteria, whilst helping our customers achieve enhanced efficiency, productivity and environmental benefits.
About FUJIFILM
FUJIFILM is a world leader in imaging, information and document technologies. With a commitment to extensive research and development, FUJIFILM provides a leading edge range of products and services that incorporate proprietary technologies which contribute to the advancement of such fields as culture, science, technology and industry, as well as improved health and environment protection. Ultimately, FUJIFILM’s aim is to help enhance the quality of life for people worldwide.
www.fujifilm.com.au
^ back to top
January 2009
Inca Digital Appoints Dr. Linda Bell as New CEO
12th January 2009 - Inca Digital Printers, the inkjet printing specialist, today announces the appointment of Dr Linda Bell as CEO with effect from 1st February 2009.
“Dr Bell has a strong track record of transforming technical businesses in the industrial sector on a global scale. After gaining her DPhil(Oxon) in Inorganic Chemistry, she held senior commercial and business development roles with ICI (Imperial Chemical Industries PLC) for 17 years, managing a range of manufacturing operations and sales networks. In 2001 she was appointed Managing Director of Servomex Group Ltd, a gas analysis instrumentation manufacturer, where she successfully transformed worldwide operations.
"Inca Digital has built an excellent reputation as developer and manufacturer of innovative inkjet printers, particularly in the UK and USA. I join at an exciting time when the company is looking to expand its global presence," says Dr Bell. "Large format printing is a growing market and we intend to remain a premier supplier. Market conditions are tough for everyone at the moment but with the support from our parent company Dainippon Screen and our ability to develop market leading technology we are in a good position. I'm really looking forward to working with Inca at an exciting time for the business."
Bill Baxter, who established the company in 2000, changes his CEO role to take on a strategic technical advisory position with Dainippon Screen, Inca's parent company. He said: "The past eight years have been absolutely fantastic for me and the business. When we started we were one of only three large format inkjet printer pioneers and very much focussed on engineering excellence. Today there are ten times that many suppliers but we have remained at the forefront by bringing bigger, better and faster models to a market which has been transformed by digital large format graphics production. As Inca enters an important new phase of expansion, the time is right for a new CEO who can bring high level commercial and operational experience to an international manufacturing business."
Commenting on the appointment, Nigel Puttergill, Inca Chairman, said: "I am delighted to welcome Linda to Inca. With her considerable expertise we are extremely well positioned to build on our solid foundations and grow our business on an international scale."
^ back to top
January 2009
New faces going places
Fujifilm Sericol Australia is proud to announce the appointment of Tatjana Ferguson to the position of Wide Format Manager, created recently to assist new and existing customers across a broad spectrum of digital products and services. “It is a broad title,” admits Tatjana, “but essentially I’m here to help customers with any piece of equipment, ink or consumables in the water-based and eco solvent sectors in the wide format market.”
"I believe Fujifilm Sericol can offer a complete solution to customers who are either in that market or are thinking of moving into it. And it’s a wide market (forgive the pun), from traditional sign shops and screen printers to CAD-based companies that are moving into wide format colour equipment.”
With 16 years experience in the industry, working with organisations such as Anitech and Spandex, Tatjana’s knowledge gives her a strong base to provide both technical assistance and good, old fashioned customer service.
The print industry is experiencing new technologies that bring improvements and accessibility to the wide format market. “There are some wide format printers that represent perfect examples of these advances by combining speed, quality and affordability,” explains Tatjana.
“I believe Fujifilm Sericol has abilities in the wide format market that are far ahead of anyone else. In taking on this new role, I want to establish long term relationships with customers. And I believe we can do that better than anyone else, as well.”
Tatjana can be contacted on mobile number 0404 031 187 or email tatjana.ferguson@fujifilmsericol.com
For more information, visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
January 2009
Brett brings broad experience to Narrow Web
Fujifilm Sericol Australia is proud to announce the appointment of Brett Demetriou as our new Application Specialist for Narrow Web printing. With 17 years experience in the printing industry, Brett brings a broad scope of experience to the business.
While Brett is now specialising in narrow web printing, importantly for our customers he completed his apprenticeship as a hands-on printer and there is not much he doesn’t know about most printing types. “My experience ranges across almost every print process,” says Brett. “from Letterpress, UV Offset, Rotary Screen to UV Flexo.”
He sees the opportunity to consolidate the level of service and support offered to customers, as well as making himself available to businesses that may be looking for a change to Fujifilm Sericol to experience superior service and advanced technologies in UV inks.
“Narrow web has come a long way in the last five years and we’ve made real gains in UV ink technology to improve productivity and output. We’re putting a lot of work into refining scales and colour matching systems to help pre-press.” When Fujifilm Sericol launched the UVivid JD ink range, we set new standards in high definition UV flexo printing. Customers achieved print results previously unattainable with flexographic technologies. Now printers who use UV letterpress and UV offset for their narrow web projects can also achieve the same high definition results with the entire UVivid range.”
“With some press types now servo driven, printers are looking for greater quality and productivity,” explains Brett. “It’s my job to work with them to show them how our UV inks can do the job they need.”
Fujifilm Sericol offers the total package when it comes to narrow web printing, featuring ancillary products such as 3M Easy Mount mounting tape and Sandon aniloxs, as well as our exclusive Pantone® colour management systems.
Brett can be contacted on mobile number 0414 873 004 or email brett.demetriou@fujifilmsericol.com
For more information, visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
January 2009
New faces going places
Fujifilm Sericol welcomes two new staff members who further strengthen our sales and customer support services.
Mike Harris – Technical Sales Representative – NSW Region
You could imagine that Mike’s customers really look forward to his visits, as he is a genuinely likeable man with a ready laugh and boundless knowledge and enthusiasm. Born into a printing family and a screen printer by trade, Mike was there at the very beginning of desktop publishing. He spent many years in executive roles at Letraset (who among our readers remembers burnishing individual letters onto artboard?), ran Artistcare outlets, worked for Agfa as sales manager and then state manager, and has worked in other high-level and hands-on roles in the print industry.
His experience covers almost every aspect of the business, and he believes it is experience that counts. “Fujifilm Sericol has the knowledge of inks & applications, the technical background and proven performance regarding press technology,” says Mike. “Our clients trust this experience.”
Mike has seen so much change since his screen printing days. “For me, digital is the future,” he says. “We half-expected the total demise of film by the mid 2000s but that hasn’t happened, however large printers are moving to digital to cover their short run printing. Besides my managing large accounts, another part of my role is in helping printers realise the benefits of going digital.” Mike believes educating graphic designers will also maintain the digital momentum. “It’s the imagination of the users of the products we sell, that’s the only boundary.”
Mark Stallbaum – Technical Sales Representative – Victoria Region
In his 20-odd years in the print business, Mark has experienced first hand many changes across the entire industry. “My father came from the letterpress side and saw the advancement to offset, and I in turn, witnessed tremendous changes in automation, speed and quality to the offset process,” explains Mark. “It was fairly straight forward back then, those that didn’t make the change eventually fell away’’. I believe it is the right time to consider the benefits of digital, to either compliment the existing screen printing process or, in some cases, to take over from it.
Mark’s industry experience has covered five years in the self-adhesive label industry assisting major companies in the sales and technical area. He has spent 16 years in technical sales in capital equipment, mainly in the offset field, but his role also included dealing with finishing, packaging and label houses. Mark sees opportunities ahead for progressive printing businesses. “I see tremendous possibilities for companies to get themselves involved in wide format digital printing. For years that business has been screen based, but the digital side complements it beautifully, and that includes offset printers and even pre-press design houses.”
Mark looks after a broad group of customers, keeping them informed about products and services… and opportunities. “There seems to be a progression of Companies from both the traditional screen and digital design side that are more prepared to explore other options by looking at more economical and faster ways of turning jobs around,” says Mark. “We have a perfect opportunity to show printers the benefits of taking on the new technologies with a focus on the latest digital flatbed equipment”. ‘’To progress, there is a need to invest and move ahead with the times’.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
December 2008
Sporteze score points with Dye Sub ValueJet
Sporteze 2000+, a husband and wife screen printing operation in Barragup, Western Australia, has one of the more memorable names in the printing industry. “We chose the name Sporteze 2000+ back in 2000,” explains co-owner Jackie Watson. “It comes from what we do for sporting clubs, that is, screen printing of shirts, stubby holders and the like.”
The company’s clients range from corporate – Telstra and Big Pond out of Adelaide - to local WA businesses and sporting organisations that require the printing of logos or promotional material onto polyester shirts and neoprene stubby holders. The company also does embroidering of promotional business shirts. Like many small businesses, Sporteze had humble beginnings. “In 1998 we bought a business that produced screen printed tea towels for tourists. We were working from under a carport.” After moving into shirt and stubby holder printing, the business grew by word of mouth. Jackie recalls those times. “The business was growing. We were using basic screen printing equipment based on a 6-colour and 4-colour carousel and we were doing it all by hand. We were at the point where we felt new equipment was needed. So we took ourselves off to a printing expo in Sydney.”
While inspecting the new technologies on display – in Jackie’s words ‘we were blown away by the amazing equipment’ - they encountered the Fujifilm Sericol Mutoh ValueJet 1604W1 digital dye sublimation water-based inkjet printer. Jackie and her partner felt this was their next purchase, but it was something other than the technical ability of the machine that convinced them.
Once bitten…
The Mutoh ValueJet 1604W1 printer has been specifically developed as an entry level digital dye sublimation water-based inkjet printer. It offers impeccable print quality up to 1440 x 1440 dpi and print speeds of up to 15 m˛ per hour. Inexperienced operators need not be concerned as the ValueJet 1604W1 is easy to set up and use. The machine uses CMYK ink and offers a media width of 1625 mm and a printing width of 1615 mm. The ValueJet incorporates the new generation piezo drop-on-demand variable drop ‘wide-model’ print head. The 1440 nozzle head incorporates four colour sections - two nozzle rows of 180 nozzles per colour.
“We really liked the machine but we were sceptical at taking the plunge,” says Jackie. “We had been given the run-around by another company on some new equipment, who promised a lot but didn’t deliver, so we were once bitten. Meeting the Fujifilm Sericol people changed our mind. They showed us how the machine worked and we were impressed with it, and reassured with them. We’ve never looked back.” Fujifilm Sericol’s digital textiles applications specialist, Andrew Marrs, brings a wealth of knowledge and has been instrumental in supporting the introduction of these advancing textile technologies.
Jackie believes the ValueJet 1604W1 has made her job easier. “You’re not lining up screens and washing down anymore. You just do the artwork on the computer, transfer it into the printer and heat-transfer the printout onto the product. Much easier and the result looks much better. “I like the way the (water-based) inks don’t sit on top of the fabric. They sink in and you don’t have to flash-cure them colour by colour so the printing is quicker. The final colours are so vibrant. It’s easy to operate and I enjoy working with it.”
Sporteze chose the complete ValueJet package that included the J-Feeder continuous ink delivery system, J-Eco Subly Nano NS-60 inks designed for polyester textiles, and Jetcol digital transfer papers.
Jackie believes the ValueJet has been instrumental in bringing in more business, due to the higher quality of their product without a commensurate higher cost. “But I don’t really want the business to grow too much more,” says Jackie. “I enjoy getting out and meeting people all the time. I don’t want to get to the stage where I miss out on that.”
For more information on Fujifilm Sericol Australia’s products and services call 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
Sporteze 2000+ can be contacted on 08 9537 8062
^ back to top
December 2008
Fujifilm Sericol Australia Introduce Coldenhove Papier’s New Thermal Adhesive Digital Transfer Paper
The latest innovation from the world’s leading dye sublimation paper specialist, Coldenhove Papier, sees Jetcol TA thermal adhesive digital dye sublimation transfer paper introduced into the Australian market.
The digital dye sublimation industry demands quality at a competitive price and Jetcol TA offers exactly that. Maintaining the quality, high transfer yield, excellent contour, detail, unsurpassed color gamut, consistency and stability of the popular Jetcol HTR range of papers, Jetcol TA paper also incorporates a unique thermal adhesive coating. Jetcol TA will adhere to the fabric during transfer, eliminating ghosting and loss of detail and will further increase the quality of end products requiring fine detail.
The 95gsm Jetcol TA Thermal Adhesive paper will be available to order through Fujifilm Sericol Australia in widths of 1.08metres, 1.32metres and 1.62metres.
For more information on Fujifilm Sericol Australia’s products and services call 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
November 2008
Decision to go flatbed confirmed by seeing double
The next acquisition for his business was confirmed when Peter Brown saw his “omen” in Germany. While admiring the printing exhibition’s acres of flash and dazzle equipment at the DRUPA show in Düsseldorf, Peter spotted a digital flatbed printer that seemed familiar. He had travelled to Germany to research his company’s next acquisition and what he found confirmed his decision. “I’d seen the Acuity in Australia then found it again at DRUPA” explains Peter. “I was impressed both times so the decision was made.”
Peter Brown and his brother Philip started their printing company, Mr B Screenprinting, in their garage around 25 years ago. The unusual Mr B name came about because all the other names the boys chose were already taken, so on the spot Philip’s wife came up with Mr B and registered it. Memorable name aside, Mr B Screenprinting has become one of the major printing operations in Victoria, doing work for local customers and nationally for such big players as Carlton & United Breweries, Australia Post and the National Bank’s 700 sites. “We are a screen printing and signage company producing corflutes, metal and plastic signs and decals. We excel in service and delivery,” says Peter. “We also seem to do well at the oddball jobs, where you have a combination of digital printing, screen printing and computer graphics, and we can produce the job because we do all three here.”
The business has up to nine staff and Peter is quite certain about his people’s strengths. “Versatility. Our staff can do everything in the factory, that’s how we train them.” In addition to the Acuity, the business has two roll-fed digital printing machines and two semi-automatic screen printing machines.
Quality product and on-time delivery from the new Acuity UV flatbed
Mr B recently installed the new Acuity HD2504 wide format UV flatbed printer from Fujifilm Sericol. “We’re all about quality, not speed, but we make sure we deliver on time. The Acuity does all that for us,” says Peter.
The Acuity is the latest breakthrough in wide format UV digital imaging technology, offering photographic quality printing that provides a quick return on investment. Peter was taken by the simplicity of the Acuity. “It’s made a lot of the jobs we would do in the past push-button,” explains Peter. “For example, in the past we would have printed onto a vinyl then mounted it on a panel. Now we print direct to the panel. A lot less effort to get the finished product.”
Peter believes the Fujifilm Sericol staff were very professional by keeping him informed and the training was excellent. He nominated specifically Scott Meltzer (Technical Sales Representative) and Matthew Philp (Digital Applications Specialist) for their service work.
Peter also believes the Acuity gives Mr B the platform to go after new business. “We can now produce certain things in different ways than we could in the past. It makes the production fast, simple and works very well to help us do what we do best – price and delivery.”
“We began as a backyarder and now we have some of Australia’s biggest companies ringing us. And we’ve never had a sales rep on the road.”
What does Peter see for the future in the industry?
“We were pushed to go to computer-cut vinyls, which played havoc with the sign market. Then digital played havoc with the screen printing market. Now flatbed will change the whole market and how we do things. We’re on the front foot with the Acuity.”
For more information on Fujifilm Sericol Australia’s products and services call 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
www.mrbscreenprinting.com.au
^ back to top
November 2008
Inca Spyder 320 helps Reads
write another growth chapter
You cannot travel too far around Adelaide without coming across signage that has been produced by Read Brothers. “We cover a very broad spectrum of work,” explains Ashley Read. “From interior displays to exterior pylon signs as well as a huge amount of vehicle graphics. We screen print corflute signs, self-adhesive stickers, metal signs and a variety of plastics.
Read Brothers Signs is made up of three sections: signmaking and installation, screen printing and digital printing.” Ashley Read and his brothers, Darren and Andrew, began the business 21 years ago, starting from a home shed. They now employ 16 full-time staff and operate from a 1350sqm premises at Thebarton on the outskirts of Adelaide city. The brothers have witnessed many changes in the industry. “Today, customers are demanding a lot more than they ever have,” says Ashley. “They want and expect a quality product that doesn’t cost the earth. They want it faster than ever before. More than ever, the runs have become shorter and a good deal of the product needs to be personalised.”
The brothers believe their business will continue to grow by embracing new technology to service their clients. This led the boys to the Inca Spyder 320 – 8 Series.
More inks give more choice
Ashley’s first contact with the Inca Spyder was at a trade show. “I had met Matthew Philp previously, and meeting him again after his move to Fujifilm Sericol while exhibiting the Spyder at Visual Impact, I was convinced this was the machine to have. “We talked to a lot of people during the decision process and not one person could say anything bad about it, from existing owners to its competition.”
The 8 Series is the latest extension to the popular Spyder 320 range, delivering 8-colour printing and the capability to specify which combination of colours are most suited to your business. In addition to the standard CMYK four process colour inks is a selection of modules from light magenta, light cyan, orange, violet and white. The wider gamut enables some difficult colours to be achieved, as well as offering white, which can be used as an overprint, underprint, or spot colour layer.
Ashley is enthusiastic about their new purchase. “To me the Inca Spyder has been the proven leader of this type of equipment in the market place for quite a few years. When I first looked at this machine I could see the potential for our business.” The brothers chose the Spyder 320 – 8 Series for a number of reasons: print speed, print quality, ease of use, proven track record, back-up support and that its small footprint doesn’t consume their entire workshop.
The Inca Spyder, along with their other machines, now tie together the two traditional areas of their business (sign making and screen printing) as well as giving potential for growth and the ability to service their customers to a higher level.
“Our relationship with Fujifilm Sericol goes back a long way,” says Ashley. “Nothing was too hard for any of the team we dealt with, from initial discussions with Paul Budgen, technical information from Matthew Philp and even the follow up involving local branch manager Dennis Cocks.
”Read Brothers want to stay at the forefront of the industry and continue to provide customers with the right product and solution for their purpose”. Ashley is convinced the Spyder 320 – 8 Series plays an important role in that plan. “So far everyone who has seen the Spyder and the results it produces has been very impressed.”
Read Brothers are keen to offer their services to the trade or field any of your application enquiries, so feel free to contact them on 08 8443 3400 or visit their website at www.readbros.com.au
For more information on Fujifilm Sericol Australia’s products and services call 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
November 2008
Digitally Produced World Record Jigsaw to Show Off Power of
Wide-Format Printing and Cutting
Bangkok, 4 November 2008 - FESPA will create the world’s largest ever digitally producedjigsaw puzzle at FESPA World Expo Asia-Pacific 2008 at BITEC, Bangkok, 28-30 November 2008, in collaboration with the Thailand Exhibition and Convention Bureau (TCEB) and digital wide format specialists Fujifilm Sericol, Industrial Cutting Services Co. Ltd (ICS) with Zünd and Halifax Vogel, all of which are sponsoring the jigsaw initiative.
FESPA’s 18 meters by 20 metres or 360m˛ jigsaw with the image of Bangkok Exhibition City will break the current world record of 340m˛. It will be created using Fujifilm Sericol’s Acuity HD 2504 printer. Once printed, ICS with Zünd will complete the final stage of the project by cutting the giant puzzle pieces with the digital Zünd CNC Knife Cutting Machine.
Because the jigsaw will be displayed outside the exhibition hall during FESPA World Expo Asia-Pacific 2008, Fujifilm Sericol will digitally print the image onto special substrate Imageboard®, an all-purpose, UV stabilised, waterproof, acid-free, all-weather graphic arts board suitable for screen- and digital printing, supplied by Halifax Vogel.
Wide-format printing is all about creating impact, and what better way to showcase this than by breaking a world record for the biggest, digitally produced puzzle. Innovation in digital wide format printing technologies, substrates and cutting have now made it possible to produce highly creative output never previously thought possible. The jigsaw is a great example of the flexibility of digital, the creativity and collaborative commitment of our partners to show the power of large format digital printing that other technology cannot perform.
With over 150 exhibitors, an interesting and diverse Inspire Conference programme and numerous show highlights, both printing and marketing professionals will be inspired and find real value at FESPA World Expo Asia-Pacific 2008.
For more information on FESPA World Expo Asia-Pacific 2008, please visit www.fespaasia.com.
^ back to top
October 2008
Inca Digital releases the new Onset S20 digital flatbed printer
The Inca Onset S20 is designed to deliver the high-volume production needs of specialist display print companies.
The new printer, which will be available from global distributor Fujifilm Sericol, builds on the technology of the Inca Onset - claimed to be the world's fastest digital UV flatbed printer - and boasts unique new features providing unrivalled print speed at a competitive price.
This latest product introduction will allow Inca and Fujifilm Sericol to provide the industry with a choice of UV flatbed digital printers to suit all production requirements.
"The Onset is an ideal printer for customers with high productivity. However we recognise that most customers do not need to produce 600sqm/h of print. The Onset S20 is aimed at customers who like the features of the Onset but who sell less output and want a lower price point," says Bill Baxter, MD of Inca Digital. "Inca can now offer customers machines to suit any budget and throughput need, with the reliability and build quality associated with the Inca name," explains Baxter.
The Onset S20 has been engineered to provide superb levels of performance, quality and flexibility. It features Inca configured printheads on a full print width colour bar with a 28 picolitre drop size. This, combined with Inca's own print module technology and motion systems, boasts precise ink drop placement, producing excellent print quality. The capability to control pulse width and voltage on each individual printhead enables highly accurate control. Uniquely with the Onset S20, there is the ability to replace individual printheads easily, which further reduces maintenance costs.
The Onset S20 prints edge to edge over a 3.12 x 1.6m area on a moving bed on substrates as thick as 50mm. The vacuum table with accurate pin positioning allows users to print single and double sided on a variety of sheet sizes. To provide users with an extra level of performance, a semi-automated material handling system is available as an option.
While the standard colour set of the Inca Onset S20 is Fujifilm Sericol's Uvijet four-colour CMYK, Ultratone inks (lights, orange, violet) and white versions are also available. This, as well as a choice of satin, semi-gloss and gloss finishes, delivers enormous versatility in the range of products that can be printed such as POS display, exhibition graphics, backlit/frontlit displays and outdoor signage printing.
The Wasatch or ColorGATE RIP provides easy file set-up and in-depth colour management control for a variety of applications, says Inca. As with the faster Onset, an integrated scanner automatically checks and ensures accurate print density, and allows printhead nozzle mapping and alignment to assure that quality is not compromised.
With the addition of the Inca Onset S20, Inca offers a range of ten digital UV inkjet flatbed printers in a choice of formats, speeds and colours. The product range enables companies to select the Inca machine that is most suited to their specific requirements.
Sold by distribution partner Fujifilm Sericol, the first commercial shipments of the Onset S20 will be in March 2009.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
October 2008
Fujifilm launches the new Acuity Advance UV inkjet printer
Fujifilm Sericol is pleased to announce the introduction of the new Acuity Advance wide format UV inkjet printer. The new Acuity Advance is the next generation of the highly successful Acuity HD2504, which was launched in April 2007 and has quickly become the fastest selling flatbed UV inkjet printer in the market today.
While the Acuity Advance maintains many of the leading design features of the Acuity HD2504, the Advance model incorporates a modified printhead array to achieve up to 40% faster printing speeds than the HD2504. In production mode the print speed is up to 22m2/hr, whilst in high quality mode the speed is 15m2/hr. In addition, the Acuity Advance expands the possibilities with the introduction of a white ink option, to complement the standard four colour CMYK offering. Utilizing Fujifilm Sericol Uvijet UV inks, the Acuity Advance delivers unmatched flexibility, allowing users to print a very opaque white under, over or between print layers.
The Fujifilm Acuity Advance UV inkjet printer has a print area of 1.25m x 2.5m, and prints onto substrates as thick as 48mm. Incorporating small drop, grayscale printhead technology, the Advance delivers near-photographic image quality, and includes a true flatbed platform to easily print onto a wide variety of rigid substrates. Additionally, an optional roll-to-roll module is ideal for printing onto all types of flexible media.
The Acuity Advance will be unveiled at the SGIA tradeshow, October 15th, on the Fujifilm Sericol stand and will be exhibited locally at the Sydney Visual Impact Image Exhibition from October 30th. Commercial shipments of the new Acuity Advance will commence in November.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
September 2008
Inca Digital launches new high-speed Spyder V flatbed printer
Inca Digital Printers announces the introduction of the Inca Spyder V, a new, faster printer based on the design of the popular and highly successful Spyder series of flatbed inkjet printers.
The Spyder V printer has a unique Inca designed printhead array to achieve a higher throughput than other Spyder 320 printers. Print speed is up to 93m²/hr in production mode with a maximum speed of 130m²/hr.
The Spyder V has a print area of 3.2 x 1.6m on substrates as thick as 30mm. While the standard colour set of the Spyder V is four colour CMYK, a six colour version is also available with the option of using Fujifilm Sericol’s unique Uvijet Ultratone colour system.
The Inca Spyder V’s 25 picolitre drop size, combined with Inca's own print module technology, delivers precise ink drop placement, producing the excellent print quality for which Inca is renowned. Its colour management flexibility and easy file set-up with the RIP, plus exceptional white ink opacity make it a highly adaptable system for the display printer producing a range of close viewing point-of-sale materials, external displays, backlit/frontlit displays and graphics.
Valley Printing in Bingley, UK, the beta test site for the Spyder V and a long time Inca customer, is delighted with the performance of the new printer. “I’m very impressed with its speed, performance and quality,” says John Haggas, Chairman and MD. “We produce ink heavy displays for retail POS customers and the Spyder V produces high impact results with good ink adhesion on a tremendous variety of base materials. The beauty of the Spyder is the consistency of the print it produces which reduces waste and keeps production costs down. Plus, I like its small footprint which allows me to pile in/out stock close to the machine.” The Spyder V will complement other Spyder models in the range. Its faster speed enables the Spyder V to fill the gap between the traditional Spyder 320 series and the faster Turbo Plus which delivers speeds of up to 160m²/hr. For customers still requiring the widest colour gamut, the 8 colour Spyder 320 will continue to be a preferred option.
“Although the Spyder 320 is our most popular printer, customer feedback told us that they would like a Spyder printer with speeds closer to that of our Turbos,” explains Heather Kendle, Inca Digital’s director of marketing. “Now, our customers can be even more productive, allowing them extra capacity than they were previously able to generate with the 320 range, whilst still offering versatility on colour options, the Spyder V, with 4 or 6-colour options, provides an even greater selection of Spyder printers from which to choose.”
Inca Digital’s distribution partner, Fujifilm Sericol, will demonstrate the Spyder V at the upcoming SGIA show and is currently taking orders for the Spyder V.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
June 2008
A Tasmanian first in wide format printing
Dean Kearney started his printing company, Typeface Design and Print, around 18 years ago, and in that time he has steered its growth to become one of the major printing businesses in Hobart, Tasmania. “We started out as pre-press, doing film work, then about five years ago we moved into computer to plate,” explains Dean. “We deal with files of any type and specialise in getting the result the customer wants. We can design the job, produce the artwork and deliver the finished product in a timely fashion.”
Typeface’s customers include small graphic designers to advertising agencies to government departments. “Besides doing the traditional print work such as stationery, brochures and annual reports – the bread and butter of the print business – we also offer large format posters and sign writing,” says Dean. As part of Typeface’s growth strategy, the company has moved recently into large format printing. Here’s where Dean’s new purchase comes in, which has helped the business to take another leap forward in growth.
Typeface sees perfect match with new Acuity UV flatbed
Typeface recently installed the new Acuity HD 2504 wide format UV flatbed printer from Fujifilm Sericol. The Acuity is the latest breakthrough in wide format UV digital imaging technology, offering photographic quality printing at speeds that provide a quick return on investment.
“The Acuity is perfect for us,” says Dean. “We’ve been wanting to get into the short run one-off part of the market and the Acuity allows us to print full colour onto any substrate in a run of only one or two.
“It has opened up a large market segment that we could not easily deal in before. To be able to print onto things like Dibond and concrete or ceramic tiles is amazing. We’ve even printed onto house doors!” Dean had been looking to purchase another flatbed and had done his homework. “I first saw the Acuity at the Sydney Show last year and thought that it would be good for us to be the first in Tasmania to have one. I had been looking at buying another flatbed, and in doing my homework through the year I saw the flatbed market move quickly with a lot of new products coming out.”
What was it that helped Dean to make the final decision to purchase the Acuity? “The brilliant photographic reproduction quality of the machine and the ability to print onto almost any substrates. It’s great to be able to print a full sheet in one pass.”
Acuity is the first hi-res, value based UV flatbed
At the heart of the new Acuity wide format UV flat bed printer is a new imaging technology that enables each print head to produce variable size droplets as opposed to traditional fixed droplets. Droplets as fine as 6 picoliter are jetted to produce sharp, precise images with smoother transitions and halftones. Jetting larger droplets up to 42 picoliter delivers denser, more uniform solid image areas. The result is image quality usually seen at resolutions of 1200 dpi or higher. Additionally, the Acuity delivers the high quality finish while using up to 25% less ink.
“The installation went smoothly and we were up and going the same day,” says Dean. “The Sericol installation team was very organised and very helpful. Matt, Steve and Liz have all been extremely helpful with after sales service on issues such as substrates and colour management. We couldn’t be happier.”
The Acuity is allowing Typeface to take on work that the company could not undertake previously, especially in the signage market and in cheaper, short-term colour corflutes. “I would recommend the Acuity to anyone that asked,” says Dean. “I think the machine is robust and technically very capable of producing any job that you want.”
For more information, contact Typeface Design and Print on 03 6234 3636 – Our printing sticks to anything!
See for yourself
The Acuity HD 2504 with roll media option is the latest addition to the Fujifilm Sericol printer range, continuing the tradition of developing high quality products and solutions designed to meet virtually any wide format printing need. You can see a demonstration of the new Acuity with roll media option at Fujifilm Sericol’s showroom and head office in Kings Park, Sydney. An Inca Spyder UV flatbed digital printer and a Mutoh Valuejet dye sublimation roll-to-roll printer are also available for inspection.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
June 2008
Fujifilm Sericol Australia introduce Coldenhove Papier’s new "High Speed Formula" Jetcol HTR 4000 Digital Transfer Paper
Jetcol HTR 4000 140gsm digital transfer paper has long been recognised as the industry benchmark for it's printing stability and high transfer yield, particularly suitable for customers demanding the highest quality dye sublimation transfer paper.
Following the success of Jetcol's High Speed coating technology on 95gsm transfer paper, the same High Speed coating technology will become standard on the 140gsm Jetcol HTR 4000 transfer paper.
Maintaining it’s unsurpassed transfer yields, superb evenness and printing stability, the Jetcol HTR 4000 "High Speed Formula" features drying speeds up to 4 times higher than regular transfer paper. This will provide significant benefits to digital dye sublimation printers, particularly for applications requiring heavy ink loads and deep, vibrant colours.
The improved Jetcol HTR 4000 High Speed paper will be available through Fujifilm Sericol Australia in widths of 1.118metres, 1.32metres and 1.62metres.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
May 2008
A brand new headquarters for J-Teck3 Italy
On April 5th, following the successful FESPA Digital expo in Geneva, J-Teck3 has officially inaugurated its new head quarters in Albese con Cassano (Como Lake Area) with a ceremony which included the J-Teck3 team and 72 partners from Italy and abroad.
The new 3000sqm building consists of a new production plant, large enough to quadruple the ink production with the help of new modern processing equipment, the technologically-advanced J-Lab dedicated to global R&D projects and a 21st century inspired 2nd floor dedicated to sales and administrative offices, training centre and show room as well as meeting rooms for workshop sessions. The site also features J-Teck3’s large warehouse and logistics facility.
The J-Teck production facility upgrade is impressive considering the company is less than 5-years old. But it is J-Teck’s passion for their product that has helped them achieve prestigious targets such as Sawgrass licence for sublimation technology, a world wide distribution network and the partnership with Fujifilm Sericol for the distribution of J-Teck’s inks in Australia.
The inauguration speech by J-Teck3’s President Dr. Gianni Cavallini (pictured front centre) focused on the importance of team work, passion and creativity, echoing the foundations of J-Teck’s philosophy and mission.
Now J-Teck is preparing for ITMA Asia in Shanghai in July 2008, where important technologies in the digital textile printing industry will gather. J-Teck3 welcomes visitors to Hall E3 - Stand D18.
Fujifilm Sericol Australia will be exhibiting J-Teck3 products at Image Expo Adelaide and Visual Impact Image Expo Sydney. Applications support staff will be available for the duration of these exhibitions to discuss your digital textile needs and our latest water-based digital print solutions.
For more information, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
www.j-teck3.it
^ back to top
May 2008
New faces going places
Fujifim Sericol takes pride in its reputation for pioneering new products and technologies and in setting the industry standard for technical service and customer support. As evidence of the company’s commitment to providing customers with top quality technologies, Fujifilm Sericol has recently added to its range of products and services.
Digital Textiles is one such new initiative. After its purchase of J-Teck Australia, a leading supplier of digital textile inks and Coldenhove transfer papers, Fujifilm Sericol now offers a comprehensive package of inks, machines and digital media in this fast growing printing sector. Our package also includes a range of Mutoh digital textile printers.
Another new initiative for Fujifilm Sericol is the development of three new UVivid inks to complement the success of the UVivid JD flexographic ink. The range now provides rotary, letterpress and offset printers with a high quality UV curing narrow web ink system that features high colour strength, ultra low viscosity and adhesion to a very wide range of roll-label synthetic and paper stocks. These are supported by our growing range of additional products for the narrow web industry, such as Alpha-Cure UV lamps, 3M Easy Mount mounting tapes and Sandon Aniloxs.
In line with these new products and to further strengthen Fujifilm Sericol’s customer support services, a number of new staff appointments have been made.
Andrew Marrs - Application Specialist Digital Inks
An offset print machinist by trade, Andrew brings to Sericol customers his knowledge gained on the shop floor and his latter experience with J-Teck digital ink products. Andrew joined Sericol from J-Teck with a goal to assist customers who print on polyester fabrics.
“Creatively you have so many choices with polyester fabrics,” says Andrew. “There is a big future in making great banners and interesting forms of point of sale materials out of polyester. And using our new inks, you find they last a long time in the fabric.”
Andrew wants the digitally driven philosophy of Fujifilm Sericol to become an advantage for our customers.
“As part of a world wide organisation at the forefront of digital technologies - technologies which are progressing at a rapid rate - I would like to be able to bring all this knowledge to the Australian digital textile industry.”
Adrian Mrsnik - Application Specialist Letterpress and Offset Inks
With 20 years experience in the printing industry and 10 more years in the labelling industry, Adrian knows the business. He’s worked on letterpress, litho, screen and flexographic printing processes and brings his experience from being on the floor and in management.
“I understand what managers are looking for in efficiencies, utilisation of products, cost effectiveness and waste reduction.”
Adrian’s wide hands-on experience is compounded by his many contacts throughout the print industry.
Adrian’s role is to advise and support label converters who have letterpress, offset and flexographic processes in using the new UVivid inks range. “Rather than having to deal with numerous ink and consumable companies, they can deal with me for everything,” says Adrian.
“I’d like to think I’m somebody you can depend on to give you the best information possible. ”
Craig Dainty - Application Specialist Digital
Originally from Sericol in the UK, Craig was seconded to join the Australian team to bring the European experience of the Color+ market. As Craig is literally ‘just off the plane’, we need to give him time to settle into our Aussie ways.
While recovering from jet lag – he’s been in Perth and Kuala Lumpur in the space of a week - he did say,“With my experience in Europe I’m here to assist customers in the new Acuity wide format UV flat bed printer and our other UV and Solvent machine technologies. And I’d like to help print firms to develop their digital business.”
Demand for digital is growing among all segments of the printing industry. Fujifilm Sericol continues to provide our customers with the right digital printing products and experienced service, which help to improve their efficiency and profitability.
^ back to top
May 2008
Megaink Digital a.s. signs an Exclusive Agreement with Fujifilm Sericol Australia
Megaink, one of Europe's leading providers of digital inks announces exclusive distribution agreement with Fujifilm Sericol for the Australian wide format inkjet market.
After making headlines in March of this year by announcing its merger with INX International, Megaink Digital a.s. has announced today that it has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Fujifilm Sericol Australia. This move will allow Australian wide format ink users access to high-quality products and services now supplied by Megaink to most parts of Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East.
Fujifilm Sericol Australia manufactures and distributes UV, solvent and textile digital inks, screen printing inks and consumables, narrow web inks and other related products. With its large team of dedicated staff and nationwide distribution, Fujifilm Sericol was an ideal partner to support Megaink's products in the market.
Talking about this new agreement, Avi Bukai, Megaink’s Director of Business Development, said “We are delighted to be able to join forces with Fujifilm Sericol in order to further develop a positive market for wide-format printing inks in Australia. We hope that our leadership in the digital market in other continents, together with Fujifilm Sericol’s strong presence and support network in Australia, will lead to great new business opportunities for both companies.”
Mark Brown, General Manager of Fujifilm Sericol Australia, added “Fujifilm Sericol is excited to be working with Megaink and to be the sole distributor of their products in Australia. Megaink’s high quality and innovative inks will perfectly complement our existing offer of digital products and printers as well as allow us to broaden our offer for wide format printers.”
Alex Nussem, International Director of Sales, concluded by adding “We feel confident that our new agreement with Fujifilm Sericol Australia will strongly benefit our existing and future customers in Australia. It will provide increased access to our unique products backed up by the superior services offered by Fujifilm Sericol. We look forward to the future of this new partnership and to being able to showcase our products throughout this market.”
www.megaink.biz
www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
19 May 2008
Fujifilm Sericol rolls out the Acuity HD2504 RMO
Fujifilm Sericol Australia Pty Limited announces the release of the highly anticipated Acuity HD2504 roll media option. Launching in June 2008, the roll media option for the flatbed Acuity HD2504 provides customers with the versatility of being able to print on both rigid and flexible media. The roll media option supports substrates up to 2.2metres wide with a maximum roll weight of 50kgs.
Manufactured with the view to incorporate both Flatbed and Roll to Roll technologies, the Acuity HD2504 can be upgraded with the roll media option on both new and existing installations. Printers can meet all of their customers campaign needs including POP, banners, posters, illuminated or rigid signs and much more with this breakthrough technology.
The Acuity HD2504 provides a fast return on investment and ongoing savings derived from the variable drop size technology, using up to 35% less ink than a six colour machine. Fujifilm Sericol continues to add value to the relationship through their experienced technical assistance, applications support, software and colour management specialists.
The Acuity HD2504 with Roll Media Option will be demonstrated at the upcoming Image Expo in Adelaide (June 12th and 13th).
For more information or to arrange a demo, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
28 April 2008
New Acuity UV printer quickly becomes a favourite at Ricci Signs (Australia)®
Sean Carey, managing director of Ricci Signs Australia, is a young man brimming with enthusiasm. He’s enthusiastic about his employees’ ambitious creativity and about the future of his business, which has grown well over the last eight years with an expanding portfolio of print projects from large retail and construction corporations.
Ricci Signs’ Beverly Hills, Sydney, premises has a diverse range of printing systems ranging from UV to dye-based, which includes six wide format printers.
However, it’s his latest purchase that has Sean’s enthusiasm bubbling over. Ricci Signs is the proud owner of the new Acuity wide format UV flat bed printer from Fujifilm Sericol.
To say Sean is pleased with the performance of the Acuity would be an understatement. “The Acuity has top-notch resolution, the speed is great and it runs like a dream,” he said. “It‘s one of my favourite machines on the floor.”
Introducing Acuity, the first hi-res, value based UV flatbed
The Acuity HD 2504 is the latest breakthrough in wide format UV digital imaging technology. It offers photographic quality printing at speeds that provide a quick return on investment. At its heart is a new imaging technology that enables each print head to produce variable size droplets as opposed to traditional fixed droplets. Droplets as fine as 6 picoliter are jetted to produce sharp, precise images with smoother transitions and halftones. Jetting larger droplets up to 42 picoliter delivers denser, more uniform solid image areas. The result is image quality usually seen at resolutions of 1200 dpi or higher.
Sean is deriving great value from the Acuity.
“The number one use for the machine, at the moment, is in producing temporary signage for our retail clients. Because it’s temporary they don’t want to pay a fortune for it. That’s where the real value of the printer comes through.”
The Acuity delivers the high quality finish while using up to 25% less ink.
“We already had machines that print onto flexible substrates. I wanted a purpose built flatbed that printed onto rigid substrates. The Acuity was the perfect choice. It prints on almost any substrate - acrylic, corflute, cardboard, steel, aluminium.”
Sean first saw the Acuity at a Sydney trade show. After inspecting it he felt sure this was the ideal next machine for his business. His employees did their inspections and agreed with Sean. What was it that helped Sean to make the final decision to purchase the Acuity? “I met the guys from Fujifilm Sericol at the show and they were great,” he said. “They understood what we needed, paid attention to everyone and every detail we needed was addressed. I was happy with the machine, but I was even happier with the guys at Fujifilm Sericol – they really impressed me.” Sean experienced a small problem when it came to installing the Acuity in his premises. He doesn’t have a wide loading bay and the Acuity wouldn’t fit through the doors. “We had to take out a large window at the front of the premises and block off a main road to crane it in. Our neighbours really loved us that day. But the Sericol guys organised the whole delivery and installation. I didn’t have to do a thing.”
Sean’s experience told him that a new printer can take a few months to begin paying for itself. The Acuity gave him a pleasant surprise. “We had the Acuity up and running within three or four weeks and paying for itself. I’d recommend the Acuity not just because it’s a great machine,” said Sean, “but pretty much because the guys at Fujifilm Sericol are a pleasure to deal with.”
See for yourself
The Acuity HD 2504 is the latest addition to the Fujifilm Sericol printer range, continuing the tradition of developing high quality products and solutions designed to meet virtually any wide format printing need.
You can see a demonstration of the Acuity HD 2504 at Fujifilm Sericol’s Digital Training and Demonstration Centre located within their head office in Kings Park, Sydney. The Inca Spyder 320 flatbed digital printer and a Mutoh ValueJet 1604W1 Roll-to-Roll Digital Dye Sublimation printer are also available for inspection.
For more information on Ricci Signs (Australia) Pty Ltd call 02 9740 5667 or visit www.riccisigns.com.au
For more information on the Acuity HD 2504, contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or visit www.fujifilmsericol.com.au
^ back to top
April 2008
Fujifilm Sericol announces agreement to distribute Mutoh Digital Textile Printers in Australia
Fujifilm Sericol Australia Pty Limited announces they are now a distributor for Mutoh’s range of digital textile inkjet printers in Australia. Fujifilm Sericol Australia’s Digital Business Manager Robert Wilson states “The introduction of the Mutoh range of Digital Textile printers compliments the recent addition of J-Teck ink and Coldenhove paper to our product range and enables us to offer a complete solution for digital textile printers.
Omnitech Graphics have been distributing Mutoh products in Oceania since 1986 and have a range of equipment for both water-based sublimation transfer and direct to fabric applications.
Russell Bates, General Manager of Omnitech Graphics expands “We’re delighted to have Fujifilm Sericol Australia as a distributor of our textile printers. They have an excellent support network and national representation”.
The agreement covers a broad range of products including the DrafStation Pro, Viper and ValueJet series of printers in dye sublimation and direct to textile versions. Fujifilm Sericol Australia’s Marketing Co-ordinator Patrick Koen adds “The ability to offer a digital textile package of high quality, high performance inks, papers, bulk feeders, machines and software is a dynamic extension of our product portfolio that aligns itself perfectly with our existing range of high performance, quality UV flatbed printers and inks systems”.
Fujifilm Sericol Australia are also proud to announce the addition of the Mutoh ValueJet 1604W1 water-based dye sublimation printer to their Digital Demonstration and Training Centre in Kings Park, Sydney.
Fujifilm Sericol Australia will distribute and support these products with their dedicated national team of technical service, applications support and colour management specialists. With a strong focus of being “Digitally Driven”, Fujifilm Sericol is committed to providing innovative and versatile wide format inkjet solutions to the graphics communication and textile industries.
For more information, please contact us.
^ back to top
February 2008
Fujifilm Sericol opens wide format inkjet showroom in Bangkok
A new showroom in Bangkok will help spearhead sales of wide format inkjet machines throughout the Asia Pacific region.
In a move set to expand Fujifilm’s presence in the wide format inkjet market in Asia Pacific, Fujifilm and their subsidiary, Fujifilm Sericol opened their Bangkok showroom on 29th January 2008. This investment will enable printers across the ASEAN region access to the latest machines and ink systems as an integral part of a graphic solutions package. It will also serve as a local showroom for Fujifilm in Thailand.
In the last two years Fujifilm has made bold moves to strengthen their position in the wide format inkjet sector with acquisitions of Sericol, Avecia and Dimatix. This integrated approach has enabled Fujifilm to partner with equipment manufacturers to develop a broad range of machines and equipment systems. These machines are suited to address the needs of a wide range of printers – from screen printing and commercial offset printing to digital print houses and photolabs. Machines on display in the Bangkok showroom have been chosen specifically for the Asia Pacific region.
Asia Pacific Director for Fujifilm Sericol, Jeff Hand explains why customers choose Fujifilm companies as partners. “What Fujifilm companies are able to offer printers is unique. Fujifilm Sericol has extensive experience in ink manufacture as well as selling wide format inkjet printers. Fujifilm companies have a spread of distributors who understand the key print technologies. Together we can help guide our customers into the new business opportunities presented by wide format inkjet. Customers expect more than just a machine. A full support & service package is a must; including engineering, colour profiling and software training. The new facility in Bangkok enables customers within the region to experience this first-hand”.
Fujifilm has made a number of investments to secure its future in digital printing. In 2005, Fujifilm acquired Sericol (UK), the market leader in the supply of UV ink for the wide format inkjet market. In 2006, Fujifilm acquired Avecia (UK), the leading manufacturer of ink dyes used in inkjet printers. Later in 2006, they acquired Dimatix (USA), the leading manufacturer of industrial inkjet printheads.
By integrating the advanced print head technologies with the sophisticated ink technologies, Fujifilm is developing high-quality imaging systems to expand its inkjet business.
^ back to top
January 2008
Fujifilm Sericol and J-Teck3 partner in Australia and New Zealand
Fujifilm Sericol Australia has acquired the rights to supply J-Teck inks in the Australian and NZ markets.
In a move set to expand Fujifilm Sericol’s involvement in the digital market in Australia and New Zealand, effective 1 February 2008 Fujifilm Sericol will acquire the J-Teck Ink and Coldenhove paper agencies from J-Teck Australia.
“The acquisition of J-Teck’s agencies is a logical one for us, and provides us with digital capabilities in the textile market. We can now offer a total supply package of digital inks, printers and paper for the textile market. This complements what we already do in the screen textile market and the digital graphics market.” says Fujifilm Sericol General Manager Mark Brown. “J-Teck Australia is an excellent business with great products and people” he adds.
J-Teck Australia’s Managing Director Wendy Bridgett explains “Fujifilm Sericol was an obvious choice for us. They have an excellent reputation, know the textile market well, and have a national sales and distribution network to support the business”. Post acquisition Wendy will be focusing on retirement and enjoying more time with her family. J-Teck Technical Manager Andrew Marrs will join Fujifilm Sericol to provide continuing support for the customers and products.
J-Teck Italy is also pleased with the deal with Sales Director Italo Mariani commenting “We are very much looking forward to working with Fujifilm Sericol Australia and building on the great work of J-Teck Australia. Fujifilm Sericol gives us a truly national sales and support throughout Australasia”
^ back to top
August 2007
Inca Spyder 320 turns Concept plans into reality
The one thing that separates Concept POP and Displays from its competitors is its constant drive to remain at the forefront of innovation. New technologies are embraced if they demonstrate they can help take the business to the next level of quality and output.
Stephen Wallis, director of Concept, knows exactly how he wants the business to be positioned in the mind of his customers and prospects. “We want to be thought of as unrivalled in the marketplace.”
“We are technology-based and use these new tools to drive our customer growth and take business to another level.”
Concept POP and Displays has been based in Fountaindale on the NSW Central Coast for 32 years. It commenced operations providing screen printing services for local businesses but has since grown to have clients in Newcastle, Sydney and nationally, supplying a full suite of indoor and outdoor signage, display and event solutions.
Had you walked around the Opera House during the 2000 Olympics you would have seen Concept-produced signage throughout the forecourt.
“The ink for that Olympics’ signage was specially produced for us by Fujifilm Sericol. We needed a special matt ink, and because of our great relationship with Fujifilm Sericol, they created it for us.”
The relationship between the two companies has recently produced another leap forward in technology when Concept installed the Inca Spyder 320 flatbed digital printer.
“I saw first hand the emerging movement of flat bed digital printing on a recent overseas trip,” explains Stephen. “After seeing the screen printing industry analysis out of Germany and it really got me thinking seriously about the technology and how it could benefit the business.”
The decision to go with Fujifilm Sericol’s Inca Spyder 320 was based on three criteria: Concept’s drive to have only the best technologies; the requirement that any new digital technology had to be compatible with their existing screen printing technologies; and their relationship with Fujifilm Sericol.
“We custom-built a temperature controlled room to house the Spyder,” explains Stephen. “Fujifilm Sericol’s application support specialists, Matthew Philp (engineer) and Liz Cerbelli (software) have been fantastic throughout the whole installation.”
The Inca Spyder 320 has opened up niche markets for Concept by allowing the company to now print directly onto almost any surface up to 30mm thick. It has improved the resolution on cardboard printing and can even print directly onto glass.
Concept generally uses the digital flat bed for shorter runs – under 255 quantity – and traditional screen printing for larger runs, though it sometimes combines the two forms for gloss varnish projects for an enhanced appearance.
Concept is actively promoting its new digital capabilities and attracting new clients. They are also providing a new trade service with trade rates to screen printers who would like to have access to the digital short run market.
“We can offer the market more than when we were traditional screen printers,” says Stephen. “As well, our partnership with Fujifilm Sericol has become one where we trial new things together. They experiment on new substrates with us. They are there to help us out.”
Concept’s planned business growth is becoming a reality. The company sees a clear way forward for future expansion and believes the Inca Spyder and Fujifilm Sericol are vital components in achieving those expansion plans.
“It’s put us in the driving seat,” says Stephen.
^ back to top
May 2007
Inca Spyder 320 puts extra sting into CV business growth
Ed Phelan had a plan in mind to grow his business. He began with a detailed due diligence process to establish what was appropriate for the needs of the business, followed by an extensive research into the latest in digital printing equipment. He found that one particular brand of printing equipment could set his company, CV Signage Solutions, on the growth course he wanted.
Ed Phelan is managing director of CV Signage Solutions, located in Banyo, a suburb of Brisbane, Queensland. The company provides total signage solutions to mid tier, multi-site retailers such as Freedom Furniture, Super Cheap Auto, Europecar and many others, and is among the top 5 signage manufacturers in the region.
The majority of the company’s output is designed and manufactured within its facilities, however one outsourced side of the business had reached considerable volume. Phelan realised there were economic benefits for his company and his clients to produce that business in-house.
But first they had to find just the right printing equipment that could deliver the results the company demanded.
“We assessed what was in the market and looked at four or five large format print options,” explained Phelan. “We found that the Fujifilm Sericol Inca Spyder 320 flatbed digital printer had the capacity to deliver the volume and quality we want.”
The Inca Spyder is a relatively new entrant in the large format digital print arena but is quickly gaining recognition for its higher standard of design and engineering. The Spyder can print directly onto the widest range of flexible and rigid substrates, up to 30mm thick and 40kg in weight, and delivers the most precise registration in its class.
The Inca Spyder’s impressive credentials matched Phelan’s requirements. “I first inspected the Spyder at a trade fair and that’s where I met (Fujifilm Sericol’s) Robert Wilson. Robert has been fantastic throughout and really helped us every step of the way. I inspected the machine further at Fujifilm Sericol headquarters in Sydney and basically made up my mind.”
The Inca Spyder has enabled CV Signage Solutions to provide clients with a faster turnaround for large format work and the business is enjoying the financial benefits.
“In only a short time we are already seeing the benefits of Spyder”, said Phelan. “The quality of service provided by Fujifilm Sericol during the installation process was excellent and we were very pleased in the way they worked with us. Their management of the installation and the training afterwards were above and beyond the call of duty.”
CV Signage Solutions needed a refit to house the new Inca Spyder – they were also installing another, independent piece of equipment at the same time – and there was potential for major disruption to business. Thankfully, that didn’t happen.
“Matt and Liz from Fujifilm Sericol, who managed the installation process, helped us integrate the software with our other applications”, said Phelan. “Fujifilm Sericol is someone we would want to have an ongoing business relationship with. Their quality across the board is second to none.”
Phelan says the formula for driving CV Signage Solutions business growth is in great customer service, quality product and value for money. Fujifilm Sericol’s Inca Spyder is an important factor in all three drivers of that growth formula.
^ back to top
May 2007
Inca Digital launches the Inca Onset: the world’s fastest digital UV flatbed printer
A breakthrough in digital printing technology that redefines wide format speed and productivity
New Inca Onset sets new levels of digital production throughput at 500 sqm/hr
High productivity opens up new opportunities within display and commercial print markets
30th April 2007– Inca Digital Printers announces the launch of the Inca Onset, a revolutionary breakthrough in large format UV digital flatbed printing. Handling print sizes up to 3.2 x 1.5m (10.5x 5 ft) and achieving production throughput of 500 sq m/hr (5382 sq ft /hr), the automated Inca Onset delivers an amazing 100+ full bed sheets an hour.
“The Onset represents a major advance in inkjet print production and has been engineered from the ground up to achieve new levels of performance,” says Bill Baxter, Managing Director at Inca Digital. “Its design draws on our vast experience of jetting inks and includes some of the core technologies we have developed to produce the Columbia Turbo and Spyder presses that already lead the wide format display market in speed and quality. Onset’s design also draws on our experience in developing the high-speed, single-pass FastJet press specifically developed for the corrugated market.
”The Inca Onset’s speed and quality is delivered by a massive array of 576 Spectra printheads addressing a total of 73,728 inkjet nozzles in easy plug-in Inca print bars, supported by innovative head alignment systems. Inkjet printer quality is determined by inkjet nozzle performance and, while output from other printers can be affected by occasional nozzle failure, the Inca Onset has been designed with a high level of fault tolerance to ensure maximum print quality. “In demanding and high-volume production environments it is important to achieve sustainable quality and the Onset features the highest level of nozzle redundancy to ensure the best sustained performance,” explains Bill Baxter.
For all its sophistication, the Inca Onset is extremely easy to operate by one operator with a minimal 20 minute set up time at the start of each day. It includes a fully automatic load/unload system as standard, however it is designed to allow users to move to manual mode within seconds if required for immediate fast proofing or production of single prints.
Edge-to-edge printing allows images to be printed to bleed on substrates up to 10 mm thick and up to 10 kg at full speed, providing enormous versatility in terms of what can be printed as well as the ability to proof a job on the material on which it will finally be produced.
Fujifilm Sericol, Inca’s long term worldwide distribution partner, sees the Inca Onset as the next generation of digital printing for a wide range of print applications, not only within the high growth, large format display market, but also within the wider commercial print market currently served by extra large format offset presses.
Because of its exceptional speed and minimal set up time, the Inca Onset will redefine cost effective print run lengths previously associated with digital printing. Jerry Avis, International Strategy and Business Development Director of Fujifilm Sericol, considers the Inca Onset to be an important step change for the print industry. “The market is seeking improved quality alongside faster production speeds and turnaround times and it is this need that has driven development of the Onset in partnership with Inca. The Inca Onset will transform UV digital flatbed inkjet printing speed, quality and finish. The result is a machine that is so fast that it not only delivers a highly competitive solution for screen printers but, for the first time, provides a highly competitive alternative to offset presses, offering a flexible and cost effective alternative for up to 400 finished sheets.”
Fujifilm Sericol’s vast experience in innovative UV digital ink formulations, and understanding of the needs of the market has been central to the development of the Onset. Simultaneously, Fujifilm Sericol has been developing a new range of its industry leading Uvijet UV digital ink for use in the Inca Onset. Using patented Micro-V dispersion technology, the Uvijet UV digital inks for Inca Onset are formulated with automotive grade pigments that deliver exceptional density to create vibrant, durable, light-fast colours and, for the first time, the system can offer either a satin or gloss finish. Uvijet inks also provide superior adhesion to many different materials, including paper and board, wood, flexible and rigid plastics, and metal.
With the addition of the Inca Onset, Inca now offers a range of eight digital UV inkjet printers in a choice of formats, speeds and options. The product range enables companies to select the Inca machine that is most suited to their specific requirements. The first Onset printer will be installed at a UK company within the next few weeks and commercial shipments will begin late summer.
^ back to top
April 2007
Fujifilm announces a comprehensive wide format digital printing initiative
Fujifilm Corporation (President and CEO: Shigetaka Komori, hereinafter Fujifilm) announced today a comprehensive new initiative aimed at providing its customers with the means to produce high quality wide format digital graphics for a variety of applications.
Fujifilm is already one of the world’s largest suppliers to the digital printing industry. This new initiative combines the company’s proven expertise and experience to deliver a family of wide format digital products and business solutions designed to meet virtually any wide format printing need.
“Fujifilm has a long history as a leading supplier within both the graphics arts and digital imaging industries,” said Nobuaki Inoue, Corporate Vice President, General Manager, Fujifilm Graphic Systems Business Division. “Our commitment to developing high quality products and solutions for the wide format digital graphics printing sector mirrors the direction our industry and our customers are headed.”
Demand for digital is growing among all segments of the printing industry. The retail value of wide format digital graphic revenues, including ink, media, and hardware, are projected to reach $9.4 billion by 2008. “Fujifilm intends to become a market leader by offering fully integrated wide format digital printing solutions,” said Inoue. “We will provide our customers with the right digital printing products to meet market demands and our customer’s specific needs.”
Fujifilm’s wide format digital product offerings will encompass a line-up of branded wide format digital printers, related consumables and services. Printers will be sourced through trusted OEM partners and developed to Fujifilm specifications. The digital inks will be formulated and manufactured by Fujifilm Sericol, a subsidiary of Fujifilm acquired in 2005. Fujifilm’s graphic arts subsidiaries in the USA and Canada will provide sales, distribution, and technical support.
The backbone of Fujifilm’s strategy is a unique integrated wide format digital printing solutions approach. This includes printers, inks, other consumables and service & technical support. The wide format digital printer offerings range from value-based solvent roll-to-roll and high resolution, mid range UV flatbed printers, to the world’s fastest and most productive UV flatbed presses. Solvent and UV inks have been specifically formulated for each printer platform to provide optimal reproducibility, adhesion, color vibrancy and durability on a wide range of substrates. Fujifilm will support these products with a dedicated team of technical service, applications support, color management and training specialists. Fujifilm also has one of the industry’s largest distribution and logistics networks. This comprehensive support package will be combined with innovative business partnering programs, all designed to improve their customers’ efficiency and profitability.
A media campaign in numerous industry publications will publicize the program. The advertising campaign will feature the slogan, “Digitally Driven”, which conveys Fujifilm’s complete commitment to the wide format digital printing market. The launch of this initiative is being supported in the US and Canada through the joint resources of Fujifilm Graphics Systems USA, Fujifilm Canada and Fujifilm Sericol USA.
About Fujifilm
Fujifilm Group is a leading global provider of imaging, information and document-related products and services, and a pioneer of a wide range of digital systems. It had global revenues of Yen2.667 trillion (US$22.8 billion, at the rate of Yen117=US$1) in the year ended March 31, 2006 and 75,845 employees worldwide. Its Imaging Solutions segment includes digital cameras, color film as well as photofinishing equipment/services. Flat panel display materials, medical imaging, graphic arts and other businesses constitute its Information Solutions segment, and digital color copiers and other office products/services comprise the Document Solutions segment. Through development and selective application of its advanced digital, network, image processing, and other proprietary technologies, the Fujifilm Group has expanded from its original field of silver-halide photographic films into diverse new business fields. As a global company with a reputation for the highest quality and reliability, Fujifilm will use leading-edge, proprietary technologies to provide top-quality products and services that contribute to the advancement of culture, science, technology and industry, as well as improved health and environmental protection in society. More information about Fujifilm (NASDAQ:FUJI) is available at http://www.fujifilm.com/.
Fujifilm Sericol USA Inc., headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, is a leading global manufacturer of printing inks with more than 50 years of formulation experience. With operations in more than 15 countries, Fujifilm Sericol is a customer-focused company and a leader in the development of UV inks for the screen printing, narrow web and large format digital printing industries. The company takes pride in its reputation for pioneering new products and technologies, and setting the industry standard for technical service and customer support.
More information about Fujifilm Sericol is available at http://www.fujifilmsericol.com.
^ back to top
May 2006
Fujifilm Sericol acquires new agency
Groenlund Machine Works Ltd are proud to announce that Fujifilm Sericol Australia have been appointed as the sole agent for their Dane Products into the Australian and New Zealand markets.
The Dane line of products consists of a full range of inline wash out, emulsion coating, and automatic reclaim units. The system is fully modular allowing either a single unit, or fully automatic frame processing line to be installed.
Paul Budgen, Fujifilm Sericol Australia’s Marketing Manager says, “It’s great to be representing such a quality product within the Australian Screen Printing Market. Dane machinery share the same philosophy of providing turn key solutions to customers which fits nicely amongst our product portfolio”
Dane machinery is now available to the Australian Market and for further information, please contact Paul Budgen, Marketing Manager Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 02 8825 2700.
^ back to top
May 2006
The future of Textile Printing – Permaset Aqua
Permaset, the name itself is renowned within the textile printing industry for providing quality and consistent prints time and time again. “To improve on a product which is already so widely accepted has taken 2 years of research and development, “ says David Stuart, Colormaker Industries.
These developments represent the biggest change to Permaset in 40 years. With over 40 years of manufacturing experience, Permaset is recognized as the premium product used by textile printers all over Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.
From 1st June 2006, Fujifilm Sericol will be launching the Permaset Aqua range into the market replacing the original Permaset range. Why the change? How can we improve upon a product already so widely used by textile printers?
“We wanted to develop a product with inter-mixable capabilities to give a wider colour palette”, says Phil Reynolds, Colormaker Industries. “Combining a wider colour palette with a solvent free formula was a challenging job and has now become a reality”.
By using advanced polymer technology, combined with the purest pigments, Permaset Aqua results in an environmentally friendly, easy to use ink that provides exceptional durability, without compromising a superior soft handle.
The 100 % solvent free, environmentally friendly formula provides pigments that are rich in coverage are intense and produce exceptional colour yield. The resilient resin base holds fast during rub, wash or dry clean while having virtually no feel on fabrics.
Permaset Aqua performs at a higher standard with enhanced screen stability and an extended screen open time, to produce cleaner results, longer.
Ideal for use on Cotton, Polyester, Silk and most Synthetic fabrics.
Permaset Aqua is low odour and can be cleaned up easily with water.
A feature of the NEW Aqua product is the cleanliness, intensity and simplicity of the colour range. The colours have been formulated right around the edge of the colour palette. This means that the reduced colour set in both Standard and Super Cover (12 standard colours + black & 2 whites) can be used to blend colours never before achievable with any Permaset range.
Permaset Aqua offers:
• 100% Solvent Free Ink System – Environmentally friendly formula using water based technology
• Unsurpassed softness, handle and adhesion
• Enhanced screen stability
• Improved rub, wash and dry clean resistance
• Simplified product range with 100% intermixable capabilities never before achieved with any Permaset Range
• Able to be printed through a wider range of mesh counts
• Low odour
The Permaset Aqua Range is available in 1, 4 and 15 ltr pack sizes and will now provide the most comprehensive and versatile water based textile ink system ever offered to the Textile Screen Printing market.
“Permaset Aqua is a perfect compliment to the Permatone CO Range already offered to our Customers”, says Rob Penman, Fujifilm Sericol. “Levering off the technology of Permatone CO, Colormaker Industries have created Permaset Aqua with a new technology of resins providing never before seen screen stability with water based Inks” adds Penman.
For more information on the new Permaset Aqua or Permatone CO Range of products, please contact Fujifilm Sericol Australia on 1300 650 504 or your local Fujifilm Sericol Representative.
^ back to top
New range of water-based inks
Fujifilm Sericol, in conjunction with Australian manufacturers Colormaker Industries, has launched a new water based textile ink range, Permaset Texiscreen Permatone CO.
Over the years there was a strong move to Plastisols and away from so called water based inks, which in many cases contained up to 50 per cent white spirits, however there has now been a worldwide shift back to water based products.
Sericol says that Permatone CO is 100 per cent solvent free and yet demonstrates a combination of properties unheard of even with “normal” textile inks. According to the company, the first, and most obvious benefit of the new product is the low odour. Add to this the long open time on the screen and printing on hot days is now easier and safer.
Typically, a change from “traditional” (or solvent containing) to solvent free systems yielded a loss in colour intensity, meaning the choice was either environmental OH&S responsibility or colour yield. These were mutually exclusive objectives, however, says Sericol, this new product achieves unsurpassed colour yield and brightness through clever formulating and a rigorous pigment selection process.
Another major improvement, claims the company, is the softness of handle, producing excellent drape and handle properties due to the exclusive adoption of world leading polymer technology. Related to this but less obvious is outstanding adhesion, even to synthetic and stretch fabrics.
Wash and wearability
Typically, a soft print displays lower wash resistance, showing significant deterioration, even after one or two washes. Conversely, a durable print typically feels quite stiff, which is uncomfortable to wear. Colormaker Industries has exclusive access to a polymer that is both soft and incredibly strong, claiming that prints on cotton lycra have been tested to 30 commercial wash cycles at 65°C, a test so severe that it caused significant fibre breakdown in the unprinted area; the printed area however was actually protected by the polymer and exhibited virtually zero change. This means excellent adhesion on a full range of synthetics and stretch fabrics without additives.
Colour
For light fastness all pigments have been through a rigorous selection process and, according to Sericol, rate a minimum of six on the Blue Wool Scale. Pigments/colours are selected to be on the edge of the colour wheel, which gives maximum cleanliness and brightness, so if “dirtying off ” is required, the end user can do that, but Sericol maintains the Permatone range offers the maximum gamut of colours to be mixed from smallest range.
Pigment size
Pigment particle size was also considered during the evaluation process. By going to one micron, and indeed sub-micron particle size, the feel is instantly improved. The finer particle size also confers further commercial benefit; finer particles can fit through a finer mesh screen, while the increased colour yield allows lower ink lay-down to achieve the same colour. This results in better ink mileage (lower cost) and again, softer print. Also, the lower ink lay-down means less ink to dry out, so faster throughput in drying tunnel and hence greater productivity. Also, according to Sericol, recent tests show formaldehyde levels to be well below Okotex requirements for Class 1, the most stringent requirements for baby wear.
Two years in development
Texiscreen Permatone CO has been developed over two years, in conjunction with a leading Sydney meterage printer, and more recently excellent trials were completed with two Perth companies. The Sydney company has produced around $2 million of finished fabric using the ink.
With the first Perth printer, The Fabric Printer, plastisols were replaced with Permatone on a seven-colour job on medium-dark fabric.
‘To be honest I was startled’, said The Fabric Printer’s James Carter. ‘It was an unfair test but we managed to get it very close to the finish desired on the dark fabric.’
The second printer, Blue Print Screen Art, a dedicated plastisol user, has also seen the benefits of the Permatone system. ‘We’re always looking for ways to improve our products and services, said director Sean Bell. ‘The adhesion qualities are also very impressive for a water based ink and once we started using it in production we also found the viscosity of the ink very good in the automatic machine as well as manual presses. The “wet on wet” ability is definitely the best I have seen in either water based or plastisol inks.’
For further information on Texiscreen Permatone CO contact Fujifilm Sericol Customer Service Hotline on Tel 1300 650 504 or your local Fujifilm Sericol Australia branch.
^ back to top
February 2006
INCA annouces expansion of Spyder models
In the biggest ever expansion of a single product range Inca Digital Printers is launching additional new models in the Spyder 320 series, including a new four-colour model, a six-colour printer and a Spyder with white ink option. At the same time Inca is launching a new version of their Spyder Run software that will deliver an exceptional top speed of 80 sq metres an hour, with a production speed of 65 sq metres an hour. The new software delivers an instant speed upgrade and will be retrofitted to existing Spyder 320 printers in the field.
“All of the new Inca Spyder models have been developed in direct response to requests from customers, in particular digital houses and photolabs,” says director of marketing, Heather Kendle. “One of the major changes is our modular design, which enables customers to adapt. The modular approach allows customers to modify the specification of their Inca Spyder printer to suit their changing business needs or growth.”
The machines benefit from the excellent quality of Fujifilm Sericol’s UV Uvijet inks and have the technical support and after-sales care of both Inca and Fujifilm Sericol, the worldwide distributor for Inca’s flatbed printers.
NEW SPYDER 320-e
The new Spyder 320-e is designed to appeal to a wider range of companies. Like all the other Inca Spyder users, printers using the Spyder 320-e will benefit from the features that have made the original Spyder 320 so popular, such as the 3.2 x 1.6 metre bed, small footprint, highly accurate pin registration plus sharp image resolution and crisp text. “In essence – high quality at medium output speeds with greater flexibility to upgrade to any higher specification Spyder variant,” says Heather Kendle, “With a lower purchase price this new Inca Spyder 320-e version opens the doors to printers with a smaller budget but who want to enter the high-quality flatbed printer sector.”
The Inca Spyder 320-e’s very competitive price has been achieved by reducing the speed specification, although in every other way this printer offers the same features as the standard model. In addition, customers can easily upgrade their Inca Spyder 320-e on-site to the original specification Spyder 320 or a Spyder 320+ with white or six colours.
NEW SPYDER 320+
The Spyder 320+ model offers a modular IncaPrint carriage with either white or six colours (light magenta and light cyan), in addition to the CMYK set. This new six-colour printer is designed for closer viewing output where there is a requirement to reproduce flesh tones with a flawless appearance, and smoother light colours and graduations.
Inca’s excellent registration system has allowed them to develop the Inca Spyder 320+ white variant with the capability of printing white ink both before or after printing the CMYK set. The user makes this decision at the RIP stage.
“The Spyder 320 has been Inca’s best ever selling flatbed printer and in November was responsible for the company’s largest number of sales in any one month during its five year history,” continues Heather Kendle. “There are now Inca Spyder 320s in operation in more than 12 countries, including the USA, Australia, Sweden, Canada, UK and France. At least ten of these customers already had an Inca printer and saw Spyder giving them the potential to enter new digital markets such as those that require close-up viewing, including ‘industrial’ sectors such as gaming and vending machines, and products fabricated from metals and plastics.
Heather Kendle concludes “The Spyder 320 has been a phenomenal success since its launch at Fespa 2005 with its combination of size, quality, output and price. It became obvious from customer comments and market demand that this was a model to expand and give printers greater choice, while still benefiting from the core qualities that have made the Inca Spyder 320 so significant to the flatbed inkjet industry.”
For more information on INCA Machines, please contact Fujifilm Sericol's Digital Business Manager, Robert Wilson on +61 417 237 325 or email robert.wilson@fujifilmsericol.com
^ back to top
|
