Mimaki has used Fespa Digital to launch a latex printer, the first non-HP printer to incorporate the technology. The Mimaki newcomer, part of a new JV400 series of printers, is also the first latex machine to incorporate a white ink. It comes in two formats: as the JV400-130LX (1,361mm width) and JV400-160LX (1,610mm width). The other two new JV400 series machines are the JV400-130SUV and JV400-160SUV, which combine solvent and UV inks. All the above should be available this spring.
HP, which was showing the latest in its series of latex printers at Fespa Digital in the shape of the new L28500 and L26500, responded to Mimaki’s latex printer launch with VP/general manager graphics solutions business, image and printing, Manel Martinez saying it is “an endorsement of the technology”. Asked about the white ink capability and the likelihood of HP following suit, he added: “Wherever we see a need for white we’ll develop a solution.”
The JV400-130/160LX supports six colours plus white and can be used with substrates like transparent PET, window decoration, shatterproof window film etc. It is equipped with Mimaki’s MCT (Mimaki Circulation Technology) ink circulation system that prevents pigment sedimentation for stable ink dispersion and a reduced need for manual ink cartridge circulation processes.
Mimaki latex inks are fast-drying - the drying process supported by three heaters integrated into the printing system (pre, print and post heaters) as well as drying fans that ensure products are ready for processing and finishing as they exit the printer. A low curing temperature of 60 degrees C or below also enables printing on a wide range of heat-sensitive materials.
Minimum dot size is four picoliters and the ability to use variable sized ink dots should mean smooth gradations. Print speed is up to 18m2/hr. The JV400-130/160LX also comes with 600ml ink packs, which are set in eco-cases.
The JV400-130/160SUV prints in four colours (CMYK), also at speeds up to 18m2/hr. It combines the flexibility of solvent with the durability of UV-cured inks using newly developed Mimaki inks. In the printing process, the solvent component is absorbed by the ink-receiving layer of the media and the pigment is settled into the media. Printed ink is then cured with a UV process for a smooth, glossy appearance, which simulates coating, yet maintains the bright colours expected of a solvent printer.
All the models in the JV400 family use Mimaki’s RasterLink6 Rip that allows the deposition of three layers of ink in one pass, including a base layer of white ink for printers that support white ink.
www.mimakieurope.com