Nilpeter in Denmark and UK-based FFEI have signed a development and distribution agreement, focused initially on the launch of a modular digital print solution for labels and narrow web packaging using four-colour process UV inkjet technology.
The solution, called Caslon, has its world première during LabelExpo in Brussels. The first commercially available product will be in 330mm and 420mm web widths, with 508mm and 559mm available later.
Designed jointly by Nilpeter and FFEI, Caslon is based on an innovative systems approach from FFEI, drawing on the company's extensive software, colour management and imaging experience.
In addition to integration of Nilpeter and FFEI technologies, Caslon utilises the latest 1001 printheads from Xaar. Nilpeter says the combination promises to set new standards for digital printing in terms of productivity and flexibility in combination print processes. The end result is fast, on-demand delivery of high quality print on a wide variety of substrates.
The unit has been developed to meet the high demands of today's industrial print environment. Focus has been given to robust design, which minimises service and maintenance interventions, ensuring less press downtime.
Lars Eriksen, president and CEO of Nilpeter says, "Our objective with the design was to provide a solution which can augment current pressroom capabilities, rather than need a separate printing environment and production workflow, which is required by most competitive digital solutions".
Being modular in design, Caslon can be integrated into Nilpeter's conventional flexo press lines or it can function as a stand alone roll-to-roll system. In the former configuration, Caslon's speed matches that of conventional units so, for example, four-colour versioning of flexo printed labels or the addition of PMS colours to digital labels are both possible. Also, Caslon's output can benefit from all of Nilpeter's in-line, value- added options such as hot/cold foil, laminating, die-cutting, embossing, punching, and sheeting.
Andy Cook, managing director of FFEI says, "Increasingly, many consumer brands are using limited special offers and short-term marketing initiatives, which drives label and packaging manufacturers to look for alternative production methods. Caslon makes shorter runs viable as part of a company's existing workflow, combining high speed variable-data flexibility with the quality required by the most discerning brand manager."
