At drupa 2012, Domino Printing Sciences will demonstrate its next generation four colour N600i digital ink jet label press with its enhanced package of upgraded i-Tech intelligent Technology smart features to maximise production efficiencies. The N600i digital colour press combines print speed approaching that of flexo with the flexibility of digital printing to deliver improved profitability and a reduction in production costs.
The UV curable N600i digital label press offers a native 600dpi print resolution as well as up to four greyscale levels and utilises one of the smallest drop sizes (6pl) to deliver the highest quality output onto a range of coated paper and plastic label stocks. This makes the N600i particularly suited to variable, localised label applications including language changes, personalisation as well as special promotional packaging initiatives.
Operating at speeds up to 75 metres (246ft) per minute, the N600i redefines the range of production work a label printer can consider for printing digitally. In addition to offering fast change-over and short run length options traditionally associated with digital technology, its ability to print up to 1,500m²/hr (16,000ft²/hr) makes long production runs cost effective.
The new N600i digital label press on display at drupa 2012 has been enhanced by a host of i-Tech intelligent Technology smart features giving a superior solution for customers. These unique automated functions have been designed specifically to minimise or even eliminate the need for engineering intervention and make routine operator functions as fast, simple and intuitive as possible, thereby addressing the growing demand for the highest levels of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
“The design of the N600i combines a deep and long established understanding of ink jet technology with the need to address the increasing challenges presented by brand owners,” says Philip Easton, Director of Domino’s Digital Printing Solutions. “Not only do they want to achieve more direct, localised and personalised communication with their customers, they are also looking to achieve efficiency savings, whether through greater production efficiencies or a reduction in stock inventories and waste.”
Integral with the N600i is Domino’s i-Tech CleanCap automated cleaning and capping station which automates print head cleaning and eliminates the need for regular manual intervention. Further reducing maintenance downtime, its ActiFlow ink circulating system ensures that the ink is always circulating around the print head even when not in production, ensuring optimal print quality when production re-commences. In addition, its unique micro-motor StitchLink controller technology allows for precise head alignment resulting in a perfect stitch across the print width.
“The N600i is an excellent fit between the capabilities of digital printing and the underlying requirements of the brand owner, adds Philip Easton.
“Our objectives in the development of our original N-Series technology has been to perfect the flexibility of digital with leading edge productivity and low cost of operation, and our latest generation N600i is the culmination of our commitment to deliver a refined, workable solution to market.”
The N600i is available in a reel-to-reel configuration while its modular frame allows for future scalability. It is integrated with the latest EskoArtwork digital front end for seamless integration into existing customer workflow solutions.
