Xeikon has developed a specific
solution for printers looking to enhance and increase their range of labels. It
is the unique combination of the Xeikon X-800 workflow and the PantherCure UV
ink that can generate a tactile layer, responsible for a so called “haptic
effect” in print. Printers can easily create designer labels with enhanced
tactility, textures and a luxury feel. Xeikon’s new haptic printing process not
only boosts and expands the range of possible applications for high-end label
markets, it helps make significant time savings by avoiding any modifications
to the prepress files. Tactile effects on labels are greatly appreciated by the
beer, beverage, food, and Health & Beauty markets.
Jeroen Van Bauwel, Director
Product Management, says, “The technology generating the tactile and textured
layer is embedded in the Panther’s X-800 workflow. It is the brand owners and
designers who define the structure, shape and form of the design. When the file
is received, the workflow automatically recognizes the elements of the design
and generates the information required to drive the print head – that’s what
creates the haptic effect in print on the end product.”
Increasing uptime
In order to further optimize the
workflow on the Panther, Xeikon has developed a specific solution, embedded in
the X-800 workflow: an automated optimization of the white ink layer.
The production of labels on
clear facestocks (e.g. premium beer or Health & Beauty labels) comes with
unique challenges. An opaque white is required to make the design standout,
this may result however in varying ink layer thicknesses across the web. The
uneven thickness of the ink layer will generate a telescoping effect on the
printed rolls. In the past, press operators have overcome this by printing
smaller rolls, resulting in more frequent roll changes and extra waste in
material and time. Some printers found a solution in spending extra time in
prepress to reduce the amount of white. This time-consuming prepress work can
now be handled in a fully automated way by the X-800 digital front-end without
intervention at any stage in the production process. The X-800 automatically
reduces the white layer. The extent of reduction will depend on the colors that
come on top of it. The result is an increase in uptime during the manufacturing
process – both in printing and converting – as printers can run larger rolls.
In addition, PSP’s save on cost, not only because of the reduced amount of
white ink, but also because of the reduction of waste.
Van Bauwel concludes, “Xeikon
continues to work towards excellence to enhance every facet of its portfolio.
We continue to look for opportunities to make savings on costs and time. By
improving each small step of the process, we can make a big difference to the
overall production process and reduce manufacturing costs. Achieving haptic
effects in print through the unique capabilities of our X-800 workflow and ink optimization
not only boosts and increases the range of possible applications but allows
printers to streamline their operations.”
