one unit, the footprint is minimised, saving valuable floor space,” Gregory says, adding: “This also aids workflow, with Mimaki’s printer/cutters automating many of the manual tasks found on alternative technologies, such as applying the correct pinch roller pressure for each part of the print and cut process. “Furthermore, Mimaki’s integrated print and cut models offer improved accuracy and creativity, with precise alignment of the cutting paths to the print job ensured through the device’s optical registration mark detection. With their unique die-cut capabilities, in addition to kiss-cutting selfadhesive materials, Mimaki’s print and cut models can also die-cut the backing sheet, allowing sign-makers to deliver stacks of stickers, rather than relying on the end customer peeling them off a sheet. “Finally, investing in an integrated print and cut device can be financially beneficial, with integrated machines typically costing less than a separate printer and cutter would. While for some businesses, the productivity benefits of using a dedicated printer alongside a vinyl cutter outweigh the advantages of an integrated device, with Mimaki’s high production integrated printer/cutters the potential output volume can still allow significant amounts of work to be produced, with a lower capital investment.” Referring back to the CJV330-160, this is one of two integrated printer/cutters in the 330 Series, with the other being the UCJV330-160. Both are 1.6m models and deliver high production for users. The CJV330-160 is a solvent machine while the new UCJV330-160, which launched at Sign & Digital UK 2024 in February, uses the latest LED UV technology to print to a range of materials with instantly dry ink. Gregory goes as far as describing the UCJV330-160 as a “production powerhouse”, with the ability to deliver high quality stickers and labels, as well as printing onto a backlit fabric to make a spectacular illuminated lightbox. “With the option to run clear ink, the UCJV330-160 is also a highly creative solution, with 2.5D printing capabilities that add texture to prints,” Gregory says, adding: “It also excels at printing onto clear or coloured substrates, thanks to its bright, white ink. “As the inks cure instantly, it’s the ideal solution for when time is of the essence, with finishing and shipping possible immediately after printing, making it a boon for busy print production setups.” Hybrid Services and Mimaki also offer the existing Mimaki CJV150 printer/cutter, with this machine being used by all manner of companies to produce work. One such business is Stripes & Graphics, which says its investment in the device at the end of 2020 has allowed it to develop new product lines, expand its team, and attract new customers. “We’d previously bought in our print requirement, but as the business grew, we needed to ensure we gained tighter control of our supplies,” says Sean Beeston of Stripes & Graphics, adding: “The Mimaki has been central to our growth as, throughout the pandemic, we were able to offer a wider variety of products that meet the needs of new and existing clients. “Aside from the fact we can offer a wider product range, we’re saving around £4-5,000 a month by producing digital print on the Mimaki ourselves.” Maximise Profit Also in attendance at the recent Sign & Digital UK 2024 at the NEC was Quality Print Services (QPS), a specialist in providing wide-format print solutions to the market. Visitors to the QPS stand in February were able to view several solutions from partner manufacturer ColorJet, including one hybrid machine that stood out in particular. Created by ColorJet, the Vulcan Hybrid X is a range of three printers, all of which are billed as two-in-one printers that “maximise profit” for the user. Each machine in the ▼Based on UV technology, the new Mimaki UCJV330-160 was launched in the UK in February by Hybrid Services 51 Issue 252 - April / May 2024 email: news@signlink.co.uk HYBRID MACHINES Fujifilm’s Acuity Prime flatbed press can print on up to four pieces of rigid media at the same time Factoid range runs as both a flatbed and roll-toroll printer, with the ability to print on rigid substrates including ACP, foam, board, flute board, glass, ceramic tiles, and wood, as well as a range of flexible materials. As such, the manufacturer says that these attributes make the machines ideal for use in a whole host of signage and related projects. All three models in the Vulcan Hybrid X range are similar in terms of technical specifications and only differ in terms of colour selection and printhead arrangement. The V2001Y can print in CMYK/LC/LM+WX with two to six Kyocera printheads. The V2001R5 offers printing in CMYK/LC/LM+W+V with two to nine Ricoh 5 printheads. Finally, the V2001R6 model also offers CMYK/LC/LM+W+V with two to nine Rioch 6 printheads. “Explicitly designed to satisfy the multipurpose needs of processing enterprises, Vulcan Hybrid X is a 2m, high-speed printer that delivers highly precise results in no time,” ColorJet says, adding: “The machine can be used as both flatbed and roll-to-roll printers and boosts business growth with a higher return on investment.” To sum up, there is no shortage of choice when it comes to hybrid printing machines with a wide range of options on offer to the market and more machines becoming available all the time. We are almost certain to see further developments in hybrid machines when the doors to drupa 2024 open in late May, with manufacturers from around the world gathering to show off their latest solutions. Given the many advantages these machines offer to users – from cost savings to more floor space – it is pretty safe to say interest in the technology, both new and existing, will continue to increase.
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