minimising the need for human intervention. This can help to resolve the shortage of skilful operators in the industry.” To ensure PSPs benefit from all this Cano says it is important to update their production set-up with new solutions. Cano explains modern technology, such as advanced inkjet printing systems, not only enhances productivity but also allows PSPs to stay competitive in a dynamic market, offering a broader range of services and meeting sustainability goals. “In an industry where innovation is key, staying current with equipment upgrades is essential for maintaining a competitive edge and meeting the diverse needs of clients,” Cano says. On this, Cano highlights the latest solution from Screen in the form of the new Truepress JET 560HDX, a high-speed, rollfed digital inkjet press that he says stands as a “revolutionary platform”, pushing the boundaries of innovation in the printing landscape. The new press leverages the power of its newly developed Truepress ink SC2, a high-density inkset that enables direct printing on offset-coated papers without the need for surface pre-treatment. The Truepress JET 560HDX features a high-efficiency drying unit with support for 560mm paper widths. Cano says the drying system makes use of smart zones to optimise energy consumption based on ink coverage, saving energy and mitigating downstream effects on paper drying. It also features new inkjet head technology, working seamlessly in conjunction with the high-pigment load SC2 ink, which the manufacturer says results in less downtime and waste ink, as well as a wide gamut of printing capabilities. Take Advantage Offering further insight into this sector, Trevor Maloney, product marketing manager at Kyocera Document Solutions UK, says while most companies are trying to make the high-volume printing of the past work, they are losing out on lucrative, unlocking avenues for print providers to reach new markets and drive growth,” Rising explains, adding: “From book publishers to retail businesses looking to upgrade their point-of-sale marketing, inkjet offers a range of print materials that are bespoke and highly personalised.” With this, Rising draws attention to some of the latest solutions from Canon. In particular, he highlights varioPRINT iX-series, saying this harnesses iQuariusIX ink and printing technology to deliver high output quality. In addition, the recent R4.3 software release is an automatic image quality verification system, which he says scans every sheet to check the quality and dynamically makes system adjustments as needed. On top of this, its automatic customer media validation process (MVP) easily sets up new media with the support of a wizard, with improved detection of potential multisheet feeds in the paper input module (PIM), which diverts detected sheets to the sentry bin. Rising goes on to say that this series also delivers workflow benefits with the PRISMAsync controller, such as SMB hot-folder support, subset support via JDF, media handling for two-sided media with different front/back treatment, and improved encrypted disk support. Aside from this, Canon also offers continuous-feed inkjet printers, such as the ColorStream 8000 and ProStream 3000. Built on a decade of development, Rising says the ColorStream 8000 Series is the most automated ColorStream ever, minimising the need for hands-on support to exceed customer expectations. “Thanks to its stunning print quality, high resolutions of up to 1200 x 720dpi and speeds of up to 160m/min, the ColorStream 8000 series brings new revenue streams for printers by diversifying their applications,” Rising says. Wider Use of Inkjet Also in this sector is Screen Europe, whose marketing director, Juan Cano, says that more businesses are shifting towards inkjet print for its flexibility, speed, and improved print quality. He goes on to say that inkjet is being increasingly utilised beyond traditional applications such as commercial printing, direct mail, and labels, extending into areas like packaging, textiles, and industrial printing. “This is being driven by several factors” Cano explains, continuing: “Firstly, with a growing focus on sustainability, energy reduction, and low emissions, inkjet printing offers a lower environmental impact, and uses planet-friendly inks onto substrates that align with their sustainability goals. “Then there are advancements in AI-driven quality control and setting adjustments mark the next frontier in elevating printing production to new heights. In addition, the print industry is witnessing a notable trend as digital inkjet printing promotes connectivity, increasing productivity, enabling automation, and facilitating remote management for intelligent, collaborative, and data-driven print solutions. “Finally, from print to finishing, 4.0 trends enable streamlined digitally driven workflows, significantly reducing errors and ▲ Canon says its varioPRINT iX-series uses iQuariusIX ink and print technology to deliver high output quality As more printers start to notice the benefits of inkjet, they will continue to transition from offset and liquid toner and the sector will continue to grow 78 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2024 - Issue 348 Digital inkjet machines can print on a range of substrates such as heavyweight paper, coated, gloss, silk, and matt materials Factoid DIGITAL INKJET PRINTING
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