Launched earlier this month, the eight-channel (CMYK plus double white and double varnish) Azon Matrix R series offers UV-LED inkjet printing across three bed size options: 0.8x1.6m, 1.6x2.5m and 1.6x3.2m.

The machines can print onto substrates up to 250mm in height and can handle heavy materials weighing up to 100kg for indoor, outdoor and industrial applications.

Compatible materials include ABS, polycarbonate, TPU, PVC, wood, stone, glass, canvas, ceramic and aluminium while the kit additionally covers ADA and Braille printing and can print onto cylindrical objects.

The Matrix R machines can print at speeds of up to 25.8sqm/hr, which Azonprinter said is “around three to four times faster” than the range’s predecessor, the Matrix series, which used Epson DX5 printheads.

While the original Matrix models will remain available, Azonprinter sales director Ida Babic said the Matrix R series extends the application possibilities into areas including home decor and interior design.

“We made the switch to Ricoh Gen5 printheads due to market demand for the speed but also because they allow us to use more industrial inks,” she said.

“These machines are mostly aimed at signage and screen printing shops – all the customers that we have targeted before – but we are also planning to target new markets for industrial.”

The printers come with complete Azon RIP software and use EN 71-3 certified Phthalate-free ink, which ensures they are safe to use for applications within the children’s furniture and toy industries.

The Matrix R series is being shown in public for the first time this week at the Viscom expo in Dusseldorf and the machines will also be demonstrated at various other shows during 2019, including Fespa in Munich in May.

The largest model in the range will cost “under €85,000 (£76,000)” according to Babic, and all three machines are available from Azonprinter’s UK distributor Atlantic Tech Services. The manufacturer has a network of 64 distributors worldwide.