EFI launches UV LED digital label printer for flexible packaging

EFI has created what it claims is the first full UV-curing digital label printer that can print on flexible packaging substrates.

The Jetrion 4830LED, which also features a newly developed ink set, can print on both heat-sensitive and unsupported materials, such as shrink-sleeve substrates.

The full-colour printer can handle web widths of up to 229mm and print up to 210mm wide at speeds of up to 37 metres per minute.

EFI said not having to pre- or pattern-coat flexible substrates prior to printing would open up new markets for label printers. Existing Jetrion 4830 owners can upgrade the model to incorporate the manufacturer's LED-curing technology.

According to Kenneth Stack, senior vice-president and general manager of Jetrion, the 4830LED was designed to expand short-run printing beyond traditional label stock to a wider range of flexible packaging materials.

He added: "The development of our flexible UV LED-curing inks demonstrates EFI Jetrion’s ongoing core competency in ink design, formulation and manufacture.

"We’re committed to bringing innovative ink solutions to market as a result of customer requirements and changes in market dynamics."