Fujifilm launches new Superia plate and XMF module and announces new pigment inks

Fujifilm (8B-A25) has launched a new Superia plate and XMF module and has announced new pigment inks for water-based inkjet.?

The Superia ZD processless plate, which will be available as part of the manufacturer's Superia portfolio following Drupa, builds on the technologies behind its Superia Pro-T3 processless plate.

The plate is compatible with UV ink and suitable for longer run jobs, but also offers the reliability and stability features of the Pro-T3, Fujifilm said.??It incorporates new technologies including MGZ, a graining structure that ensures the optimum ink/water balance on press, an accelerator that ensures compatibility with UV inks and Fujifilm's new 's-HDS' technology, which is said to optimise the water holding properties of the surface of the non-image area.

New XMF module XMF Controller is said to deliver automation and efficiency benefits for printers in the commercial, sign and display and packaging markets.

It sits in front of Fujifilm's XMF Workflow and allows jobs to be created directly from an MIS system, removing the need for a printer's pre-press department to be involved in every stage of a job.

Fujifilm Europe Graphic Systems Division head of communications and sales enablement Graham Leeson said: “In that particular part of the market, efficiency and automation is absolutely key. A print service provider's customer service team can enter the data and that can be fed right through to production.”

The manufacturer is also exhibiting reference models of a pigment ink for water-based inkjet to be used in flexible packaging. A print sample of water-based ink is being exhibited in the Fujifilm Inkjet Technology zone on the booth.

Fujifilm Dimatix senior director of business development Bailey Smith said: “Flexible is an important segment in the packaging space and Fujifilm is dedicating significant development to this area.

“This new pigmented aqueous inkjet ink works together with a unique pre-conditioner technology to create vibrant colours and flexible film substrates.”

An inkjet print sample of a shiny metallic ink currently under development is also being exhibited. The company said the development of metallic ink meets the increasing demand for indoor signs, packages and label printing with metallic textures to give a luxurious look.