Inkcups announces the commercial availability of an innovative new printer which can print directly onto reusable pliable bags and other products such as hardgoods.
Inkcups XJET Switch, a flatbed with rotating platens. It prints in CMYK plus two whites, using UV inks and with the white described as “highly opaque”.
The new device is available now, with the first units just arrived at Inkcups’ European HQ in Germany.
“We are prepping those machines now for the first installation in Europe,” explained Inkcups Europe managing director Bobby Grauf.
“It’s an absolutely fantastic machine because you can be continuously printing with hardly any makeready time at all, and you can very quickly switch from one product to the next.”
The XJET Switch has customisable platens and can print onto a variety of products including the extra-sturdy ‘bags for life’ that are found at many supermarkets and retailers, and the clear PVC bags required by large event venues.
The maximum part height for this bed is 200mm.
Grauf stated that digital production on demand would be ideal for seasonal or local promotional campaigns.
The XFLEXX UV ink is cured “instantly” using two 16W adjustable lamps.
“It’s an extra flexible UV ink,” he added, which avoids issues with cracking or distortion.
The Switch can print onto polyester, PVC, nonwovens, canvas, a variety of plastics, “and more”.
The device can be operated in three shifts.
Pricing is from around £155,000.
The device was previewed at last year’s Printing United show in the US and will be shown at the upcoming Printing United in Atlanta, Georgia, which takes place from 18-20 October.
CEO Benjamin Adner said the manufacturer hoped to exceed customer expectations with the new device: “This direct-to-bag printer generated a tremendous amount of excitement among our customers, who have been eagerly seeking a consistent and sustainable way to decorate reusable bags.
“We enthusiastically anticipate the creative possibilities that our customers will bring to life with the XJET Switch.”
Nick Macfarlane, regional sales representative in the UK and Ireland for Grauf, has also been added to the team.
Grauf said: “Inkcups’ strategic growth plans for Europe are well underway, and the addition of Nick Macfarlane to our thriving European team is further evidence of that. We are thrilled to be strengthening the support and service we provide in the UK and Ireland and delighted to have an experienced and results-driven salesperson like Nick serving an important region for Inkcups Europe.”
Macfarlane worked for eight years with Ricoh before joining Kornit Digital as UK sales manager. He brings a wealth of knowledge in direct-to -garment (DTG) printing to his role.