eco-solvent - Digital Printer https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/topic/eco-solvent/ Digital Printer magazine Mon, 30 Oct 2023 17:39:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Freeney’s Graphics makes double Epson purchase https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/86178/freeneys-graphics-makes-double-epson-purchase/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/86178/freeneys-graphics-makes-double-epson-purchase/#respond Tue, 31 Oct 2023 07:30:27 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=86178 Graphics has made a double investment investment in Epson printers to support further growth, buying a UV flatbed and an eco-solvent roll-to-roll printer

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Irish sign specialist Freeney’s Graphics has made a double investment investment in Epson printers to support further growth, buying an SC-V7000 UV flatbed and an SC-S80600 eco-solvent roll-to-roll printer.

The sixth-generation family-run Dublin sign specialist worked with local Epson supplier digitalprint.ie to bring its production in-house and to expand into new markets.

Managing director Tom Freeney commented, ‘We were originally sign writers but today we are producing digital print, large format print and a lot of vehicle graphics. We were early adopters of digital printers and as their technology has evolved, we have evolved with them, and the business has grown.’

The two Epson systems were chosen to help continue that growth, with local support and confidence in the Epson brand being key factors. The flatbed in particular has opened up new opportunities, as Mr Freeney explained, ‘The flatbed solution is a new technology for us. It is very versatile. We find we are doing some nice niche work which we wouldn’t have previously done or we would have outsourced. It has a wide range of features, features that other machines in its class simply don’t have. It has the ability to print white inline. It prints varnish. It has a wider colour gamut than any other machines we inspected and after printing the same file on a range of printers the Epson was far superior.’

While the roll-fed SC-S80600 was a more familiar type of machine, it too has exceeded expectations, according to Mr Freeney: ‘We hit the ground running with the SC-S80600. It has been very easy to use. The colours are far beyond our expectations and it has been a great success.’

 

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Drytac enhances the view with ViziPrint Impress White https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/77754/drytac-enhances-the-view-with-viziprint-impress-white/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/77754/drytac-enhances-the-view-with-viziprint-impress-white/#respond Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:26:25 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=77754 Drytac has announced ViziPrint Impress White, an improved version of its film for applications such as window advertisements, screen displays and white goods decoration.

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Drytac has announced the global availability of ViziPrint Impress White, an improved version of its film for applications such as window advertisements, screen displays and white goods decoration.

Suitable for self-adhesive applications on glass and other smooth, flat surfaces, the improved ViziPrint Impress White is said to let users achieve vibrant colours to make applications stand out. The material is designed for either dry or wet installation, according to the size of the graphic, on glass, mirrors or other similarly smooth surfaces.

Drytac says it is ideal for applications such as window advertisements, screen displays and appliances or white goods decoration, and that it creates a strong bond in both high and low temperatures without leaving residue behind, eliminating bubbling, making installation easier while being unaffected by moisture.

The ultra-white PET film can be moved and repositioned multiple times and will remove cleanly, without leaving residue. It is printable with eco-solvent, latex and UV print technologies and offers three years’ interior and two years’ exterior durability.

‘We are delighted to make the improved ViziPrint Impress White PET film available to our customers around the world,’ commented Drytac CEO Hayden Kelley. ‘It is an incredibly flexible material and can be used for multiple indoor and short-term outdoor applications including window advertising, graphics, decals, stickers and privacy and decorative glass applications.

‘Add in clean removability and excellent durability, and ViziPrint Impress White PET film is the ideal solution for a wide range of graphics projects.’

 

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Creative Bee gets busy with Mimaki upgrade https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/77448/creative-bee-gets-busy-with-mimaki-upgrade/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/77448/creative-bee-gets-busy-with-mimaki-upgrade/#respond Mon, 06 Mar 2023 17:00:25 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=77448 Creative Bee has updated its Mimaki roll-fed printing capacity with a JV100-160 supplied by CMYUK which has replaced a pair of older machines

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Stafford-based Creative Bee has updated its Mimaki roll-fed printing capacity with a JV100-160 supplied by CMYUK, replacing a pair of older machines from the Japanese manufacturer, providing faster throughput and increasing applications flexibility.

The business, which is the digital wide-format sibling of offset print business Creative Colour-n-Copy, has been using a Mimaki JV33 eco-solvent machine and a CJV33 solvent printer/cutter, but was having to run double-day shifts to keep up with volume demands. Director Anne Grice preferred to stick with the brand she knew and trusted but found there was more to the upgrade than she had expected:

‘It prints in a fraction of the time but there’s no difference in quality, it’s exactly the same but just so much quicker because it’s got the double head. Also, if you’ve got a problem with one, you can just go back to printing with a single head, which is a massive sales feature,’ she commented, adding, ‘We’ve just completed a job that involved printing 12 rolls of vinyl that we then cut into labels for a customer. If we had been doing that on our old printers, this job would have taken several days and nights, not to mention the electricity consumed.

‘The new printer has impacted us immediately saving so much time and money. If we have signage jobs that we can’t print direct to board due to size limitations of a maximum of 8 x 4ft, we can now output to vinyl and mount the print and produce 5 x 10ft signs, which is a huge bonus for us. There are lots of little things that we couldn’t do before but now we can, it makes our lives so much easier.’

The 1620mm media width of the JV100-160 compared to the 1370mm of the older machines also simplifies the production and installation of vinyl wraps amongst other applications. In conjunction with the litho print facility it means the company can cater to most print requirements, from business cards, through to brochures, booklets, folders, signage, banners, vehicle livery, window graphics, pull-up stands and canvas prints, confirms Ms Grice, who also praised CMYUK’s pre-sales, installation and subsequent support service.

 

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Sign & Digital UK preview https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/key-articles/77177/sign-digital-uk-preview/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/key-articles/77177/sign-digital-uk-preview/#respond Mon, 13 Feb 2023 14:33:23 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=key_article&p=77177 The UK’s dedicated wide-format signage and display exhibition is back in its usual slot and venue. Digital Printer looks ahead to what the show will offer and some exhibitors’ news Sign & Digital UK was one of the first shows to resume its normal schedule after the interruptions of the pandemic years, with a respectable […]

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The UK’s dedicated wide-format signage and display exhibition is back in its usual slot and venue. Digital Printer looks ahead to what the show will offer and some exhibitors’ news

Sign & Digital UK was one of the first shows to resume its normal schedule after the interruptions of the pandemic years, with a respectable showing in March 2022, and is back this year with increasing confidence as the industry continues to recover from the lockdown periods of interrupted business.

Industry names already confirmed include Roland DG, EFI, eProductivity Software, Epson UK, Morgana, Premier, Hexis UK, Vivid Laminating Technologies and swissQprint. According to organisers Faversham House, there will also be a host of familiar – and maybe not so familiar – exhibitors ready and waiting to welcome visitors from across the sign and large-format digital printing world.

Event director Jenny Matthew says, ‘Last year we had a great show, even though the country was just getting used to the idea of getting out again. However, this year promises to be a no-holds-barred celebration of all that is good and great in the wonderful world of sign-making and large-format digital printing. I have spoken to many people who say that SDUK 2023 will be their first opportunity to see the latest technology and innovation for several years, and they can’t wait.’

In addition to the array of exhibitors on the show floor, there are other features at the show, designed to educate and inform sign-makers of all shapes, sizes and experience levels. One of these is the UK Wrap Battle 2023, hosted by Hexis, will run throughout the show, giving visitors a chance to see the very best practitioners of the vehicle wrapping trade as they demonstrate their skills in a battle of speed and accuracy to claim the title of Best UK Installer 2023.

Meanwhile, the Sign Studio aims to have something for everyone in vinyl signage, from novices to veterans. Running every day, this features live demonstrations and practical workshops hosted by experienced sign-maker Paul Hughes. These sessions will allow visitors to learn more about the basics of vinyl application, vehicle livery, wall coverings and other uses for the material.

‘I will give practical, hands-on demonstrations designed to inform people looking to take their first steps in vinyl application and those wanting to add to and develop their skills. There will even be something for more seasoned pros on the hunt for the latest tips and tricks,’ says Mr Hughes.

 

Explanations forthcoming

Complementing these are the SDUK Explains Lounge and a brand-new feature, the Sign Surgery, both hosted by the International Sign Association UK (ISA–UK). Throughout the show, there will be daily presentations and panel sessions covering the big issues affecting sign-makers and wide-format print providers. The topics covered in these will include sustainability, overcoming the skills shortage challenge and how to grow your business.

Building on last year’s outing, the Explains Lounge will host a comprehensive programme of presentations designed to engage, inform and inspire. All of the sessions are free to attend and there is no requirement to pre-register.

Event Director Jenny Matthew explains, ‘We have invited experienced experts in their field to explain how to make your sign business more successful. They will look at various important topics, such as when it’s right to outsource or take work in-house, how to win more tenders, and how sign-makers can work together to build their businesses.’

 

Panel beating

Daily panel sessions bring a range of industry experts together to discuss the big issues affecting the signage industry. On Tuesday 28 March, a group of experts from BPIF and POPAI will examine the danger of ‘sustainability satigue’. They will discuss how to reinvigorate the market to keep sustainability in focus and benefit themselves, their customers and the planet.

Wednesday’s panel session (29 March) will be hosted by Women in Sign-Making, focusing on the role of men in supporting women in sign-making. On Thursday 30 March, the panel will examine the skills shortage affecting sign-makers up and down the country. They will discuss the pain points for the sign industry, and highlight the key actions companies can take to overcome them.

 

Successful surgery

A new feature for 2023, the Sign Surgery will take place alongside the Explains Lounge and will be an informal environment where visitors can put questions to ISA-UK directors. Craig Brown, CEO of the ISA UK, says, ‘The Sign Surgery will be a vibrant and welcoming place where visitors come to discuss the issues and challenges most important to them. ISA members with decades of experience in all areas of sign-making will be available throughout the show to answer questions and discuss real business issues. We have seen and lived it all in signage as a group, and this is a rare opportunity to share this knowledge with fellow sign-makers.’

Ms Matthew concludes, ‘The Explains Lounge will be based in the heart of the show and we have put together a schedule that should have something of interest and value for everyone attending the show. Whether you are a small start-up looking to gain vital knowledge and advice from experienced industry experts, or a more seasoned professional wanting to keep up to speed with the latest developments, we have something for you on the Explains Lounge.’

 

Exhibitor highlights

Materials from Drytac for the large-format print and signage applications will appear on a variety of stand across Hall 2 at the NEC, where they will feature in product demonstrations from Epson, Roland DG, Soyang Europe and Mimaki distributor Hybrid Services. Experts from Drytac will also be in attendance to answer any questions.

Workflow and MIS specialist eProductivity Software (EPS) eProductivity Software is promising an exclusive first look at what it touts as ‘a revolutionary new mobile app that will change the way you approach installations, invoicing and delivery’. The rest of the company’s Productivity Suites and other modular solutions will be in action, with opportunities to speak with experts, about improving workflow, increasing efficiency, or expanding capabilities. Specific technology areas covered by EPS include web-to-print, imposition and print MIS/ERP solutions, backed by live demonstrations and hands-on experiences, plus expert consultations and advice.

Visitors to Mimaki distributor Hybrid Services’ stand will be able to view the new direct-to-film (DtF) TxF 150-75 printer that also made its debut appearance at Printwear & Promotion Live in late February. The Mimaki DTF works on cotton, polyester and polyester blended materials, and the print can be applied to both light and dark coloured fabrics. DtF offers a simpler workflow compared to other garment printing methods, and the inks are Oeko-Tex Eco Passport certified.

Also present on Hybrid’s stand will be the dye sublimation TS330-1600 and the other models in the 330 series of printers, the solvent print-only JV330-160 and its integrated solvent printer/cutter sibling, the CJV330. All three models share a common 1.6m platform, claiming high performance and productivity, coupled with ease of use. On the flatbed UV side, printers at opposite ends of the size spectrum will also be on show, with the A2/A3 format UJF Series displayed alongside the JFX200-2513EX 8 x 4-ft model. Both offer direct to substrate printing on a wide range of materials and items.

Morgana and Intec are partnering to exhibit a full range of die-cutting solutions. This includes the AeroDieCut, which uses existing wood and steel dies for cutting, creasing, perforating, embossing and debossing. For a full digital approach, the highly automated new ColorCut SC6000 is said to provide an ideal entry point. Flatbed die-cutting options from the Intec stable include the creasing and cutting dual-tooled flatbed ColorCut FB775 and ColorCut FB9000 Pro models, which deliver high performance and ‘unparalleled’ media control via creasing forces of up to 1.5kg and a cutting force of up to 1.2kg. Morgana’s top-of-the-range Valiani Integra is suitable for working with thicker substrates and targeted the world of signage and packaging.

Sign & Digital UK preview

The BN-20D desktop printer marks Roland DG’s entry into the direct-to-fabric sector

Premier will be showcasing products from its extensive range of display graphic media including key brands such as Contra Vision, Neschen, Ultraboard, Ritrama and Plexiglas. The company’s team of experts will be on hand to deliver product information, demonstrations and advice on how to transform spaces with memorable, innovative retail displays and graphics.  There will also be live competitions running throughout the course of each of the three days, with some prizes up for grabs and one or two special guest appearances.

PrintiQ will be returning to the show with an increased stand presence and more demonstrators following its success at last year’s event. The MIS developer will bring its latest software, which delivers business intelligence information and builds a managed workflow solution that allows users to see accurately where they are making or losing money and provides data to underpin actions. Among the various modules to be shown are Quote Intelligence, Payment Gateways, Shipping Manager, plus rich API interfaces that connect and drive online systems to create a complete automated ordering and tracking service from ‘quote to delivery’.

A range of wide-format print solutions will be shown by QPS, including a Colorjet Verve 2513 UV flatbed printer running throughout the three-day event, using Nazdar inks., which will also be featured in their own right. QPS will also be able to discuss how DuPont Artistri textile inks, for which is a distributor, will work with ‘almost any’ printer and are suitable for multiple textile applications including apparel, fashion accessories, interior design, exterior flags and signage, soft furnishings, active wear, garment decoration and direct-to-garment printing.

Roland DG will show the new TrueVis models announced in January 2023, including its first resin printer, the AP-640 and the MG & LG series of UV print-and-cut machines. Alongside these newest machines, the VG3-640 and SG3-540/300 printer/cutters will be displayed. Roland hasn’t confirmed but it seems highly likely that the company’s baby DtF printer, the BN-20D, which was shown at Printwear & Promotion Live, will also feature.

Soyang Europe and Josero will demonstrate hardware from manufacturing partners Fujifilm, Jetrix and Mimaki, as well as display an applications wall with products created using its own wide- and super-wide format digitally printable materials. The latter will include non-PVC banner materials, textiles, wallcovering and décor media, plus self-adhesive floor coverings.

Another returning exhibitor from 2022 is SwissQprint, which will be running live demonstrations of the high quality Nyala 4 flatbed UV printer, along with the roll-fed Karibu. Information about other models, including the Kudu, the most recently introduced high-end UV flatbed model capable of over 300sqm/hr output and with 10 configurable colour channels, will also be available. Specialist applications including neon inks, texture printing and 3D effects will be shown in addition.

Show stalwart Trotec will be back too, with a range of product demonstrations, including the biggest of its large-format laser cutters, the SP3000. With laser power options up to 400W, a 3210 x 2210mm working area and a host of productivity features, the PS3000 is designed for demanding production environments and enables an optimised workflow that complements the print process. In addition, Trotec will give live demonstrations of the Speedy 400 Flexx and Q500 laser engraver and cutter systems, which both offer high-quality laser finishing for printed products. The company’s range of sheet materials, including engravable laminates, wood and acrylic, will also be on display.

Vivid Laminating Technologies will be showcasing all its major product ranges: the VeloBlade Nexus range of wide-format digital die-cutters, the Matrix systems for lamination, foiling and special effects, and the Easymount systems for wide-format lamination. Vivid staff will also demonstrate the company’s Zip Core packaging software, which is has been designed to optimise packaging design from start to finish, and the VeloTaper fully-automated flatbed taping system, a patented innovation designed and developed in-house by Vivid in the UK.

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Roland adds resin model in slew of new TrueVis printers https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/76958/roland-adds-resin-model-in-slew-of-new-truevis-printers/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/76958/roland-adds-resin-model-in-slew-of-new-truevis-printers/#respond Thu, 26 Jan 2023 00:01:55 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=76958 Roland DG has introduced six new printers in its TrueVis range, including its first resin ink model, plus UV print-and-cut devices.

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In what it has described as its ‘most significant ever’ product launch, Roland DG has introduced six new printers in its TrueVis range, including its first resin ink model, plus UV print-and-cut devices.

The new models embody continuous developments made in the TrueVis platform since its inception in 2016, since when some 28,000 units have been sold, according to Roland DG president Kohei Tanabe, and bring the total number of models in the range to 10, including the four launched in March 2022. A common platform has been developed, with increased standardisation of parts – where applicable – and user interface. This is intended to simplify operation and maintenance of the printers, with sustainability improved through the introduction of replaceable 750ml ink pouches across the range.

The TrueVis LG 640 series of UV print-and-cut models includes 64, 54 and 30-inch variants (1625, 1571 and 762mm respectively) with a staggered twin print head arrangement supporting resolutions of up to 1200dpi and 21.3sqm/hr top speed at 720 x 900dpi. It supports white and gloss inks plus primer and is said to be suitable for window and backlit graphics, amongst other applications.

An evolution of the older VersaUV LEC2 platform, the new MG 640 line offers 1625 and 762mm models, supporting up to eight ink channels that can include red and orange inks for gamut expansion, plus an optimised curing system claimed to balance both quality and cost. The MG series is pitched as a complete solution that can print, cut, die-cut, perforate, varnish and emboss through clear ink build, which also supports Braille applications. Throughput is up to 11.3sqm/hr and there is an optional extension table to support printing on semi-rigid materials.

Adding a third ink type to Roland’s portfolio is the AP 640, a six-colour resin ink printer that extends the range of applications thanks to its water-based ink. The TA inks are Greenguard Gold certified, making them suitable for applications where eco-solvent or UV are not. Output is instantly dry, thanks to a warm air ‘curtain’ dryer that recirculates air to save energy, and the inks preserve the look and texture of the substrate. An optimiser is used to enable printing at up to 23sqm/hr and the printer as a whole has also been optimised for cost, according to Roland DG.

Tony Miller, president of Roland DG’s Global Sales and Marketing Division commented, ‘Consumer needs have and continue to dramatically change against a backdrop of fast-paced technological innovation, changes in social structure, and the growing awareness of environmental issues. As a result, printed graphics are increasingly required not only to transmit information, but to offer functionality and expressiveness that create positive impressions and experiences.

‘We are excited to support our customers through this changing landscape by launching an expansion to our TrueVis line-up – offering more options and better, innovative solutions for all. No matter which printing technology they choose, our customers can count on the same industry-leading TrueVis quality of printing and reliability across the full range.’

All the new models are available immediately via Roland DG’s usual channels.

 

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Aslan introduces a tough, sticky monster https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/73917/aslan-introduces-a-tough-sticky-monster/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/73917/aslan-introduces-a-tough-sticky-monster/#respond Mon, 13 Jun 2022 14:49:01 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=73917 Aslan has expanded its digital print media portfolio with MonsterTack Aslan DFP 05, a glossy white self-adhesive film designed for difficult surfaces and harsh conditions

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Manufacturer of self-adhesive films Aslan has expanded its digital print media portfolio with MonsterTack Aslan DFP 05, a glossy white self-adhesive film that it says sticks securely even to the most difficult surfaces and under the toughest conditions.

The new MonsterTack material has a solvent gas and lubricating oil-resistant adhesive formula that helps it adhere to surfaces which would usually be problematic, such as applications on plywood panels of box trailers, which are often equipped with a dirt-repellent surface; construction, agricultural and industrial machines subject to extreme dirt and mechanical stress; petrol pumps, powder-coated surfaces and low-energy substrates, ABS plastics, motocross vehicles and caravans/campers.

MonsterTack DFP 05 complements the existing UltraTack DFP 06, 07 and 08 films. It is also suitable for bonding on rough surfaces indoors and out. It can be attached to flat or slightly curved surfaces in temperatures as low as -10° C and it lasts up to seven years outdoors.

The polymer film can be printed with solvent, eco-solvent, latex and UV curable inks, as well as with screen printing inks. Despite its strong permanent adhesive, it can be removed from low-energy substrates and steel without leaving residue. The self-adhesive film is also classified to salt spray test ISO 9227:2017.

Anja Falkenberg, marketing and sales director at Aslan, commented, ‘We at Aslan have been able to prove, time and again in the past, that we are able to meet, understand and solve the challenges in sign making and digital printing. We are proud that the MonsterTack Aslan DFP 05 fills a gap in the world of self-adhesive films. This requires know-how and a lot of development work and it is what Aslan has stood for more than 70 years. The result is a film that is extremely easy to process despite the high demands.’

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Government to drop solvent legislation pending public consultation https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/73272/government-to-drop-solvent-legislation-pending-public-consultation/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/73272/government-to-drop-solvent-legislation-pending-public-consultation/#comments Thu, 05 May 2022 09:51:55 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=73272 The UK government has agreed to revoke the regulations that would have imposed onerous licensing requirements on producers and users of solvent and eco-solvent inks

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The UK Government has agreed to revoke the regulations brought in last December that would have imposed onerous licensing requirements on producers and users of solvent and eco-solvent inks containing two substances – gamma butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (BDO) – that had been reclassified as Class B controlled substances. A public consultation will be held with a view to new legislation against illicit use of these substances coming into force in early 2023.

The Graphics & Print Media Alliance (GPMA) has confirmed that ministers have agreed to revoke the Misuse Of Drugs (Amendment) (England, Wales and Scotland) Regulations 2021 (‘the 2021 Regulations’) without replacing them immediately. This means that in England, Wales and Scotland, organisations in the print supply chain will not require a licence for substances containing GBL on 15 June 2022, when the 2021 Regulations had been due to come into force.

The decision follows extensive representations to the Home Office by the members of the GPMA together with the wider chemicals supply chain, including the Chemicals Business Association and the Alliance of Chemical Associations. 

Charles Jarrold, chair of the GPMA and chief executive of the BPIF, commented:

‘We are relieved that the proposed legislation has been withdrawn, and that a full consultation will now be carried out to determine the best way forward.  We were particularly encouraged by, and appreciative of, the support that the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy gave us in this process, and the level of engagement from the Home Office. Not only did we coordinate through the GPMA across the entire print supply chain, but we worked closely with the wider chemicals supply chain throughout this process.’

Tom Bowtell, chair of the Alliance of Chemical Associations and chief executive of the British Coatings Federation added:

‘We welcome that Government has listened to the concerns of industry and agreed to redraft the required regulations. This creates space for proper consultation with businesses as new legislation is drafted over the coming months. We hope these discussions will lead to a more proportionate and effective law, one which delivers on the Government’s aims but which does not unduly penalise legitimate users of these substances across the chemical supply chain, nor in the manufacturing or other sectors.’

The Home Office will now conduct a public consultation on how best to achieve the intended outcome of preventing the sale of bogus industrial products intended for illicit use. Subject to consultation and ministerial agreement, the intention is to seek views on the introduction of a licensing requirement which may contain some exemptions. Existing applicants for a licence will be contacted by the Home Office’s Drugs and Firearms Licensing to explain the next steps in relation to their application, with a view to new legislation coming into force in March 2023.

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Trade bodies optimistic about GBL regulations revision https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/72295/trade-bodies-optimistic-about-gbl-regulations-revision/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/72295/trade-bodies-optimistic-about-gbl-regulations-revision/#respond Wed, 16 Mar 2022 11:50:59 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=72295 The GPMA met with the Home Office on 10 March to discuss the new regulations relating to GBL and BDO

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Representatives of the Graphics & Print Media Alliance (GPMA) met with the Home Office on 10 March to discuss the new regulations relating to gamma butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (BDO), which could potentially affect users of solvent and other ink types, requiring expensive licensing for both suppliers and end-users.

The meeting was described as ‘constructive and helpful’ and the GPMA anticipates that there will be a resolution that is both logical and workable for the graphic arts industry.

The meeting included representatives of the British Printing Industries Federation, the British Coatings Federation, the Independent Print Industries Association and the Printing Industry Confederation as well as two suppliers, Epson and Hybrid Services. It also included two officials from the Home Office and one from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

Charles Jarrold, GPMA Chair, said, ‘We understand and support the Government’s intent to legislate to prevent the misuse of GBL and BDO but we needed to find a fair, sensible and workable way to do that without being detrimental to the printing industry and other sectors. We appreciate the support we have had from BEIS and from the Home Office, who listened to our feedback and have indicated that they intend to respond in such a way that the graphic arts sector can continue to operate effectively moving forward.’

Phil McMullin, head of sales Commercial & Industrial Printing,  noted, ‘Epson has worked in collaboration with GPMA on this matter and is pleased with the progress that has been made so far. The GPMA has lobbied rapidly, with conviction and unity to raise awareness of the unintentional but potential damage the current legislation could bring to the UK print industry. Government recognition of the need to protect our industry, and our customers from the proposed legislation is greatly welcomed and will allow UK print businesses to focus on rebuilding after the pandemic. We will continue to work with them closely to resolve this matter.’

Brett Newman, managing director at UK and Ireland Mimaki distributor Hybrid Services said, ‘Given the positive direction in which the discussions are heading, I now believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Hybrid Services will continue to work alongside other industry suppliers and the GPMA to jointly lobby the government to protect the industry and ensure that there will be minimal impact on businesses within the print and graphic art industries.’

 

Industry responses from manufacturers are listed and updated here as Digital Printer receives them.

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Roland introduces third-gen TrueVis printer/cutters https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/72093/roland-introduces-third-gen-truevis-printer-cutters/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/72093/roland-introduces-third-gen-truevis-printer-cutters/#respond Wed, 02 Mar 2022 12:54:29 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=72093 Roland DG has launched its third generation of TrueVis roll-fed print-and-cut machines, with both professional and entry-level models spanning widths from 762 to 1625mm

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Roland DG has launched its third generation of TrueVis roll-fed print-and-cut machines, with both professional and entry-level models aimed at sign and graphics and personalisation applications ranging from signage and banners to vehicle graphics, stickers and labels.

The SG3 series offers 762 and 1371mm widths and CMYK printing, while the VG3 series is available in 1371 and 1625mm versions and supports eight colours, which permits a number of possibilities. The permutations include dual CMYK for maximum throughput, gamut-expanding orange and green inks, plus white and light cyan, magenta and black inks to yield high quality reproduction of images such as mono photographs or those with skin tones or other subtly varying colour shades.

All the printers use Roland’s TR2 eco-solvent inks and support up to 1200dpi resolution. Improved ease of use has been a priority in the new models, according to Roland, with a 7-in LCD touch panel for control and status overview, automated media feed and gap adjustment (maximum media thickness of 1mmm including liner, where appropriate), and simplified media set-up with one-touch media holders. The Media Take-Up system is now included with all TrueVis 3 devices with an automated setup function. Proactive maintenance is enabled by Roland DG Connect software, which also provides a dashboard view of machine statistics for device management and cost tracking.

‘We’re so excited to bring to market these next-generation TrueVis printer/cutters,’ said Paul Willems, Product Management & Business Development director at Roland DG EMEA. ‘Since its launch in 2016, we have focused on building upon our award-winning TrueVis range. The combination of unparalleled colour, durability and ease of use has appealed to large numbers of digital print business owners.

‘The exciting new products launched today were developed from user feedback with the goal of making Roland’s best-selling Print & Cut performance available in an even more user-friendly and intelligent manner for everyone. The VG3/SG3 series provides exceptional value for printing businesses and delivers the finest image quality.’

Roland will be demonstrating the new models on its at Sign & Digital UK at the NEC, Birmingham, from 22 to 24 March.

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Industry responds to GBL classification change https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/71976/industry-responds-to-gbl-classification-change/ https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/news/71976/industry-responds-to-gbl-classification-change/#respond Mon, 28 Feb 2022 09:41:58 +0000 https://www.digitalprintermag.co.uk/?post_type=news&p=71976 Vendors and industry bodies for react to the UK Government's classification of components of solvent inks as Class B controlled substances

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Responding to the news about the potential impact on users, resellers and manufacturers of solvent and eco-solvent inks of the UK government’s re-classification of gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4 butanediol (1,4-BD), Digital Printer has contacted various vendors and industry bodies for their reactions and more detailed information on which products may be affected.

Here we present their comments, most recent first:

GPMA, posted 25 February 2022

The Graphics & Print Media Alliance has written to minister Kit Malthouse and BEIS parliamentary under-secretary Lee Rowley to explain the extent of the industry in terms of companies, employees and gross turnover and the difficulties that the new licensing requirements will impose. It also points out the exemptions granted in US law for mixtures containing less than 70% GBL (by weight or volume) and the lack of equivalent restrictions within the EU, putting UK companies at a relative disadvantage, while explaining both the economic unfeasibility and technical difficulty of using inks as GBL sources for drug use. The short period for licence application / approval and likely timescale for the development and testing of GBL-free alternative formulations are also highlighted.

The GPMA proposed a range of options for government consideration. These include a delay to the implementation of the legislation to allow for a full consultation; technical evaluation of the ability of illicit users to extract GBL from inks; an extended transitional period to allow for licensing; consultation with ink manufacturers on a realistic timescale fro removing GBL from inks; the setting of a threshold for GBL/ 1,4-BD, below which a licence will not be required; and a registration scheme for companies using the pure substances, which would affect only manufacturers and not the reseller channel or end-users.

The full letter is published on the GPMA website, under ‘statements’.

Canon, posted 8 March 2022

Canon EMEA marketing manager for large format graphics Ismet Özdemir has confirmed that neither GBL nor 1,4BD are present in any of Canon’s current products.

Mutoh Europe, posted 25 February 2022

Mutoh is aware that GBL is on the radar in various regions in the world.
As is the case with many chemicals, they can be exploited for positive as well as for negative applications.

It is certainly true that GBL is a component which contributes positively in inks of which the drying mechanism is based on evaporation of a portion of the ingredients.
Mutoh has already substantially reduced the amounts of GBL in its latest generation Greenguard Gold certified MS31 and MS41 sign & display inks, from high percentages to values below 3% w/w.

Later this year, Mutoh is planning to release a new GBL free ink chemistry designed from scratch, keeping intact and even improving some key properties for in- & outdoor sign and display applications.

 

Epson, posted 17 February 2022

Epson is deeply concerned about the impact these measures could have not only to its own business, but on its customers and indeed the UK print signage industry as a whole. While we understand and support the Government’s desire to prevent the misuse of a potentially harmful substance, we believe it would be extremely difficult for GBL to be extracted from our ink due to its chemical formulation. We are convinced that the number of businesses and range of products likely to be impacted is far greater than the Government’s initial studies anticipate. We would welcome the opportunity to review with the Government a methodology to introduce licensing that would allow legitimate businesses to continue unimpeded, whilst minimising the potential risk of misuse.

We are already working closely with major industry associations including the IPIA, BPIF, ISAUK, The British Coatings Federation and Picon to highlight the disruption these measures will bring to businesses.

 

Digital Printer will continue to update this story as we receive further industry responses, so we suggest you bookmark this page if you are concerned that equipment you use may be affected.

 

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