Graphics and signage

DIA Board member and Spicers representative Jason Hamilton introduced the Wide Format (WF) seminar—one that had something for those already committed to WF and for those considering entering this growth market. The host presenter for the evening was Craig Reid, director of marketing and business development at DuPont Imaging Technologies.

Growth of WF inkjet
Reid discussed rapid change in the printing industry, from analog proofing in the late 1970s to digital type in the 1980s to DTP and digital proofing in the 1990s. In the early 2000s, digital inkjet proofing surpassed analog and WF inkjet came into its own, becoming more than a niche technology. The graphics and signage market is growing quickly, and the transition from analog print methods to digital seems just as quick.

Water-based inkjet is the oldest digital technology, and has reached near maturity, a status that will also soon be achieved by solvent-based inkjet. The technology that is in a rapid growth stage, according to Reid, is UV-curable, due to its versatility and reduced environmental impact. Evidence of this growth is the proliferation of UV-curable inkjet devices being offered by all major manufacturers, including HP (Scitex), Inca, EFI Vutek, Durst, DuPont, and Gandinnovations, as well as the increased shipments, worldwide.

Versatility of UV-curable inkjet
Part of the secret to the success of inkjet is its widespread application in display advertising (POP, backlit), window and pressure sensitive graphics, flags and banners, vehicle wraps, building and transit graphics, and trade show/exhibition graphics—just to name a few areas.

Couple this versatility with that of UV-curable ink and the market seems limitless, said Reid.

With UV-curable ink, you can print on a rigid substrate without coating or pre-treating the surface. With flexible media, there’s no need to laminate and you can print on recyclable, synthetic materials. Print speeds are faster, printed material dries instantly, there’s a reduction in both material and labour costs, and the turnaround times are faster. UV-curable printed graphics and signage are indoor and outdoor ready, with or without a top coat.

Reid cautioned the audience that all printers are not alike, particularly the ink systems. When purchasing a UV-curable WF printer, consider the application, the printing speeds, how the equipment will integrate into your existing printing system, and the image and color quality you need for the type of work you do. Ensure the ink system can deliver the color gamut and gloss uniformity required, and is compatible with the various substrates you’ll be printing. Reid recommended taking the time to research before purchasing, and to buy from a supplier you trust.

Environmental and safety considerations
When handled correctly, UV-curable systems are very safe and have low environmental impact. That said, UV-curable ink in liquid form contains potential skin irritants and is an inhalation irritant in aerosol form. Therefore it’s important not to directly expose oneself to uncured ink. With proper personal protective equipment (gloves, apron) and ventilation (preferably direct), the health risks can be controlled.

Because exposure to UV light can cause permanent eye damage, ensure the equipment you own or are looking to purchase has guards to shield the light. All pinch points must be factored, emergency stops accessible to the operator and the heat and ozone from the UV light should be vented. Also, consider the ergonomics involved with loading/unloading substrate.

On the environmental side, UV-curable ink is an insignificant source (usually <1%) of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), those chemicals that combine with nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere and, in the presence of sunlight, produce ozone. UV-curable has minimal environmental impact and can eliminate the need for annual government reporting (required for VOC usage >10 000 kg per year).

Growth ahead
Reid concluded his presentation by reiterating the fantastic growth opportunities in WF inkjet—especially in UV-curable. WF is a natural extension to digital prepress capabilities. With all the choices in equipment on the market, he reminded the audience to do their homework and choose a trusted vendor. Reid closed by stating the best time to invest in the WF UV-curable graphics and signage market is between now and 2010, before UV-curable becomes a commodity printing method.
    
Membership in the Digital Imaging Association enables companies to send as many employees as they deem appropriate to each meeting at no additional charge above the low cost of membership. Contact Marg Macleod, Association Manager 416-696-0151 or marg@digitalimagingassoc.ca.