Characterized by Kodak as the first digital packaging press to match the productivity of flexo and the quality of gravure, the new Kodak-Uteco Sapphire EVO W is the first flexible packaging press using Kodak’s latest continuous inkjet technology. With a print width of 49.2 inches, the EVO W can inkjet print on flexible plastic films, paper and more in full colour at a resolution of 600 x 1,800 dpi, with drop-placement accuracy at speeds up to 500 feet per minute, thus providing high print resolution and reduced operating costs. The water-based nano-technological inks for packaging applications guarantee minimal environmental impact while keeping food-norm, indirect-contact compliance for packaging applications.
The new press is an ideal solution for short and medium runs, promotional printing with reduced production time, one-off printing, localized small-batch manufacturing, personalized products, lottery ticket printing, customized advertising, random printed messages and much more. Built-in advanced solutions for material transport and drying allow the Sapphire EVO W to effectively handle a large variety of substrates, including the most critical and delicate ones. Plus, its configuration can be customized according to the specific end application. The new press combines Kodak Ultrastream Inkjet Technology previously mentioned with Uteco’s rugged press design, gravure priming unit, flexo-white and post coating. Kodak added that the new press is “up to 8 times more productive” than other digital presses and yields “tremendous savings” in time, make-readies and costs.
With running costs that are “half the leading digital competitor,” users can drive more profits by growing higher-value digital jobs. Kodak’s eco-friendly, water-based nano-particulate pigment CMYK inks contain minimal Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and don’t require hazardous waste removal processes. They’re also food safe for indirect contact in packaging applications. Users can print on the most commonly used flexible packaging materials – such as PP, BOPP, PE, PET, PETG, PVdC PET, OPA, PVC, foils and paper, with an integrated, high-speed, inline priming station.
Kodak partners with Uteco to launch Sapphire EVO W digital flexible packaging press
