Roland DGA (Irvine, California), a leading provider of wide-format inkjet printers, 3D milling machines, and other digital devices, has announced the launch of the world’s first laser foil decorator – the DGSHAPE LD-80. Engineered to enhance a vast array of items with text, logos and graphics using a variety of metallized and holographic foils, the LD-80 “makes it easy to personalize and add value to small, off-the-shelf products such as pens, cell phone covers, stationery and cosmetic accessories,” said the OEM. A variety of attractive foils can be used with the LD-80 to create “stunning” graphics. Users can choose from a wide selection of gold, silver and other metallized foils, including holographic foils, to produce a broad range of vivid, eye-catching designs. The foil decorator comes bundled with a user-friendly software package that “makes product personalization and customization simple.” A wide selection of fonts is available, and settings such as font size and spacing can be adjusted at the click of a mouse. Vector data can also be imported – including custom designs such as illustrations and logos.
“While traditional methods typically perform adequately, they don’t allow short runs, and they can overheat the plastics in some cases,” said Matt Anderson, Roland DGA’s Product Manager for 3D Solutions. “This is actually where the LD-80 excels. It’s perfect for shorter runs and, with its focused laser, can transfer even small text and fine details to materials like acrylic, ABS and polycarbonate quickly, reliably and with incredible precision. Its small footprint and portability makes the LD-80 ideal for performing on-demand foil decoration just about anywhere. You can place and operate this desktop device in virtually any retail store or kiosk setting – plus it’s easy to transport to special events like street fairs and festivals,” he added.
Compliant with the safest Class 1 International Standard for products equipped with laser devices, the LD-80 incorporates a full-cover design to ensure it can be used safely without laser light being visible outside the unit. It also includes a “failsafe” design that stops the unit automatically if the cover is opened during operation. The exclusive design of its laser system also eliminates dust or gas from being generated, thus ensuring maintenance-free operation.
