Among the key developments in finishing and converting equipment on display in Brussels were increasingly sophisticated digital embellishment options – primarily inkjet varnish, various forms of digital metallization, and laser die‐cutting – and faster die‐cutting systems that help enable more automated and more efficient flexo printing, helping it push back against digital technology when it comes to production of shorter runs.

 

Elsewhere on the show floor were the latest developments in inspection rewind units, shrink sleeve converting equipment, specialist units for production of RFID labels, and more.

 

DIGITAL EMBELLISHMENT

 

Digital embellishment – the replacement of tool‐based analog decoration and converting processes with fully digital processes – was a key trend among the converting technology on display. It can be achieved through different configurations, from integrated digital embellishment lines that combine inkjet varnishing, digital metallization and laser die‐cutting into fully automated one‐pass label converting systems, to retrofittable inkjet modules that can turn conventional printing or converting machines into hybrid systems capable of applying tactile varnishes or variable white, black and spot colors.

 

In the latter category, A B Graphic International (ABG) demonstrated the JetFX‐powered DigiJet 330 print bar, Domino launched a digital retrofit module for both flexo presses and finishing equipment, and FujiFilm marked the Labelexpo debut of its 42K imprinting bar system, successor to the Samba 42000.

 

Fully integrated digital embellishment systems included ABG demonstrating its DigiLase 4.0 laser die cutter as part of an integrated Digicon line.

 

Anytron showed its versatile Any‐Jet II which integrates digital printing, lamination, laser die‐cutting, slitting and matrix removal.

 

 

Continued...

 

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