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Rapid-X Digital, Australian digital label technology developer, is kicking off 2014 with a new label press, with more to follow throughout the year.
The new Rapid XL220 features a 220mm web width design with a so-called all-in-one approach – Rapid says this simply means data goes in and finished products come out.
Nick Mansell, general manager of Rapid-X Digital
Nick Mansell, general manager of Rapid-X Digital, says, “The growth in short run digitally-printed labels is such that sections of the market are calling for a simplified but efficient end-to-end press solution.
“This means a machine where files are sent over a network and the job can be set up from a central console for all parameters including die-cutting, matrix stripping and laminating or coating. It’s PDF files in and finished labels out the other end.”
The XL220 will continue to use Memjet printheads, but Rapid says it will look like a single unit rather than a modular three or four-piece ensemble – and a touchscreen will provide access to all functions.
Variations on the way include the Rapid XL220C with coater and XL350, a 350mm web width version currently in development. An inline flexo coating station is also planned, as Mansell says coating digitally-printed labels is becoming essential for packaging printers.
Mansell says, “Our long experience in making flexo presses and all of the ancillary unwinding/rewinding units that go along with flexo, has served us well in designing the new label press.
“Whether digitally or conventionally printed, labels are still about converting and embellishing so we are fusing digital and flexographic technology in this new press option.”
The Rapid XL220, with webpath
The new Rapid XL presses will sell for less than $100,000, and will hit the market in March. The first XL220 has been manufactured and will soon be installed with a beta customer.
Rapid says the machine will run a 220mm web at 18mpm at 1,600 by 800 dpi, or 9mpm at 1,600 by 1,600 dpi. It prints on inkjet-receptive self-adhesive label stock using Memjet water-based inks.
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