Lots of novelties in digital printing at viscom show

20 Sep '12

6 min read

“The possibility to run several thousand different automated print jobs within a short period of time is also the logical consequence of another trend, that of ‘web-to-print’”. Another important issue is the question of sustainability, where Rees sees a need for further discussions within the industry: “Global trends such as ‘green printing technology’ are very promising but rarely meet with recognition in the form of customers’ willingness to pay a higher price. ‘Greenwashing’ practiced by some suppliers also results in a lack of clarity. In this respect, consumer education is required.”

Customer service and continuous adaptation and extension of the product range are important factors for Timo Keersmaekers, Marketing Manager with Roland DG: „A very important trend is the search for added value. White and metallic inks are becoming important assets to meet the clients’ wishes. Another trend is the increase of the possible colour combinations, so you can really select the colours you need.” For Keersmaekers, especially digital printing is gaining ground in this respect: „We also see a shift - for specific print jobs - from traditional printing to digital solutions. Applications that used to be available only through traditional processes can now be made with digital printers e.g. packaging proofs and prototypes.”

The combination of various techniques of visual communications is gaining in importance. “The large format and digital signage segments are merging to an increasing degree, and offer customers a potential practically undreamt of“, says Michael Wartmann, Marketing & Projekt Manager with Mutoh. Wartmann also sees great potential in digital printing, also in the textile segment. “Especially in interior design, this segment still offers large growth opportunities. One trend clearly indicates that customers are not interested in a single product but in solutions tailored to their needs. This is a challenge especially for manufacturers. Integration in existing industrial workflows is one of the key concepts here.”

At viscom companies again demonstrate that they have many innovative answers to current challenges and trends. Many new printing machines as well as improved units will be on display. NEOFLEX Printer from Bavaria is a case in point. For this year’s viscom, Managing Director Daryl Gooley announces as many as three novelties in the UV-LED machines segment, two flatbed printers and one roll-to-roll unit. A highlight will be a printer capable of printing 1300 x 800 mm formats on materials with a thickness of up to 300 mm.

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