Domino will be showcasing the latest version of its recently launched K600i single colour piezo ink jet system at Labelexpo Europe. Moving away from remotely mounted individual ink jet print heads to a solution covering the full web with a single digital ink jet module, the UV curable 600dpi K600i operates at double the speed of most high resolution digital systems at 50 to 75 metres per minute.
Designed for sheet or web printing, the K-Series’ variable data printing capability supports barcodes, 2D codes including QR Codes, numbers, graphics, logos and personalised data onto labels, tags, tickets, forms, security products and direct mail.
Key to the appeal of the K600i is its capability to accommodate different print widths by stitching heads across the web. Print widths range from 108mm (4.26”) to 782mm (30.81”), with scalability being achieved by mounting print modules across a bar. Print head alignment and image stitching is achieved through Domino’s i-Tech StitchLink micro-motor controller technology, which allows for easy and accurate set-up of high quality images. The K600i has a native print resolution of 600dpi with three or four greyscales, which combined with its fantastic linear speeds, sets new standards for printing onto a wide range of substrates.
Incorporating Domino’s i-Tech intelligent Technology, the K600i CleanCap automated print head cleaning and capping technology removes the need for daily manual maintenance while reducing risks for print nozzle blockages. When not in operation, the print head is automatically moved into the CleanCap where the head is capped, ready for next use.
In addition, the unique i-Tech ActiFlow ink circulating system lets the UV curable ink move around the print head, even when printing has stopped. This prevents air bubbles becoming lodged within the print head, commonly causing jet-out and print quality degradation, maximising print time while minimising the need for maintenance.
“Demand has been increasing for labelling applications including variable data – from simple stock control, promotional games, anti-counterfeit data through to complete printing of labels for brand owners – and the K600i reflects the increased committment Domino has made to satisfy this demand,” comments Philip Easton, Director of Domino’s Digital printing solutions.
Typical web applications for the K600i include digitally printing single colour language variants for short run production, which helps to reduce complexity, changeover time and inventory requirements compared to conventional flexo solutions, while in the sheet fed arena, the system is ideally suited to sheet-to-sheet game card and security printing applications. In common with all K-series models, the K600i has a compact modular design to facilitate integration with a range of host machines.
The K600i joins a range which includes the K100, K150 and K200 variants. These are available with UV curable and low volatile solvent inks and have been successfully deployed in a variety of applications since its 2006 introduction, such that the range now accounts for and estimated 30% worldwide market share in its target markets.