The US-headquartered manufacturer is best known for its range of sheet- and web-fed analogue coating devices.

The firm said its new B1 format ExcelCoat ZRX device would combine its analogue know-how with inkjet technology in one platform.

The ZRX will allow users to apply UV or aqueous flood coating, digital spot coating, and foil stamping in one pass on both coated and uncoated papers.

The inkjet spot coating module can create flat and tactile effects, as well as variable data embellishments.

The hot foil sticks to the digitally varnished area.

H&B said one of the significant advantages of the ZRX was its elimination of the lamination process, “in response to the growing global pushback against single-use plastics”.

“The ZRX allows for remarkable embellishments without the need for the lengthy and costly lamination process, aligning with environmental concerns and consumer preferences,” the firm stated.

President Nick Bruno said H&B was excited to enter a new market with the ZRX.

“This step is a testament to our commitment to innovation and our reputation for building solid and reliable machines,” he said.

“The ZRX is not just a new product; it's a game-changer in the industry, for embellishing both coated and uncoated papers, which has been a challenge up until now."

Running speed and the type of inkjet heads being used were not disclosed.

H&B will take the wraps off the device at Drupa 2024, where it is exhibiting in Hall 16, booth D03.

Drupa 2024 runs from 28 May-7 June at Messe Dusseldorf.