Flint Ink unveiled a new hybrid UV ink at Graph Expo in Chicago.


The firm claimed that the Gemini ink system "marries the best attributes of conventional offset and typical UV inks into one formula".


"It's got the chemical properties of both inks," said director of marketing Steve D'Angelo.


The firm said Gemini had the same level of aesthetic gloss and durability of conventional UV, but needed only one UV lamp at the end of the printing process to render the cure. However, it recommended an overprint varnish prior to UV exposure to maximise scratch resistance.


Gemini runs with conventional plates, rollers and solutions and will be manufactured in four-colour process, Hexachrome and other Pantone formulations.


D'Angelo said it would be available in the UK in six months having been successfully beta-tested in the US. Although he could not yet give a price, he said the ink would be less expensive than conventional UV inks.


"Gemini ink enables fast turnaround of UV-quality work without a significant investment in new equipment," D'Angelo added.


Flint Ink said that Gemini could produce a UV finish on a wide range of substrates.


Story by John Davies