In a move that replaces the more traditional screen-printed signs, the companies have developed an application that makes use of Czech-based Grapo's Octopus UV printers and specially developed inks, as well as Orafol's microprismatic reflective film.
Traffic signs require high specifications and cannot be produced digitally using normal CMYK inks. Therefore Grapo has modified its Octopus range and developed special inks to address the seven-colour requirement for the signs.
Radim Kralik, chief executive of Grapo Technologies, said: "For printing on Orafol's microprismatic reflective material each colour must have perfect physical specifications to ensure proper reflection."
According to Kralik, the new system will mean traffic sign manufacturers can handle shorter runs, creating a more print-on-demand basis for signs to meet market demand.
The joint system, known as the Oralit UV traffic sign printer, will be sold mainly through Orafol's channels, but Grapo will also have rights to market and sell the machine.
Kralik added: "It is a rewarding experience for Grapo that Orafol's due diligence efforts resulted in the approval of our technology for this highly critical application.
"This is only one example of how our R&D efforts can benefit not only niche markets but the market as a whole in an environment where new applications arise frequently and requirements for existing applications can change quickly."
