The Chesham-based digital printer, which claims credit as the first business dedicated to digitally printed decals for glass partitions, has begun the process of replacing a fleet of older Mimakis.

First to go was one of a pair of 15-year-old Mimaki JV300-160s, replaced by the Colorado M3W in November. A second Colorado will follow soon to replace the other JV300; both have been ordered through supplier CMYUK.

Dale Fosbury, joint managing director at Partition, told Printweek that there would be a transition period of several months, as the firm wound down old contracts produced on the Mimakis.

The remaining JV300 will therefore continue printing for a number of clients, including several international banks, to keep the finish and colour matching consistent.

Even with this measured introduction, the new Colorado has made a significant difference for the firm, Fosbury said.

“Basically, it’s faster, better quality, very low operator maintenance, it’s a lot quieter – just generally a great machine.

“It’s moving the company forwards. As we all know, technology changes on a daily basis: keeping up with technology has been an eye-opener for us.”

Printing up to 111sqm/hr, the Colorado M3W is “probably two to three times faster” than the older machines, Stan Bochev, production manager at Partition added.

“The quality is much better, too – and the good thing is the machine takes care of itself on a daily basis.”

He added that the team likewise liked the printer’s fast application of white ink, and ability to print fast gloss.

“Output is instantly dry and ready for further finishing,” he said.

“We prefer to laminate our wall graphics, giving them an added layer of protection so they can easily be wiped down.”

Partition employs 13 at its Chesham factory.