Q I want to print a logo on our latest Dotmeter, but initially I want to do some short runs with different logos, etc, as one-offs. Obviously digital is the way to go, but does anyone offer this service? Perhaps something like a remastered Epson engine/inks for printing on curved plastic surfaces? Or a Domino type unit? I would have thought people who do promotional stuff (golf balls, etc) would use this, but I cannot find a supplier. Any thoughts?
Bob Leslie, Centurfax

A This query came to me via my colleague Barney Cox, and luckily he has already provided a comprehensive answer too, which I repeat here. What you want is probably the next step up from an Epson – for longevity UV-cured inks are the way to go, and something that can handle objects up to a couple of inches thick. Japanese wide-format firms Mimaki, Roland DG and Screen all have kit designed for this sort of print and there’s no reason why a Fujifilm Acuity or Océ Arizona couldn’t do the same job with the right jig to hold the samples. I know that Mimaki has had a lot of success with its machine in the product decoration market in the UK – for, as you say personalised golf balls, but also things like bar pump clips. To expand upon Barney’s answer, I’ve just been passed some information about a company called Micro Matic (01254 267715 www.micro-matic.co.uk), which specialises in producing branded items for the drinks industry. The firm recently bought a new Mimaki machine, although not for 3D object printing in this instance. General contacts for the other firms mentioned are: Hybrid Services (for Mimaki) 01270 501 900 www.hybridservices.co.uk; Roland DG 0845 230 9060 www.rolanddg.co.uk; Screen 01908 848500 www.screeneurope.com; Océ 0870 600 5544 www.oce.co.uk; Fujifilm 01234 245245 graphics.fujifilm.co.uk; Domino 01954 782551 www.domino-printing.com.

Label extras
As predicted, an immediate update is required to the list of integrated label specialists published last week. Mike Hook, commercial director at Exeter-based IOS Integrated, has been in touch about the firm’s offering. IOS specialises in this type of product using sheetfed presses, and reckons it’s the only company in the UK to do so. As such it can produce relatively short runs, and the firm’s range includes integrated label and card products in various formats, using stock weights as heavy as 400gsm. Many thanks for getting in touch. Contact: www.iosintegrated.co.uk 01392 255500.