The specialist in architectural signage bought a new Durst Rho P10 160 UV inkjet printer, replacing a Durst Omega 2, to meet production capacity, said managing director Mark Bartlett.
“Signbox was running the Omega overnight to fulfil jobs on time and the P10 offers more than double the speed with no loss of quality,” he said.
The 1.6m-wide Rho P10 160 can print at speeds of up to 100sqm/hr and resolutions of up to 1,000dpi, printing roll-to-roll up to 2mm thick and on boards up to 40mm thick, with a maximum media weight of up to 20kg.
The machine cost around £155,000 and joins existing kit including HP Latex printers, Summa cutters and laminators. Signbox employs 38 staff and turns over £4m. Its customers include blue-chip and SME companies, architects and designers.
“We have a reputation as a creative partner who provides a total end-to-end signage and visual communications service,” explained Bartlett.
“Pivotal to this service is an in-house production environment that enables complete control over the design process for optimum product quality and delivery.
“Providing such a service relies on two factors: the expertise and skillsets of our design and installation teams, and technology such as the Durst Rho P10 160.”
He added: “It’s critical you never let that level of performance drop and continue to make quality investments that nurture growth.
“We researched to find a true hybrid printer and came back time again to the P10 as it has the same footprint as the Omega 2.
“It prints both rigid panels – acrylic, composite, stove enamelled aluminium and glass – along with roll goods, from clear film to wallpapers and vinyls.
“The P10 consolidates what we currently do, only quicker.”
Bartlett said Signbox will continue to serve the commercial interiors market with environmental graphics and promote bespoke wallpapers.
“This addition to our production line allows us to process multiple orders of various applications such as rigid signage, wall graphics and glass manifestations,” said Bartlett.
“We can do this quickly, to a high standard, and all through the same machine. That sort of production efficiency will hopefully be instrumental in driving further business growth.”
