The new direct-to-board Nozomi C18000 Plus features new transport and vacuum bed systems that enable the 75m/min LED inkjet press to “eliminate board warping” and run at higher speeds with fewer interruptions.

While the Plus features the same headline top speed and 1.8x3m maximum board format as the original model, which was launched at Drupa in 2016, it is stacked with raft of features to increase productivity and flexibility.

As well as upgraded transport and vacuum systems, other enhancements include an improved post-print inspection system to highlight nozzle issues and print defects, automated job continuation in sequence for interrupted variable data work and a 90-second rush proofing function.

And while it has the same CMYK plus orange, violet or white options, it now has new coater options, which include a quick change anilox coater.

It also comes with a new Fiery NZ-1000 digital front end (DFE) that, according to EFI offers 5% speed bump for job processing. The new DFE also features Smart Ink Estimator and Fiery Edge profiling technology to further reduce ink costs and boost margins.

Other Fiery features that are now included with the Nozomi C18000 Plus include: JobFlow Base, which automates repetitive job setups; Spot Pro, for colour accuracy and FreeForm Create, a visual variable-data print creation application.

“Without exception, users worldwide consistently achieve double-digit increases in production year over year thanks to the Nozomi C18000’s ability to meet or exceed brands’ strict throughput and quality requirements,” said Evandro Matteucci, vice president and general manager, Packaging and Building Materials, EFI.

“The Plus printer, its superior Fiery DFE enhancements, and our new, comprehensive service, support and training offering extend the remarkable market advantages our customers have today.”

According to EFI, several existing customers have already ordered the retrofittable Plus upgrade to their installed C18000s with US-based display and packaging manufacturer Complete Design & Packaging being one of the first to upgrade its machine.

“The new transport of the ‘Plus’ version is a game changer,” said Complete president Howard Bertram.

“It has provided consistent throughput at higher speeds and with fewer interruptions, and with enhanced print quality. It is now definitely the machine we knew we were purchasing.”

UK Nozomi users include The Delta Group and Durham Box, with McGowans in Ireland the first to install a machine for display graphics.