The machine, described as a 'print factory', was unveiled at the Paris All4Pack expo last month in a configuration comprising six combined B1 inkjet and embellishment functions: white UV pigment ink, 2D/3D UV clear varnish ink, aqueous CMYK printing ink, inline substrate sheet priming, LED, IR and UV curing, and variable foil embossing.
The new system from French manufacturer MGI won All4Pack's 2018 Innovation Award and will begin shipping in June 2019. It will be available in a range of formats depending on which of the many optional functions customers require.
MGI marketing manager Clémence Mathieu said: “The AlphaJet answers the demands of printers to reduce their total process time by integrating different printing and embellishment processes that were produced on different equipment or by subcontractors onto the same production line.
“It represents a revolution of the production process by simplifying and optimising production processes and workflows. It is offering better turnaround cycle times, reducing the number of operators needed, reducing footprints within factories, reducing production and setup time.
“Further advantages to the client include eliminating the need to outsource, eliminating the cost of consumables such as plates, tooling, screens and dies, offering return on investment and making variable data-based production possible.”
Designed for the printing and embellishing of packaging, boxes and commercial print jobs, the AlphaJet uses Memjet DuraLink printheads to print at resolutions up to 1,600dpi. It can reach print speeds up to 1,800sph on an array of substrates including corrugated flute board, paper, plastic and synthetic materials.
Its versatile substrate management capabilities also allow for work on rigid materials such as wood, metal and glass, with a circular transport carousel and intelligent tray feeding system for multi-directional ink application.
