The UJF-3042 MkII and the UJF-6042 MkII are the successors to the UJF-3042HG and UJF-6042 models respectively.
The devices can print at maximum speeds of 2.48sqm/hr and 3.52sqm/hr respectively, which represents a 20% improvement in speed over previous models, as well on objects up to 153mm thick.
Mimaki EMEA general marketing manager Mike Horsten said: “The accuracy and the print quality is better than the original series. I’ve seen some 2pt and 3pt text printed and it was amazingly sharp, something that’s quite difficult to achieve on the original models.
“The higher speed is also an advantage. Some customers want higher productivity because they’re using it in the retail environment and delivering personalisation for waiting customers who want it now, not in three hours.”
The new machines can be used with a wide array of different inksets. LUS-120 inks are suitable for printing on soft material surfaces such as membrane switches or smartphone wallet cases, with their ability to stretch up to 170% without cracking when pressed or folded.
LUS-150 inks, which will be available for the new printers in the near future, are suitable for indoor signs, trophies and other acrylic items due to their strong adhesion properties.
Additionally, the LH-100 rigid inks are suitable for accessories or stationery products that need to withstand high levels of abrasion. Used alongside Mimaki’s PR-200 inkjet primer, these inks can also be used to print on glass, metal and resins, which the firm said has traditionally been difficult for UV curable inks.
Mimaki Clear Control (MCC), a clear varnish ink, can be used to both highlight areas with spot or flood coating as well as for embossing with multiple passes.
The included RasterLink digital front end software features preset Mimaki Expand Colour, which is said to deliver upgraded colour representation for more vibrant, solid colour and brighter skin tones.
Automatic detection and cleaning of clogged nozzles allows reliable continual printing and reduces wastage while Mimaki Circulation Technology (MCT) circulates white ink at regular intervals to prevent pigment sedimentation that can lead to nozzle malfunction.
Another new addition is a fully covered print table designed to improve safety while maintaining print quality by keeping dust and other contaminants out of the system.
“We put the covers on because we believe that these printers will now run more into the workflow on the industry side. Industry is not always the cleanest environment and we needed to protect the printers for the future,” said Horsten.
“In the past, we weren’t really seeing the other printers go directly into workflow, but instead into a separate space or office space. But the demand is for them to go more into the workflow.”
Pricing has not yet been revealed for the devices, which will be launched at Viscom Paris next week and are expected to be commercially available from around the end of October.
