The HD-LED coating machine, the product of collaboration between Plockmatic and designer Tony Michiels, had previously been sold under license from Michiels’ company SP Tec Spare Parts International.

The two-man operation, consisting of Michiels and Marc Prade, systems software engineer and support for the company, has been folded into the Plockmatic group and will continue to support growth of the company’s LED coating business from within the group.

The acquisition of the Belgian firm was completed on 14 February. Plockmatic said the purchase would help the group boost sales volumes of the lower-carbon coating technology.

“With the acquisition of the LED coating IP and technology, we are well-positioned to expand our capabilities, better serve our customers, and extend our reach across key markets,” said Jan Marstorp, CEO of Plockmatic Group.

“We remain committed to providing sustainable and reliable solutions that meet the evolving needs of the digital printing industry.”

The machine, marketed under both Plockmatic and Morgana brands, and available in- and off-line, claims lower power usage and emissions than traditional coating technology, as well as being significantly cheaper than traditional lamination.

The machines are capable of running at up to 45m/min, or faster with a second lamp, and use 40% less power to cure compared to open lamp systems, according to Plockmatic.

A duplex coating option is also available on the machines.

Earlier this year, Plockmatic merged its UK arms Intec and Morgana into a single company under the Morgana banner as part of a strategic push for growth in the UK market.