Electronic Imaging Materials adds mlabel hybrid press

EIM has previously operated two UV inkjet presses, however this will be the first hybrid press incorporating in-line die-cutting. The incorporation of the mprint mlabel press into its production process will be a driver in achieving growth in the industrial/manufacturing and laboratory barcode label markets.

The German-made press, the mLabel, is manufactured by mprint. EIM’s relationship with mprint stemmed from the purchase of a used 8410 thermal transfer with inline die-cutting machine from Markem, in 1998. Years after EIM brought the 8410 online, Markem sold the rights to that product line to mprint. That introduction to mprint led EIM to first purchase one of their refurbished machines, (a used version of their LP-2000), before eventually pursuing their newest piece of variable data equipment, the mlabel.

‘The process of purchasing a new press is often lengthy due to the level of customization, testing, and training involved,’ said EIM president Alex Henkel. ‘That being said, it’s a priority of ours to practice forward thinking, to anticipate what equipment upgrades will help satisfy the future needs of the industry, then plan accordingly. Our implementation of the mLabel hybrid press was strategically timed in such a way.’

The mLabel has variable printing capabilities including 1D/2D barcodes, serialization, and customization data. Print speed can run up to 75 m/min, at a max material width of 250mm. It also features in-line lamination and die cutting. The quality of the prints is considered highly durable, often eliminating the need for additional lamination.

Investing in the mprint’s technology will play a vital role in helping EIM evolve to meet growing customer demands. The mprint’s use of CMYK digital ink will expand current color capabilities, allowing EIM to offer a wider range of color printing options. Incremental LED curing will also result in higher resolution images.