Flint Group Narrow Web launches EkoCure XS

EkoCure XS has been specifically designed for the demands of shrink sleeve applications. Dr Paulo Vieira, director of research and development, Flint Group Narrow Web NA, stated that EkoCure XS is the first shrink sleeve system that is dual-cure, and claimed to provide consistent cure at the highest printing speeds.

Vieira explained: ‘Our scientists have developed a unique combination of photoinitiators and binders allowing the ink to crosslink from top to bottom and therefore cure fully when exposed to the UV wavelengths from either mercury or LED lamps.’

Kelly Kolliopoulos, global marketing director at Flint Group Narrow Web, said: ‘We knew from interviews with clients specializing in short runs of shrink sleeves, that they want a UV dual-curable ink with better adhesion and increased curing speed to boost productivity and reduce yield losses.

‘Our experience in LED and conventional mercury curable ink system technology, combined with our understanding of the shrink market, enabled our R&D team to develop this best-in-class system. EkoCure XS combines the latest ink chemistry including novel binders that provide perfect cure and sufficient flexibility of the cured ink allowing the adhesion to remain fool-proof – especially after post shrink processing is completed. The full range of Pantone shades and opaque white are available.’

Vieira added: ‘In-depth tests comparing EkoCure XS with existing UV curable inks on the market show that EkoCure XS exhibits the best adhesion performance at the highest printing speeds when run using standard 355 W/in mercury lamps. This is in addition to having the best performance when compared to other LED curable products.’

Canada’s Groupe Lelys has been an early adopter of EkoCure XS.

Aureo Azevedo, procurement leader at Groupe Lelys, said: ‘We provide our customers with high quality sleeves and labels, and impeccable service, and we needed a shrink sleeve ink series that would improve our production rates and meet our high quality standards.

‘Overall adhesion and capacity release have been our biggest concerns. EkoCure XS by Flint Group Narrow Web eliminated our adhesion issues, and significantly increased the satisfaction of our customers. Additionally, we are able to run at 15-20 percent faster press speeds now that we print with EkoCure XS.’

Azevedo added: ‘Our colors are brighter and our products are more appealing. We anticipate the expansion of our business via the high quality shrink sleeves our customers expect from Groupe Lelys.’