HP reinforces digital printing capabilities for labels, flexible packaging and folding cartons

The new HP SmartStream labels and packaging print server, version 4.0, is powered by Esko for simplified color management and automated job preparation. The color engine is said to transform existing processes by automating common (time-consuming) procedures, making time savings of up to 70 percent throughout the entire color management process and enable an average of 25 percent more jobs per shift. The result is quick and accurate color management with fewer manual workflow steps required for efficient, high-quality printing. For added flexibility in file preparation, it also includes new imposition and variable-data tools, including dynamic marks.

The option will be available at Labelexpo Europe in September as an upgrade for all HP Indigo WS6000 and WS4000 series digital presses.

HP is also working with AB Graphic on new end-to-end options for label converting on a wide web. AB Graphics' Digicon 3000, designed to support the HP Indigo 20000 digital press specifications, will be integrated in-line with the press, allowing one pass for optimized production of labels and flexible packaging. Its modular design will enable users to produce labels and a variety of flexible packaging laminates.

It will be showcased at Labelexpo Europe 2013, in Brussels, and will be available upon release of the HP Indigo 20000.

New finishing products powered by Tresu Group and Kama will become available with the HP Indigo 30000 digital press in 2014. Tresu will provide the Tresu iCoat 30000 in-line coater for both UV and aqueous post-print selective coating. Designed to match the HP Indigo 30000 capabilities, it will offer an optimized process for the digital production environment. 

Kama recently developed the stripping and blanking unit (SBU) to complement its existing solutions for folding carton finishing. It contains programmable rollers to strip waste and blank printed boxes without the need for expensive tools or cumbersome manual processes. The SBU joins Kama’s DC 76 die cutter, a die-cutting and foil unit with automatic registration camera for a complete, digital compatible finishing solution.

As a result of rapid growth in digital print, Esko will expand its digital front end (DFE) infrastructure for packaging applications. This should enable seamless integration of the HP Indigo 20000 and 30000 digital presses into the production workflow through the Esko automation engine.

‘Brands of all sizes are increasingly demanding packaging with higher shelf-appeal and are producing more and more packaging using HP Indigo digital printing capabilities, generating demand for our customers,’ said Alon Bar-Shany, vice-president and general manager of HP Indigo Division.

‘Our latest HP Indigo product improvements and workflow solutions help print service providers and converters accommodate production of more jobs with greater efficiency and higher uptime, while supporting a wider range of applications without compromising quality.’