Edale and AB Graphic partner on Digicon 3000

Edale and AB Graphic are to launch the Digicon 3000, a 762mm-wide finishing system that enables printers to convert flexible packaging and pressure-sensitive labels printed on the new HP Indigo 20000 digital press.

The two companies bring more than 100 years combined technical expertise, with AB Graphic having worked with HP for more than 15 years, and Edale, which has worked with Agfa Graphics for more than 12 years.

After initial discussions in early 2012, Edale and AB Graphic entered into a collaborative development agreement based on customer demand for a converting system for the soon-to-be-launched HP Indigo 20000.

The Digicon 3000 features: a dual function unwind station, for unwinding operations and HP Indigo 20000 rewinding, plus an interface module with buffer for in-line operation; pre-treatment, with web guiding, web cleaning and corona treatment options; a print station, using either full or semi rotary flexo, and an optional gravure station for adhesive coating; drying, using UV or irAIR technology; lamination, using solvent-, UV- or water-based laminates, plus cold foil casting and curing; semi rotary die-cutting; slitting; and rewinding.

Whilst the Digicon 3000 will be manufactured by Edale, the machine will benefit from the companies combined intellectual property.

Mike Burton, managing director of AB Graphic, said: ‘We approached Edale back in May 2012, to discuss supporting the development of this new product. We immediately thought of Edale based on its proven experience in wider webs and flexible packaging.’

Edale managing director James Boughton said: ‘By working together we have been able to create an advanced product that benefits from the respective technology strengths of Edale and AB Graphic.

‘As a result, the Digicon 3000 is packed with innovations that will serve to enhance and broaden the applications possible in mid web digital label and packaging printing.

‘Mike Burton and I were surprised to see how similar our two businesses were; both having dedicated in-house design teams, who have gelled together well during this initial process, and both companies sharing a very similar business practice.’

The HP Indigo 20000 offers the capability to digitally produce various label and flexible packaging applications. The press supports a 762mm-wide roll with up to 1,118mm repeat length.

It has been launched in tandem with the 30000 model for folding carton printing, and the 10000 for commercial printing applications.

The first unit is scheduled for installation at Innovative Labelling Solutions (ILS) in Ohio, US in December. ILS will be running a label and flexible packaging configuration with the HP Indigo 20000 installed in-line with the Digicon 3000.

Jay Dollries, owner of ILS, said: ‘Our long-standing partnership with AB Graphic made them a logical choice as we considered finishing options for the HP Indigo 20000.  As with our current Digicon equipment, the Digcon 3000 will provide versatility and accuracy that will keep us well ahead of the technology curve.

‘The partnership between AB Graphic and Edale, in conjunction with ILS’s involvement in all phases of the Digicon’s development, will result in the most unique, advanced digital finishing line in the marketplace. As ILS continually focuses on growing its presence in the flexible packaging and shrink-sleeve marketplaces, the combination of the HP Indigo 20000 and the Digicon 3000 will be one of our major catalysts.’

The Digicon 3000 will run its first live demonstration on the HP stand at Labelexpo Europe in Brussels, running across September 24-27.

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