Konica Minolta targets cut sheet labels with new B2+ inkjet press

Konica Minolta is targeting cut-sheet label applications for the first time with its AccurioJet KM-1e sheetfed inkjet press, the successor to the established KM-1 B2+ LED-UV press for the commercial print market.

Konica Minolta launched AccurioJet KM-1e sheetfed inkjet press targeting cut sheet labels

UV inkjet technology allows the AccurioJet KM-1e to print, without pre-coating, on a wide range of mediaincluding plastic substrates, foiled and embossed paper, metallic media and synthetic substrates. It will accept paper stocks in a thickness range between 0.06mm and 0.6mm. 

The press prints at a resolution of 1200 x 1200 DPI at 3,000 B2+ (585 x 750mm) sheets/hour, with automatic duplex printing at 1,500 s/h.

An exciting development on the KM-1e is a new online interface allowing direct connection to third party post processing lines. Konica Minolta is working closely with partner MGI on integrating MGI’s JetVarnish digital embellishment equipment with the KM1-e, including digital varnishing, digital cold foil and laser cutting. A tape inserter further improves work efficiency in post-processing. 

The AccurioJet KM-1e prints in four colors in a single pass. The imaging system uses Konica Minolta’s patented Dot Freeze technology (DFT) to ‘self-freeze’ ink drops immediately upon contact with the substrate. This works by a rapid change in temperature which turns high-viscosity inks coming from the printhead nozzle into a low-viscosity, immobile ink droplet when it hits the material. Konica Minolta says this eliminates mottling and allows printing on porous materials while extending the CMYK colour gamut, reducing the need for special colors.

‘For label printers, the high image durability without lamination, the ability to print on water-resistant media and compatibility with the MGI JetVarnish will be key factors in adopting the AccurioJet KM-1e press ,‘ said  Nuno Sacadura, inkjet business development manager at Konica Minolta. 

‘The press is also ideal for wider package printing applications with a paper thickness up to 0.6mm and a wide paper size up to 750x585mm.’

In addition, the press’ auto-duplex capability can be used to print booklets for incorporation into self-adhesive booklet label constructions.

Toshi Uemura, executive officer in Konica Minolta’s professional print division, said: ‘The AccurioJet KM-1e is a key pillar in our strategy to help our customers seize the many new opportunities digitalization brings along, supporting the trend to switch from offset to inkjet printing in a fast-growing market.’