Mark Andy adds converting features to Digital Pro line

The production digital machine was launched in August 2019 with Digital Pro 1, a roll-to-roll system, and Digital Pro 3, an in-line digital hybrid press with a single flexo station and die-cutting. This product line was built to tackle short run work, and is now capable of additional converting functionalities.

First to market was a second optional print station, available before the print engine on both Digital Pro 3 and Digital Pro 1 models. Chandler Davis, market manager, digital, at Mark Andy, explained: ‘Digital Pro’s base hybrid configuration supports over 80 percent of prime label applications. However, the ability to reverse print or lay flexo inks and coatings prior to digital opens up a lot of opportunity. This especially rings true when you look at the added opacity on clear and metallized films, or jobs that may use multiple spot colors in a single run.’ 

The print station adds 30 inches of machine footprint and uses UV LED curing technology. A private label ink, performance certified by Mark Andy and powered by Siegwerk, ProWhite, is available through Mark Andy Print Products for order.

Alongside the print station, three unique conveyor packages were released to Digital Pro customers and are backwards compatible with over 140 Digital One machines in operation globally. The conveyors perform basic to advanced roll-to-sheet applications, for which Mark Andy reports ‘a surge in demand’ from end users. Operators can cut 2-14in sheets, convey into an output receptacle or shingling table, and batch sheets into set quantities. 

Label manufacturers also now have the option to outfit a bypass module to their Digital Pro 3. With this feature, printers can web the press to bypass the digital engine and use the machine as a standalone finishing machine in addition to a digital label press. The bypass boosts press speeds by 35 percent to 110ft/min (33.5m/min) and reduces cost of operation and consumable wear when the digital module is not printing. 

The last option in this wave of updates is a crush knife assembly for slitting. Crush knives are ideal for many applications and the primary benefit is faster set-up time and cleaner edge slitting. The system supports up to eight knives in the cartridge and achieves a minimum lane size of 0.5in (12.7mm).

All features are available on future press builds and can be added to existing machines in the field.