Michelman gives HP Indigo users screen printing alternative

In conjunction with HP, Michelman has developed DigiPrime 5000, a water-based primer that can be used by owners and operators of HP Indigo sheet-fed s2000 and s3050 presses. The new primer is optimized for screen printing on synthetic substrates and replaces Topaz 17.

Michelman says DigiPrime 5000 has a longer product and shelf life, produces Indigo ink transfer and adhesion to the substrate while improving rub resistance, and produces better screen printing finishes on dense mesh applications.

For many HP Indigo sheet-fed press users, screen printing is the only feasible method for optimizing substrates. Many of these customers print on soft vinyl, one of the toughest substrates to optimize due to the high level of plasticizers. Previously, solvent-based Topaz 17 was their only available primer option. Users can also use DigiPrime 5000 to optimize PE, PET, PP, PLA, PS, PA and PVC films as well as uncoated, matte, semi-gloss and gloss papers.

Typical applications on the s2000 and s3050 presses range from printed graphic attachments and overlays for applications like membrane switches, panels, keypads and mousepads, to plastic cards for ID, driver's licenses and financial applications.