3M unveils topcoat that performs across multiple print platforms

The emergence of new digital printing technologies has been dominating the printing industry over the past few years, but there is still a need for traditional flexographic printing methods. 3M Versatile Print Label Materials perform well across several printing technologies such as UV digital inkjet, water-based and UV flexographic, screen, toner-based or thermal transfer.  

 

The new topcoat allows to eliminate pre-treatment steps and is fully compatible with hybrid printing systems. The new technology also delivers on 3M’s commitment to sustainability. It utilizes water-based technology, but it is also press ready to use with many water-based ink systems which help converters eliminate solvent-based manufacturing process steps like priming. 

 

‘One of the industry gaps we recognized early on was ink anchorage when printing via water-based flexographic on gloss film label materials. Improving this was a priority for us and based on internal testing, feedback from press manufacturers, ink suppliers, and graphic converters it appears we have successfully met that objective,’ said Justin Seidel, US marketing manager for 3M Durable Label Materials.

 

'Converters have also realized increased efficiency by not only eliminating process steps, but also rationalizing inventory levels since they can essentially use one durable label material regardless of print method, and with the confidence that it will perform at the high level they expect from 3M,' concluded Seidel.