Andy Thomas: Digital printing at Labelexpo

Digital printing has matured on the two major toner platforms (HP Indigo and Xeikon) into a high quality, repeatable alternative – and complement – to conventional offset and high quality UV flexo, and now the emphasis is on more flexible converting platforms and automating workflow onto and off the press. 

I did not notice a real jump in inkjet quality since the last Labelexpo, but truly significant developments were the integration of in-line laser die-cutting on the EFI 4900 system – creating a true variable print and converting system – and the move by suppliers like Durst and Stork to eight inkjet heads. This opens up all sorts of possibilities in terms of extended gamut printing and even the incorporation of digital varnishing (currently seen in the Durst Rotoworx digital finishing line).  

The debate between in-line and off-line finishing is still being fought out in the digital arena, but the advent of fully commercialized laser die-cutting and inkjet varnishing (and metallics one day?) could tilt the balance in favor of in-line. 

Andy Thomas
Group managing editor
Labels & Labeling