At SGIA Expo 2016, Canon U.S.A. previewed a new UVgel printing technology that they believe will be a game-changer for companies that print graphics on wide-format rolls of flexible media. According to Canon, UVgel will provide the large color gamut of solvent inks combined with the environmental benefits and safety profile of latex and UV inks.
UVgel is a radically new UV curable ink from Canon that instantly gels on contact with the media. This results in precise dot placement and area control for consistent high-quality images at high speed.
According to Canon, ultra-thin ink dispersion and a low ink-consumption rate can provide up to a 40 percent reduction in printing costs compared to eco-solvent and latex inks.
Canon plans to use UVgel technology in a new line of roll-to-roll large-format printers that can provide cost-effective, non-toxic, durable, colorfast, high-quality prints on flexible materials such as banner materials, display films, and canvas.
The first printer to use Canon UVgel technology will be a high productivity, 64 inch roll-to-roll printer. It is scheduled for release in the spring of 2017.
Advanced Hardware
The Canon UVgel technology platform incorporates several new hardware technology developments.
Advanced, next-generation piezoelectric printhead technology will employ patented acoustic sampling technology that monitors nozzle performance on-the-fly during printing.
A unique LED UV curing sub-system will operate completely independently from the printing system. By ensuring identical jetting-to-curing timing for every droplet, this sub-system will deliver unprecedented uniformity across the printed image.
The LED-based UV system cures the gel without adding heat to the media. This will enable UVgel systems to print on even on thin, heat-sensitive flexible media.
Continuous, on-the-fly, nozzle performance compensation will facilitate confident unattended printing and reduced print waste.
According to Toyotsugu Kuwamura, executive vice president and general manager, Business Imaging Solutions Group, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “This new technology will power an upcoming generation of roll-to-roll printers that will help our customers increase their print production efficiency while lowering their operating costs, enabling them to profitably grow their business.”
According to the Canon press release, the company’s significant investment in UVgel technology demonstrates Canon’s continued commitment to be a leader in digital graphics markets.
Canon also makes the Océ Arizona series of UV flatbed printers for rigid sheets.