Latex flatbed from HP makes Fespa debut

The HP Latex R2000 hybrid prints 2.5m by "as long as you want"

HP has introduced the first flatbed printer to use its latex printing technology in the form of the R2000, a 2.5m width hybrid that prints on media up to 5cm thick and also offers white ink capability.

Launched today at Fespa, the new 88sqm/h (49sqm/h in 6-pass indoor applications) printer brings the attributes of latex print to rigid media, where it is said by HP to offer better colour vibrancy than UV-based alternatives as well as preserving the surface characteristics and texture of the underlying substrate.

Joan Pérez Pericot, global head of HP's large format business, described the printer as offering 'unprecedented quality in rigid print' and said that the white ink will not yellow over time, making it more suitable for long-duration installations. A recirculation system that uses both "macro" and "micro" techniques aims to keep the white ink fresh and the white head can be "parked" to minimise waste during periods of production where it is not required.

The new ink formulation includes various optimisers and an optional overcoat for durability. It operates at lower temperatures than previous latex incarnations, extending the range of media with which it may be used. A number of preventative maintenance features are included to minimise downtime.

The R2000 has a belt system with 14 vacuum zones that Mr Pérez Pericot said combines 'the best of both' belt and gantry systems in terms of productivity and accuracy, enabling flexible media to be printed as well as rigid, so that the one ink technology can be used with a wide range of media across mixed campaigns.

HP also introduced a jumbo roll feeder for the 3800 Latex printer, allowing rolls of media up to 1.2 tonnes and 1.2m in diameter to be handled. A new series of high quality Z-series photo printers has also been introduced, including new pixel-by-pixel print enhancement and the addition of a vertical trimmer for improved productivity.

Pricing of the R2000 hybrid was indicated to be "close to" £200,000 and deliveries are expected in June.

Source:printandpaper.com