A joint development project between Edale and AB Graphic International (ABG), the Digicon 3000 is a 762 mm wide finishing system that enables printers to convert pressure sensitive labels and flexible packaging printed on the HP Indigo 20000 digital press.
After initial discussions in early 2012, the two companies entered into a collaborative development agreement based on customer demand for a converting system for the soon-to-be-launched Indigo 20000.
Mike Burton, managing director of ABG said, ‘We approached Edale back in May 2012 to discuss supporting the development of this new product. We immediately thought of Edale based on its proven experience in wider webs and flexible packaging.’
The two companies together bring more than 100 years combined technical expertise: ABG having worked with HP for more than 15 years and Edale through its collaboration with Agfa Graphics for more than 12 years. Whilst the Digicon 3000 will be manufactured by Edale, the machine will benefit from the companies combined intellectual property.
‘By working together we have been able to create an advanced product that benefits from the respective technology strengths of Edale and AB Graphic International. As a result the Digicon 3000 is packed with innovations that will serve to enhance and broaden the applications possible in mid web digital label and packaging printing,’ commented James Boughton, managing director of Edale.
Mr Boughton continued, ‘Mike Burton and I were surprised to see how similar our two businesses were; both having dedicated in-house design teams, who have gelled together well during this initial process, and both companies sharing a very similar business practice.’
The HP Indigo 20000 digital press is poised to transform the film and label converting market with its capability to digitally produce the vast majority of label and flexible packaging applications. The press supports a 762 mm wide roll with up to 1,118 mm repeat length, ensuring an easy fit into existing production lines.
The first and second machines have already been sold. The first unit is scheduled for installation at Innovative Labelling Solutions (ILS) in Ohio in December 2013. ILS will be running a label and flexible packaging configuration with the HP Indigo 20000 running inline with the Digicon 3000.
Jay Dollries, owner of ILS, commented, ‘Our long standing partnership with AB Graphic International made it a logical choice as we considered finishing options for the HP Indigo 20000. As with our current Digicon equipment, the Digicon 3000 will provide versatility and accuracy that will keep us well ahead of the technology curve.’ He continued, ‘The partnership between AB Graphic International and Edale, in conjunction with ILS’ involvement in all phases of the Digicon’s development, will result in the most unique, advanced digital finishing line in the marketplace. As ILS continually focuses on growing our presence in the flexible packaging and shrink sleeve marketplaces, the combination of the HP Indigo 20000 and the Digicon 3000 will be one of our major catalysts.’
The Digicon 3000 will run its first live demonstration on the HP stand at Labelexpo in Brussels in September.
The Digicon 3000 is a joint development project between Edale and ABG
