Xeikon has developed a new option for printers looking to enhance and increase their range of inkjet-printed labels, combining its X-800 workflow and PantherCure UV inks to create a tactile layer.
This is responsible for a so-called ‘haptic effect’ in print, noted Xeikon, with printers able to create labels with enhanced tactility, textures and a luxury feel utilising the new option. The beer, beverage, food, and health and beauty markets are identified as viable targets for such labels.
No modifications are required to the pre-press file.
Jeroen Van Bauwel, director of product management at Xeikon, explained, ‘The technology generating the tactile and textured layer is embedded in the Panther’s X-800 workflow. It is the brand owners and designers who define the structure, shape and form of the design. When the file is received, the workflow automatically recognises the elements of the design and generates the information required to drive the printhead – that’s what creates the haptic effect in print on the end product.’
In order to further optimise the workflow of its Panther technology, Xeikon has developed automated optimisation of the white ink layer, embedded in the X-800 workflow. When producing labels on clear facestocks, an opaque white is required to make the design standout. A result can be varying ink layer thicknesses across the web. An uneven thickness of the ink layer will generate a telescoping effect on the printed rolls. In the past, press operators have overcome this by printing smaller rolls, resulting in more frequent roll changes and extra waste in material and time, noted Xeikon. One option to overcome this has been to spend extra time in pre-press to reduce the amount of white required.
This time-consuming pre-press work can now be handled in a fully automated way by the X-800 digital front-end without intervention at any stage in the production process. The X-800 automatically reduces the white layer. The extent of reduction will depend on the colours that come on top of it.
Van Bauwel concluded, ‘Xeikon continues to work towards excellence to enhance every facet of its portfolio. We continue to look for opportunities to make savings on costs and time. By improving each small step of the process, we can make a big difference to the overall production process and reduce manufacturing costs. Achieving haptic effects in print through the unique capabilities of our X-800 workflow and ink optimisation not only boosts and increases the range of possible applications but allows printers to streamline their operations.’
