Michelman has expanded its suite of DigiGuard Plus UV OPV strengtheners, as it looks to provide label printers with the means to better serve high-performance markets with digital print technology.

Specifically, the new DigiGuard Plus range is designed to enhance the mechanical, water, chemical, and thermal durability of digitally printed labels run off HP Indigo presses. These provide greater compatibility for labels printed digitally using the HP Indigo process to endure harsh environments, including extreme heat, chemicals, water, or friction during packing and transport. They also allow HP Indigo digital press owners to increase their addressable market size and produce more with their hardware in applications such as packaging for personal care and cosmetics, household cleaners, automotive oils and fluids, wine and beer bottles, and industrial and electronic equipment.

The expanded range includes:

  • DigiGuard Plus 902, for water, thermal and chemical resistance, and is identified as an economical substitute for DigiGuard UV OPV 901;
  • DigiGuard Plus 920, for mechanical and rub resistance; and
  • DigiGuard Plus 921, for water and chemical resistance.

DigiGuard Plus 920 and DigiGuard Plus 921 can be used in combination to provide mechanical, water and chemical resistance.

Lisa DiGate, global business vice president, HP Indigo at Michelman, said, ‘Michelman has partnered with HP Indigo for nearly 20 years to bring innovation that offers press owners digital print versatility to enter new markets. We are excited to introduce new solutions that protect HP Indigo printed labels, address more demanding label applications, and open up new market opportunities throughout the label industry – for our customers and partners.’

Eli Mahal, head of label and packaging products and solutions at HP Indigo, added, ‘This new technology allows press owners to extend their application range by meeting the industry’s durability and resistance standards for high-performance labels.’

The entire DigiGuard portfolio, which has been designed to improve the performance of UV OPVs when combined with Michelman’s DigiPrime priming products, allows press owners improved ease-of-use by using off-the-shelf varnish with the strengtheners added. Current UV curable OPVs can be used without investing in additional products or finishing equipment. The products’ performance has been tested via the Sutherland Rub, and other ASTM, Finat, bottle-to-bottle and submersion tests.