Extending the successful Jeti Titan series of modular UV-curable wide-format printers, Agfa Graphics is launching the Jeti TitanX, which will make its
debut at FESPA 2013 in London. Jeti TitanX, with its proven moving table flatbed technology, is designed as a versatile wide format printing platform that
caters for both higher productivity and superior print quality with extreme color accuracy.
Configured for the ultimate in flexibility, the Jeti TitanX offers the operator fast switching from four (CMYK) to six-color (high fidelity CMYKLcLm) imaging and
back on a job-by-job basis. In both modes it offers the versatility of white ink with eight dedicated white print heads out of the total of 48 configured to
generate exceptional levels of productivity.
The only true industrial flat-bed in its class, Agfa Graphics' Jeti TitanX is ideal for the production of close-viewed output such as quality point-of-purchase as
well as high resolution backlit applications (day-and-night). Additionally, the printer is designed for high productivity wide-format applications such as
general displays.
The Jeti TitanX has a generous bed size of 3.1 x 2m with the table finished to incredibly tight tolerances over the whole surface. It is built on a robust steel
frame, complemented by advanced linear motion technology for superior production accuracy. The impact of microscopic variations is further minimized
through the Topology Optimization, a powerful set of measurement and jetting compensation algorithms. An optical camera scans the bed to create
a topographical map of the imaging area. In the background, the algorithms make velocity compensation calculations to ensure optimized dot
placement. The result is a spectacular image quality whether printing uni-directionally or bi-directionally.
For greater productivity Jeti TitanX utilises Agfa Graphics' fast curing Anuvia UV-curable inks that are designed specifically for high-end production
platforms. Anuvia inks offer great resistance to chemicals and abrasions plus good adhesion on the substrate. Their sharp, vibrant colors combine
with high fade resistance and excellent lightfastness.
Since the original launch of Agfa Graphics' Jeti Titan the modular range has evolved to incorporate seven different configurations, each based on the
same strong technology which has evolved to meet customer requirements. The Jeti TitanX now addresses speed and quality needs, as well as the
ability to work with a broad range of rigid and flexible substrates in a choice of print modes, according to the type of application.
The Jeti TitanX is at display at FESPA 2013 in ExCeL London Exhibition Centre South Hall Stand C30S, London 25-29 June 2013
Agfa Pitman Adds New Duratex PolyFab Polyester-Coated Fabric to
Media Portfolio
At ISA, Agfa Pitman is expanding the Duratex line with its first fabric for UV curable, latex, solvent and eco-solvent inkjet printers. Duratex PolyFab, a
high quality, polyester-coated fabric, offers customers the opportunity to enter new markets.
Duratex PolyFab is 100% knitted, crease-free and coated for vibrant imaging. The light-weight fabric can be cold cut and stretches easily for expansion
over frame structures, including display frame systems, outdoor signage and trade show displays.
"Duratex PolyFab is ideal for many fabric printing applications, including indoor signage, light boxes, pop-up display systems, inflatables, tents or
outdoor umbrellas," said Larry Salomon, Vice President Wide Format, Agfa Pitman, North America. "It is extremely flexible, water repellent and durable."
Duratex PolyFab is available in two different size rolls, 59" x 165 feet and 118" x 330 feet.
Agfa Graphics Showcases New Capabilities of the :Jeti 3020 Titan
Agfa Graphics (booth #2059) announced today that the :Jeti 3020 Titan, a field-upgradeable, UV-curable wide-format inkjet printing system will be on
display and available for demonstrations at SGIA 2012. The 48-head :Jeti 3020 Titan can produce light cyan and light magenta and therefore deliver
more photorealistic images so print service providers can be more profitable and grow.
The :Jeti 3020 Titan's industrial-strength platform can handle heavy workloads in a 24/7 environment. It offers rugged construction with operator-
friendly features. A flat-to-roll option supports rolls up to 250 pounds and 126 inches wide so users can purchase media more economically and
compete in more markets.
The versatile :Jeti 3020 Titan can be configured with 16- to 48 inkjet printing heads, so as business grows, it will meet productivity demands. The
maximized 48-head version offers CMYKLcLm ink for optimum productivity and quality in both rigid and roll-fed media modes.
"Productivity, upgradeability and reliability are key features of the :Jeti 3020 Titan," said Deborah Hutcheson, Director of Marketing, Agfa Graphics,
North America. "The :Jeti 3020 Titan uses Agfa Graphics' high pigment load :Anuvia UV-curable inks, offering high image quality with a thin ink
lay-down for the lowest cost per square foot. Also, the inks have a very wide gamut, which matches or exceeds industry targets. The eight pico
liter droplet size accurately produces fine text and sharp images."
The :Jeti 3020 Titan flatbed has a maximum print area of 122 x 79 inches and is equipped with retractable registration pins for accurate substrate
positioning. For added productivity, the :Jeti 3020 Titan can print three 61 x 41-inch boards side-by-side, simultaneously.
The :Jeti 3020 Titan features high-quality print resolution at true 1200 dpi. It offers printing speeds up to 2,282 ft²/hr (212 m²/hr) and handles media
up to 2 inches thick (5 cm) and spanning 124 x 81 inches (3.15 x 2.05 m).
Entry-Level: Anapurna Flatbed UV Inkjet System from Agfa Graphics
Agfa Graphics North America, a leader in inkjet imaging and substrates, will feature several printing systems and unique applications at the 2012
International Sign Expo being held in Orlando, Florida, from March 22nd through the 24th (booth #1036).
Agfa Graphics will have the entry-level :Anapurna M2540 FB, which is making its first Sign Expo appearance. The :Anapurna M2540 FB is a time saving
system featuring revolutionary quick-change vacuum bed technology, six colors (CMYKLcLm) and white ink.
Designed to accommodate the growing market needs for printing on rigid substrates, the :Anapurna M2540 FB has a maximum print speed of 484 ft2/hr and
can print sizes of 8.3' x 5' with substrates up to 1.77" thick. The UV-curable ink and fast, efficient curing is ideal for printing on glass, ceramics and
wood, making the :Anapurna M2540 FB an excellent solution for architectural and interior decor as well as exterior signs and displays.
Additionally, the Agfa Graphics booth will feature the 36-head :Jeti 3020 Titan FTR (flat-to-roll), a field-upgradeable (16 heads in base configuration,
expandable up to 48), grand-format, flatbed UV inkjet printing system that offers white ink and ten different levels of speed and quality capabilities.
The :Jeti 3020 Titan has a maximum print area of 124" x 79.5". Its Ricoh Gen 4 grayscale print heads offer fast, high-quality CMYK output and 1200
dpi photorealistic image quality. Maximum speed of the UV-inkjet system is 2,430 ft2/hr.
Show attendees will also be able to experience Agfa Graphics' popular "Application Zone." Featuring Agfa's inkjet know-how, the Application
Zone demonstrates how to create a wide variety of indoor and outdoor products as well as those relating to home decor and retail settings. Sample
output includes flooring, wall paper, tabletop design, curtain panels, retail POP, backlit displays, window graphics, vehicle wraps and more.
"Unquestionably, Agfa Graphics has the broadest inkjet portfolio in the industry and we creatively show print service providers how they can leverage
inkjet to be more profitable," said Deborah Hutcheson, director of Marketing, Agfa Graphics, North America. "From ink to engines to media, the Agfa
Graphics team of experts, specialists and technicians can help answer the most challenging customer demands and help grow your business."
Agfa Graphics Adds MicroGREEN's Eco-Friendly Display Media to its
Portfolio
Agfa Graphics, North America, today announced that the company has teamed up with MicroGREEN Polymers, Incto offer a new, alternative,
eco-friendly media to commercial and display printers. MicroGREEN (www.microgreeninc.com) of Arlington, WA, manufactures InCycleTM,
created with recycled PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) material to be used for signs and displays. It is available in sheets or rolls of varying
thickness and flexural stiffness, with a bright white, highly printable surface, making InCycle ideal for large signs, wall hangings, printed panels,
and many other applications.
InCycle sheets come with a number of sustainability benefits when compared to conventional substrates. InCycle is:
· made with 50% recycled content
· 80% less dense than a solid plastic sheet
· 100% recyclable
· light-weight leads to huge shipping savings
· 100% weatherproof
· available in a variety of superior customizable surface finishes, from glossy to matte
"Pitman, an Agfa Company, is proud to partner with MicroGREEN to offer InCycle to our customers. InCycle has been proven to lower the environmental
impact of retail signage, a viable solution for the retail industry," said Larry Salomon, vice-president of wide format display graphics, Agfa Graphics,
North America. "InCycle joins our own premium, waterproof eco-friendly media, Synaps UV, as an alternative for environmentally-responsible display
printing."
"Billions of square feet of signage are put up and thrown away at retail each year. Using recycled content lowers the environmental impact of this
signage, as does reducing the source material through our lower density," said MicroGREEN's Chris Jacobs, director of marketing and product
development. "The crowning achievement of our material in this application is its ability to be recycled in a closed loop system."
InCycle is naturally bright white without the addition of pigments, so graphics and type are crisp and clear. InCycle can hold a crease and be formed
using standard equipment and it can be shaped on convolute or thermoform machines. InCycle's structure makes it possible to emboss or deboss
on one surface, leaving the other flat and printable, unlike other media on the market.
Agfa Graphics to Extend New Generation Industrial Wide Format
Solutions with :Anapurna M1600
Agfa Graphics introduces the latest model in the popular :Anapurna line ofwide format printing systems, the M1600. This new UV-curable printer
delivers the productivity of the :Anapurna M2050 engines in a 63-inch width.:Anapurna M1600 users benefit from white ink printing and Agfa's
flexible G2 inks. The :Anapurna M1600, which is making its North America debut, is designed for applications on the latest rigid substrates including
mirrors or plexi-glass and roll-to-roll substrates that demand more flexibility including banners and exhibition graphics. The new :Anapurna M1600 will
be on display at Agfa's booth (#4153) during ISA's Sign Expo 2011 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, April 28-30.
Reliable white printing
The new :Anapurna M1600 answers customer demands for the white ink printing capabilities already proven in the popular :Anapurna Mw and
features the speed associated with the :Anapurna M2050 and :Anapurna M2.
The white ink function offers print service providers new possibilities for printing on transparent material. It's also an ideal solution for backlit or combined
front and backlit applications. Digital white can even be used as a spot color to focus on certain parts of an image. To ensure maximum reliability while
printing with white, the :Anapurna M1600 has a dedicated white ink mixing and circulation system.
Efficient Production
Designed as a robust production unit, :Anapurna M1600 combines quality output with ease of use for all types of applications up to a width of 62.2-inches
and a thickness of 1.77-inches on rigid media. Flexible media handling and a two-zone vacuum table give additional strength for dealing with a wide
range of substrates varying in size and thickness.
Built on the proven :Anapurna M2050 platform, it offers the same consistent high output quality for applications where detailed rendering, graduated tints
and sharp text are essential.
"The :Anapurna M1600 is a production workhorse designed to guarantee consistent high quality output even under peak workloads," said Deborah
Hutcheson, director of marketing, Agfa Graphics, North America. "This system gives the best-fit printing mode because every application requires a
particular balance between speed and quality. We also made the :Anapurna M1600 easy to use. Media loading and changing from rigid to flexible
materials is fast and straightforward and the system features a very intuitive operator interface. We integrated all the best features from the :Anapurna
M2050."
The :Anapurna M1600's four-color (CMYK) plus white capability and its 12 picoliter print-heads produce high quality solids and tonal rendering at up to
720 x 1440 dpi with vibrant colors and a wide color gamut typical for UV curable inks. White is printed in-line with the other colors, so printing pre-white,
post-white or spot white is carried out in the same printing pass. Typical throughput speeds of the :Anapurna M1600 are 305 ft2/hour, optimized for
poster and banner production while higher speeds (in "Express" mode) up to 500 ft2/hour can be easily obtained.
The addition of the :Anapurna M1600 to Agfa Graphics' wide-format portfolio is indicative of the company's continuing investment and commitment to the
digital print market which now includes solutions for all applications and budgets.
:Jeti 3020 Titan Flatbed from Agfa Graphics Now Offered with "FTR"
Flat-to-Roll Option
Agfa Graphics has announced another significant enhancement to its broad portfolio of UV-curable inkjet solutions with the launch of the "FTR" or
flat-to-roll option for the landmark grand-format :Jeti 3020 Titan flatbed at the International Sign Expo Show (ISA) in Las Vegas. The :Jeti 3020 Titan
has the ability to print on a wide range of uncoated and coated roll media for printing banners and larger images up to 100 feet or even longer. The
FTR option supports industry standard 126 inch-wide media. The new :Jeti 3020 Titan with FTR option makes its global debut at Agfa's booth
(#4153) during ISA's Sign Expo 2011 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, April 28-30.
The FTR option is field-upgradeable and allows :Jeti 3020 Titan users to address new applications at any time. With the option installed, output is
produced with the same high quality and resolution as on rigid materials, without losing speed. As the FTR option supports rolls up to 750 pounds,
print service providers can buy media more economically and compete in more markets. :Jeti 3020 Titan uses UV-curable inks and prints on a wide
range of uncoated and coated roll media types such as banner media, vinyl, polyester, canvas, paper, self-adhesive PVC, PVC/PA-transparent
media and more.
"The FTR option has been a highly successful addition to our :Jeti 1224 HDC (high definition color) true flatbed. We developed the same functionality for
our :Jeti 3020 Titan in response to demand expressed by print service providers who wanted extra flexibility from their equipment," said Deborah
Hutcheson, director of marketing, Agfa Graphics, North America. "Our customers know that Agfa protects their investment. With the scalability of the
:Jeti 3020 Titan and now the field upgradeable flat-to-roll option, our customers will maintain a competitive edge with an option that will provide
maximum flexibility."
The Agfa Graphics :Jeti 3020 Titan true flatbed features a maximum print area of 126" x 79" and Ricoh Gen 4 greyscale print heads resulting in fast,
high quality CMYK output with the ability to deliver 1200 dpi for photorealistic image quality. For upgradeability, users can start with a base configuration
of 16 heads and upgrade all the way to 48 heads at any time to achieve productivity up to 2,432 sq. feet per hour. Head configuration choices include
a doubling of the CMYK set for higher throughput, white and varnish for artistic effects and even higher quality with light cyan and light magenta. To
extend color gamut, orange and green can be added.
Agfa Graphics' :Jeti 3348 HSS, Breakthrough Drying Technology
Delivers New Class of Ultra High Speed Solvent Printing
With many users continuing to rely on the low throughput costs and vibrant colours available on solvent-based wide-format digital platforms, Agfa Graphics
introduces the :Jeti 3348 HSS which integrates the company's revolutionary new TurbTech drying technology. The :Jeti 3348 HSS is unquestionably the
fastest 3.25 m roll-to-roll printer in its class. Its 300 dpi resolution and four colour output makes it a highly productive solution for billboards, banners and
posters, complemented by low running costs.
Agfa Graphics' :Jeti 3348 HSS, produces vibrant colours and durable results for interior and exterior applications. It has been refined with the addition of a
special back-lit option. The true back-lit option enables printing on both sides of the media, delivering brilliant backlit signage. Using specialized custom
software and a camera, the true back-lit option tracks your print and compensates on the fly to provide perfect registration. The inclusion of mesh capability
with a collector trough now means that porous materials, such as meshes and digital textiles, can be printed on the :Jeti 3348 HSS. This means that the
printer is ideal for producing scaffold and building wraps as well as applications such as perimeter fencing and stadium graphics that need to be permeable
to wind conditions.
By incorporating the TurbTech drying technology, the :Jeti 3348 HSS marries conventional mesh back-heaters with a front drying system. This utilises non-
laminar flow warm air drying technology, which lowers vapour pressures and delivers high speed drying, vital when working at high speeds with low cost
materials.
The Agfa Graphics :Jeti 3348 HSS benefits from the latest linear motor drives which deliver digitally accurate high-speed motion at up to 2 m/second.
Formerly only used on :Jeti UV-curable printers, this feature provides the speed and accuracy essential when outputting jobs at production speeds of
232.25 square m/hour (2,500 square feet/hour).
Designed to handle low cost materials, such as woven polyethylene (PE), Agfa Graphics has introduced a vacuum plate under the imaging zone of the
:Jeti 3348 HSS. This results in increased stability and, particularly with thinner media, eliminates wrinkles and edge curl, minimising the likelihood of head
strikes and ensuring consistency in productivity and high image quality, even at the fastest speeds.
"High-speed, low cost wide-format digital production still retains strong demand for good quality solvent-based printers that offer advanced features and
flawless operation," says Richard Barham, Vice President for Inkjet Systems at Agfa Graphics. "The new 3.25 m :Jeti 3348 HSS introduces new drying
technology that allows breakthrough speed without any increase in heat, so it can continue to handle the latest low cost PE substrates"
A truly future-proof wide-format print solution has been added to Agfa Graphics' portfolio of UV-curable ink-jet engines, which enables display producers to
balance their investments, inline with business growth. The :Jeti 3020 Titan is a high production flat-bed machine, designed and constructed using a
modular format so that, as users' demands increase, the printer's colour and speed capabilities can be extended.
The Agfa Graphics :Jeti 3020 Titan's entry-level version incorporates 16 robust Ricoh Gen 4 greyscale print-heads resulting in fast, high quality CMYK output
at a native resolution of 600 dpi, able to deliver 1200 dpi for photorealistic image quality. The machine has a maximum print area of 3 x 2 m prints up to an
impressive 113 square m/hour (1,216 square feet/hour).
The Agfa :Jeti 3020 Titan can be extended to incorporate more colours and higher speeds. The modular concept and new electronics' platform simplifies
upgrades to ensure that the machine is future-proof, guaranteeing a healthy ROI for investors who can add options, in keeping with their business strategy,
to broaden their output capabilities and enter new markets.
The :Jeti 3020 Titan can be configured from a minimum of 16, up to a maximum of 48 greyscale heads, according to individual requirements, with a maximum
print speed of 226 square m/hour (2,432 square feet/hour). The standard CMYK configuration can be extended with double the initial print-head arrangement
for high-speed throughput, along with other colour options.
Additional versatile ink choices for the :Jeti 3020 Titan enable the incorporation of light cyan and light magenta for better image rendering, double white,
white and clear varnish to add an artistic touch, or orange and green to extend the colour gamut. As a consequence both the speed and the colour
selections define the number of heads in the system offering optimum throughput and image quality; these enhancements can be added when required.
Designed as a completely new concept in wide-format printers from the ground up, the Titan's rugged flat bed architecture and solid vacuum table work
effortlessly with flexible and rigid materials up to 5 cm in thickness. Its robust steel frame platform, with Agfa Graphics' advanced linear motion technology,
feature state-of-the-art digital encoders for precision dot placement to the finest quality even at the fastest throughput speeds. This industrial design, integral
to the high standards of the :Jeti 3020 Titan, is vital for maintaining consistently precise results, essential for creating accurate graphics and fine text down
to 8 picolitre drop sizes. Even in its initial, four-colour output configuration, the printer performs flawlessly on photographic and solid colours, with no banding,
and crisp, clear text output in sizes as small as 4pt.
Agfa has also incorporated a new electronics' platform, which not only makes processor upgrades simple to carry out but also provides online interactive
diagnostics and monitoring.
As well as speed and quality, Agfa Graphics has ensured that the highest safety standards have been built into the :Jeti 3020 Titan. The enhanced UV light
screening, automatic head height adjustment and an optional laser media height detection system, minimise operator intervention and improve the user's
working environment.
The :Jeti 3020 Titan is designed to output borderless prints across 2 x 3 m dimensions. Multiple boards can be printed simultaneously, with retractable
register pins. The operator can position rigid materials accurately and consistently on all run lengths.
"Today's print service providers and display producers don't want to change machines every time they need to upgrade, and this was one of the primary
design specifications we considered when we developed the Titan," states Richard Barham, Vice President for Inkjet Systems at Agfa Graphics. "The
market for UV-curable wide-format ink-jet printers is always changing, and this can be costly and time-consuming for customers who don't want their
workflow to be disrupted every time they need to invest in more colours or faster throughput."
"By developing a wide-format UV-curable platform which incorporates every option likely to be needed by growing and established businesses, we can
bring much-needed stability to our user base yet give them the opportunity to take advantage of the latest printing technology," Barham concludes. "With
the :Jeti 3020 Titan we have brought to market the industry's first truly future-proof solution. It allows users to upgrade in order to stay ahead of the
competition with their existing print technology."
Agfa Graphics' FTR Rolls out Extra Functionality for the :Jeti 1224 UV
HDC
Responding to growing market demand to complement the true flat-bed capabilities of the :Jeti 1224 UV HDC (High Definition Colour) UV-curable printer,
Agfa Graphics has developed a dedicated FTR (Flat to Roll) unit to broaden the machine's productivity. This new addition means that the robust 2.4 m
wide engine can now handle both rigid and flexible materials with equal power, throughput quality and efficiency on both media types. The :Jeti 1224 FTR is
on display at GRAPH EXPO (Oct 3-6, Chicago, IL-USA) at the Agfa inkjet booth #844.
The new version of the Agfa :Jeti 1224 UV HDC, which was launched earlier in the year, incorporates a specially designed roll-to-roll unit which simplifies the
handling and production of jobs on all types of material. Now, as well as being able to print to rigid substrates up to 5 cm in thickness, the FTR option supports
media rolls of up to 113 kg (250 lbs).
The sturdy, ergonomic design and construction of the Agfa :Jeti 1224 UV HDC features linear motion for precise registration even at the highest speeds. Its
advanced high-strength vacuum table holds both rigid and flexible materials in place, yet the machine's practical configuration means it can be operated by a
single user, with fast and simple change-over between flat-bed and FTR roll-fed modes.
With its Ricoh Gen 4 greyscale print-heads and speeds of up to nearly 100 sqm/hour (over 1000 sqft/hr), this new dual functionality brings additional
versatility to users who want the benefits of high quality throughput onto all media from a single UV-curable platform. Designed for 24/7 operation, yet priced
to enable smaller display production houses to compete in large accounts with a realistic investment level, the Agfa :Jeti 1224 UV HDC also features UV
lamps which can be controlled incrementally to enable more heat sensitive surfaces and materials to be printed.
The :Jeti 1224 UV HDC's has the ability to print inline opaque white ink or clear varnish. A gloss option increases the types of finish which can be output in
both flat-bed and FTR modes. A maximum resolution of 1200 dpi and the wide gamut, generated by the High Definition Colour inks, ensure vibrant and
accurate image and text quality on all materials.
"We have combined both true flat-bed functionality with the versatility of a dedicated roll-fed unit in a single system to eliminate the handling and
production compromises often found in hybrid UV-curable machines. Absolute consistency is guaranteed in both rigid and flexible modes," explains
Richard Barham, Vice President for Inkjet Systems at Agfa Graphics. "Adding this advanced feature to the :Jeti 1224 UV HDC's powerful production
capacity now gives the wide-format ink-jet market a practical and cost-effective solution in one engine."
The Agfa :Jeti 1224 UV HDC is ideal for display producers, sign-makers, screen-printers and digital print bureaus who want to work with all types of media.
As well as typical materials, including rigid boards, wood, foamcore, corrugateds and aluminium composites, the printer's FTR option makes it simple to work
with vinyls, canvas, self-adhesives vinyls, polyester-based films, fabrics and papers. In addition, its superior ink adhesion, fine resolution and handling
properties enables the machine to be used for special applications and surfaces, such as lenticular, ceramics and glass.
Agfa Graphics and the Pitman Company have teamed up for GRAPH EXPO 2010. Two booths (#2611 & #844)but one goal: help customers grow sales!
Combined, Agfa and Pitman have the most comprehensive assortment of inkjet solutions. This includes entry-level systems all the way up to high-speed
industrial inkjet, plus a wide variety of rigid and flexible media.
Booth #844 will be fully dedicated to profit-generating inkjet solutions, including Agfa's :Anapurna M 2050 UV-curable inkjet printer. The :Anapurna M 2050 is
designed to give users a cost-effective solution for speed and 1440 dpi display printing. Moreover, Agfa's :Jeti 1224 HDC FTR (flat-to-roll), a high-productivity
UV inkjet printer featuring High Definition Color capabilities, will be running live during the show. This system offers the best true flatbed combined with true
roll-to-roll capability on the market. The 96"-wide flatbed architecture of the :Jeti 1224 HDC allows for printing on virtually anything that is reasonably flat up
to five cm thick. It is ideally suited for high-resolution trade show graphics, POS (Point-of-Sale) displays, real estate signs, backlit signs, lenticular displays,
high-resolution banners, ceramic tiles, wood and many more flatbed applications.
GRAPH EXPO attendees can also learn about Agfa's :M-Press TIGER, a high-speed UV flatbed inkjet press, the :Dotrix high-speed UV web inkjet printing
press, Agfa-made inks, and more.
In booth #2611, a full assortment of prepress, press and packaging solutions will be displayed. GRAPH EXPO attendees can stop by for demos of :Apogee
7, the latest version of Agfa's award-winning automated workflow which includes :Apogee Impose, an Agfa-developed imposition module that relies on live
job information rather than templates to perform imposition. In addition, :Apogee 7 allows print buyers to go beyond the web-to-print screen to create new jobs
in the prepress stage with WebApproval.
Agfa will also demonstrate its complete plate portfolio which includes :Azura TS, the #1 chemistry-free thermal plate on the market, as well as the Intertech
Technology award-winning :Energy Elite plate. Agfa's :Amigo TS will make its North American debut at GRAPH EXPO. The new :Amigo TS runs up to 50
percent faster than the original. Agfa will also display :Arkitex 7, the automated workflow specifically suited to fit the evolving needs of newspapers.
Agfa and Pitman have also invited several vendor partners into both booths. The goal of this unconventional effort is to provide GRAPH EXPO 2010
attendees with a complete array of solutions to fit their total business needs. This includes products from the following segments:
Inkjet Media
3M - Your Power Over Wraps - New business opportunities in wide format applications. As the #1 materials provider for all things wrapped, 3M aims to provide
the resources you need for the high-growth medium they call wraps. Visit Booth #844 and see a live 3M vehicle wrap demonstration.
Esko Kongsberg i-XL Series - Automated digital finishing systems for signs and displays. The Kongsberg i-XL complements digital printing of sign and displays
with a unique finishing solution for the widest range of materials and applications, providing automation, high productivity and outstanding precision.
Ultraflex Systems, Inc. is the leading innovator, developer and supplier of a wide range of flexible, semi-rigid, rigid and specialty substrates from 30" to 16'4"
widths for solvent, UV, screen and dye-sublimation printing. Since 1982, Ultraflex has been recognized worldwide for the following brand names: Jetflex®,
Normandy®, UltraBanner®, Ultima®, Vulite®, Ultralon®, Wallscapes®, UltraMesh® and BIOflex®.
GRAPH EXPO 2010 attendees will also see the latest products from Avery, 3PTextiles, Neschen and Duratex line within the booth.
Inkjet Hardware - Ideal for entry level market
Epson GS 6000 Low Solvent Printer - 64" Roll-to-Roll printer that delivers unparalleled color gamut, image quality, reliability and print speeds with new safer
solvent-based ink technology.
Epson Stylus Pro 9900 - incorporates the latest achievements in photographic inkjet technology. By combining the precision of MicroPiezo TFP™ print head
with the extraordinary performance of Epson UltraChrome® HDR ink, the Epson Stylus Pro printers continue to represent a level of technology unprecedented
in Epson history.
HP L25500 Printer - Users can produce outdoor signage with durability comparable to eco-solvent inks and achieve high-quality results-that meet clients'
branding requirements-for all your indoor signage applications, from exhibition graphics to interior decorations. Print on a wide range of media, including coated
media or polyester fabric and low-cost papers without treatments.
Press
Sun Chemical is making it possible for printers of all sizes to cut their ink inventories - and ink waste - with the installation of GFI's automated Mx12 Ink
Formulation Dispenser. The Mx12 formulates and dispenses spot colors automatically, using Sun Chemical's SmartColour™ Global Shade Library - a database
of formulas for more than 100,000 ink colors.
SGBlue CAP (Clean Air Plant) - SGBlue has created an air purification system that not only reduces fugitive emissions to nearly undetectable levels, but also
reduces the cost of running your business at the same time. The result - decreased energy costs, insurance premiums and regulatory costs, increased
equipment life and improved green-market strategy.
Packaging
The Packaging segment continues experience record growth with expansion in Flexographic and Relief printing products including Cyrel FAST plates and
direct-to-plate products from DuPont and Toray.
Epson Stylus Pro WT7900 Printer -designed specifically for proofing flexographic and gravure print jobs that require the color white, the Epson Stylus Pro
WT7900 incorporates the latest achievements in high-resolution ink jet technology - including the breakthrough Epson UltraChrome™ HDR White Ink.
GMG - GMG is the recognized leader in contract proofing for inkjet worldwide, with over 10,000 systems installed. Working together, Epson and GMG deliver
the features, speed, quality and cost savings needed to address the replacement of traditional halftone proofing systems. The Epson WT7900 & GMG
Flexoproof combination has the ability to deliver more accurate pantone match than any halftone proofing system.
Agfa Graphics Announces Successful Closing of Recent Pitman
Company Acquisition
Agfa Graphics has successfully completed the acquisition of the assets of the Harold M. Pitman Company, a
leading supplier of prepress, industrial inkjet, pressroom and packaging printing products and systems in the USA.
The signing of the purchase agreement was announced on July 15, 2010.
Agfa Graphics announced that it has signed an agreement to purchase the assets of the Harold M. Pitman
Company, a leading US supplier of prepress, industrial inkjet, pressroom and packaging printing products and
systems.
The Pitman Company acquisition substantially increases Agfa Graphics' revenue in the US to more than $500
million. The incremental EBIT contribution is expected to be well in line with Agfa Graphics' global 7 percent
target. After the closing, Agfa expects further growth of its US top line resulting from the combination of
expertise available in both companies. Agfa also expects strong synergies to be delivered from the consolidation
of sales forces and the reduction of G&A expenses.
Based in Totowa, New Jersey, the Pitman Company counts 502 employees and 16 locations throughout the
USA. The acquisition will enable Agfa Graphics to significantly strengthen its position in the US printing industry.
Pitman's large customer base and knowledge of the industry will offer immediate and unique growth
opportunities for Agfa Graphics' industrial inkjet and prepress solutions. Agfa Graphics' addressable market
will increase substantially, thanks to the addition of numerous product lines to its offering, including flexographic
printing plate solutions for the packaging industry, pressroom products and value added services. Moreover,
Agfa Graphics will be able to complement its own developed industrial inkjet offering with the addition of a vast
range of media, new inks and wide format printing systems.
" Pitman's strong distribution network and broad portfolio of products and systems, combined with our leading
technology, will provide us with promising growth opportunities in this strategically important region. One glance
at Pitman's extensive catalog is enough to understand that we will considerably expand our scope," said Stefaan
Vanhooren, Agfa Graphics' president. "One of the main drivers behind this decision was the fact that we gain a
unique opportunity to significantly grow our inkjet business."
Pitman's Chairman of the Board, Paul (Peter) F. Schmidt, Jr., stated "Our family built the Pitman Company into an
industry leading graphic solutions provider and for over 50 years we have been strategic partners with Agfa. I
feel very confident about this new chapter in the history of the Pitman Company and I know that it is the
combined force of Pitman and Agfa that will drive this company to the next level by providing present and future
customers a greater value package of goods and services."
Agfa Graphics announced today that the company has teamed up with the International Sign Association (ISA)
for "The Future of Inkjet" webinar being held Thursday, July 8th, 2010 from 2:00pm to 3:30pm (EDT). "The
Future of Inkjet" webinar will be an interactive discussion on the latest trends in the marketplace. The discussion
will also highlight the availability of growth opportunities via inkjet technologies such as textile printing, POP/
packaging, interior design, retail applications and more.
Deborah Hutcheson, Agfa's director of marketing for North America, will moderate the webinar. Plus, Bob Murray
and Dennis Oliva of McRae Imaging, a leading dye-sub and fabric printer based in Mississauga, ON, and Tony
Morrone, president of Signco, Inc., a Chicago-based sign company, will offer their real-world perspectives and
experiences with inkjet.
New :Anapurna M-series G2 Inks from Agfa Graphics Offer Greater
Flexibility
A new formulation of inks for the Agfa Anapurna M-series of hybrid printers has been introduced. It improves
flexibility on a wide range of rigid and flexible materials. This new generation UV-curable formulation, designated
G2 UV, is incorporated into all new :Anapurna M machines, with upgrades available for existing models. The
:Anapurna G2 inks will be available from June 2010.
Although many of the properties of the new :Anapurna G2 UV inks are the same as the earlier successful
formulation in terms of durability and colour vibrancy, the flexibility quotient has been enhanced. This feature
enables users to print onto a greater range of substrates that might need to incorporate an element of curvature
when installed or which are liable to suffer from stress fatigue.
Sign-makers and display producers will also benefit from being able to produce applications onto substrates
which might stretch or shrink when exposed to temperature changes. The :Anapurna G2 inks are formulated
so that they do not crack when the material is bent, cut or drilled, providing a more versatile formulation with
firm adhesion and scratch resistance.
The stability and adhesion of the :Anapurna G2 inks are important factors when jobs are finished using CNC
cutting and routing machines. The new formulation means that clean, smooth edges can be produced without
any flaking.
These new inks are also intended to reduce maintenance time and procedures on the printer as the feed,
nozzles and print-heads will not clog, even when the machine is not in use. A long shelf-life is also guaranteed
as the :Anapurna M-series G2 inks can be stored for 18 months.
The current printers in the :Anapurna M family cover all budgetary and production options, and include versions
which incorporate varnish and white ink. Designed as an option for the :Anapurna M, users can opt to switch
from G1 to G2 inks. All new machines will ship with the revised product line starting from Q4 2010.
Established as robust UV-curable ink-jet printers which can output to a wide range of rigid and flexible materials,
the adoption of the new G2 inks will enhance the potential of all :Anapurna M machines. Adding improved
stability and flexibility broadens the portfolio of options available to sign-makers and display producers who
want to benefit from a high-quality, low-cost wide-format solution.
The new G2 inks will be offered at the same price as the existing G1 ink.
Agfa's GreenWorks™ Program Honors 150 Green Printers
Agfa announced today that its GreenWorks™ Environmental Recognition Award Program has honored its 150th
printer. Launched in 2007 as a part of Agfa's global environmental initiatives, GreenWorks™ recognizes printers
that integrate, support and promote environmentally sound practices in their facilities.
Recent recipients of the GreenWorks Environmental Recognition award include:
· Allegra Print and Imaging (Abbotsford, BC, Canada)
· Coastal Printing & Graphics (Shallotte, NC, USA)
· Curtis Packaging (Sandy Hook, CT, USA)
· Rose Printing (Oriccia, ON, Canada)
· Worth Higgins and Associates, Inc (Manassas, VA, USA)
"The demand for greener technologies within the marketplace continues to grow. Agfa is proud to be at the
forefront in the development of green printing technologies," said Deborah Hutcheson, Director of Marketing,
Agfa Graphics. "At Agfa, we believe high-quality printing can be accomplished in an efficient and eco-friendly
manner. Today, printing technologies that help printers eliminate waste, reduce costs and improve efficiencies
just makes good business sense."
To become part of Agfa's GreenWorks program, companies must be current users of Agfa's ThermoFuse™
platemaking technology which includes award-winning, chemistry-free :Azura TS plates and the low-chemistry
:Amigo plates. Printers can also be users of Agfa's :Energy Elite no-bake thermal plates, which are perfect for
long runs and the most challenging of production environments. :Energy Elite allows printers to eliminate ovens,
substantially reducing energy consumption and costs. :Azura TS, :Amigo and :Energy Elite plates have helped
commercial printers significantly reduce their impact on the environment when compared to conventional digital
or analog plates.
To be considered for GreenWorks recognition, companies must also actively promote cleaner and more efficient
printing practices, use other environmentally-friendly products and be involved in additional eco-friendly efforts
such as recycling, waste reduction programs or use of alternative energy sources in their plants.
Image Digital Printing Expands Product Offering with Agfa's :Jeti Printing
Systems
Agfa announced today that Image Digital Printing (IDP), a large-format printer in Toronto, Ontario
(www.idpgraphics.com) is reaping success with their :Jeti inkjet solutions.
Launched in 2003, IDP produces everything from small decals to billboards. Over the years, managing partner
Rob Tenwesteneind said, IDP has invested in four Jeti inkjet systems. The company opted for the :Jeti 3150 and
:Jeti 3300 solvent inkjet systems for projects such as vehicle wrapping and the :Jeti 1224 UV inkjet system for
POP and other on-demand projects for its customers, which range from trade show display companies to large
franchises.
"The Jeti systems are built strong, like tanks," Tenwesteneind said. "They have worked really well for us.
We produce outdoor signage on a material called Crezon®. With the :Jeti 3150 we can print directly onto this
substrate. The vacuum on the table is strong and saves us lots of time and labor since we don't have to print
on vinyl and then mount it to the wood."
Agfa announced the acquisition of Gandi Innovations in November 2009. The acquisition enabled Agfa
Graphics to significantly increase its presence in large format inkjet printing, as the Gandi Innovations portfolio
of mid-range large format printers is completely complementary to Agfa Graphics' inkjet business. The deal
closed in January 2010.
According to Tenwesteneind, "The transition between Gandi Innovations and Agfa has been seamless and it
has not affected our daily operations. We are considering further expansion and a new :Jeti system may help
us do just that."
"The :Jeti line of printing systems fits nicely into Agfa's portfolio. Companies like Image Digital Printing have
been loyal :Jeti users and are happy that they are being backed by an organization that is committed to helping
grow the product line," said Deborah Hutcheson, Director of Marketing, Agfa Graphics.
Agfa Graphics to Launch New :Jeti 1224 UV HDC Inkjet Printer at ISA
New system features Photo Realistic quality, Grayscale printing, up to 1182 sq. ft/hr printing speed and
industrial grade construction
Agfa Graphics today announced the launch of the new :Jeti 1224 UV HDC inkjet printer, which will be
demonstrated for the first time on the Agfa stand at ISA in Orlando, FL, 8-10 April 2010. The :Jeti 1224 UV
HDC is the first inkjet printer to be launched since Agfa acquired the :Jeti business and demonstrates the
results of the combined Agfa and :Jeti research and development teams.
The :Jeti 1224 UV HDC (HDC = High Definition Color) inkjet printer features the widest color gamut and
highest productivity in its class, demonstrating high definition, sharp fine text and photographic detail with
bright intense colors.
Built on a solid steel platform, designed for 3 shift operations, the :Jeti 1224 UV HDC features a unique,
linear motor driven vacuum bed for highly accurate dot placement in both flat bed mode or with the optional
roll-to-roll (RTR) feature.The flatbed architecture can print on anything that is reasonably flat up to two inches
thick and with its industrial grade construction can support media rolls up to 250 lbs.
The :Jeti 1224 UV HDC is the first :Jeti printer to use the Ricoh Gen 4 variable grayscale print head
technology. Agfa has created advanced waveform designs and introduced the :Anuvia HD ink technology
to drive the Ricoh heads up to 30 KHz in binary and 13KHz in grayscale. With 4 color and white as standard
the :Jeti 1224 UV HDC delivers equivalent speeds in both binary and grayscale modes at resolutions up to
1200 dpi.
Throughput is rated at 1182 sq. ft/hr in express mode, 582 sq. ft/hr in production mode and 390 sq. ft/hr in
high quality mode. With the :Anuvia HD ink delivering maximum pigment density for saturated colors,
combined with drops as small as 8pl, the :Jeti 1224 UV HDC consumes less than 0.7ml of ink per sq. ft yielding
over 1500 sq. ft per litre of ink.
"Agfa is always looking for new ways to speed up the printing process whilst increasing the quality and
lowering costs of production. The new :Anuvia HD ink on the:Jeti 1224 UV HDC system provides a higher
yield and wider color gamut to help our customers increase their profit margins, produce output with vibrant
color, and provide the lowest ink consumption in its class," said Richard Barham, vice president of Inkjet,
Agfa Graphics.
The :Jeti 1224 UV HDCis ideally suited for high resolution trade show graphics, POS (Point-of-Sale) displays,
real estate signs, backlit signs, lenticular displays, high resolution banners, ceramic tiles, wood and many
more flatbed applications.
First customer shipments will start on 1 June 2010.
Agfa Graphics to Acquire Assets of Gandi Innovations Holdings LLC.
Agfa Graphics announces that it has reached an agreement to acquire most of the assets of Gandi Innovations
Holdings LLC’s North American operations and the shares of its principal foreign subsidiaries.
Gandi Innovations is a global leader in large format inkjet systems.
Since May 2009, it has been operating under CCAA protection in Canada and Chapter 15 in the USA.
The acquisition is subject to regulatory and court approval and the successful closing of the transaction. The
price of the transaction is not being disclosed at this point of time, but it will have no major impact on Agfa's
financial debt.
Over the period 2001-2009, Gandi Innovations has created a large installed base of inkjet printing engines,
reaching a sales peak of 127 million USD in 2008. Sales in 2009 have strongly suffered from the economic
crisis (affecting in particular investment goods) and the uncertainty surrounding the company. Gandi
Innovations' long established team has a wealth of pioneering expertise and engineering excellence in large
format printing technology. Gandi Innovations' customers include many of the world's leading Point of Purchase
and large format printing companies. Over the years, they have come to rely on the company's vision, reliability
and cutting-edge technology.
Gandi Innovations was founded in 2001 and has its headquarters and its production facilities in Mississauga
(Canada). The Group employs 256 highly skilled staff and operates worldwide through sales offices and distributors.
Combined with recent announcements on Agfa Graphics' :M-Press Tiger industrial flatbed inkjet press and the
launch of new printing engines in the :Anapurna large format range, the acquisition of the assets of Gandi
Innovations strengthens Agfa Graphics' leadership in large format inkjet printing systems.
"The combination of Gandi Innovations' products and Agfa Graphics' products will result in substantial growth
for our inkjet business based on an even more complete system portfolio," said Richard Barham, Agfa Graphics'
Vice President Inkjet. "This is an important step in implementing our Inkjet growth strategy. As our own portfolio
consists of entry-level and high-end inkjet systems, Gandi Innovations' mid-range systems are a 100%
complementary fit with our existing inkjet technology."
Gandi Innovations' CEO and co-founder Hary Gandy added: "Joining Agfa Graphics offers Gandi Innovations'
staff and customers tremendous opportunities for the future. The combined capabilities and coverage in customer
service and research and development will accelerate the launch of new products, deliver new business
opportunities and further expand our service to our customers."
Agfa Graphics announced today that it is demonstrating an array of innovative prepress and inkjet solutions
during Print ’09 Chicago (Booth #2600, South Hall) that will help printers stay ahead of industry-wide pressures
and market constraints. To do so, Agfa is focusing on hands-on ways and real world solutions that printers can
use today to revitalize their businesses via automation, integration, sustainability and diversification, “the” key
drivers of the industry going forward. Among the solutions being demonstrated at the Agfa booth are:
Solutions for increased automation
- :Apogee Suite 6.0 (first national demos) integrated, digital workflow solution that brings together a wide range
of features, combining automation with process control of the entire workflow in real time, from a single drag-and-
drop graphical user interface. The open architecture JDF-based software will showcase connectivity to other
JDF-based systems like Web2Print, MIS, Digital Presses and more. :Apogee v6.0 allows the import and
conversion of different file formats into a PDF for controlled output to a web portal for soft approval, to a page
or imposition proofing device, to a CtF or CtP imaging device, to a digital press, or export to another prepress system
- :Apogee Portal (featuring new PageMaster Interface) strengthens and simplifies the communication efforts
between printers and their customers, allowing them to work together on projects and tasks and resulting in
higher productivity, a shorter number of steps before printing, and reduced reworks and errors
- :Apogee InkSave - integrated and automated option that intelligently applies a high degree of Grey Component
Replacement (GCR) to reduce the amount of ink used while maintaining a high quality color output. In addition
to using up to 30% less ink, :Apogee InkSave provides greater grey balance control on press, faster drying
times and better tolerance to mis-registration on press
- :Arkitex - a powerful workflow system for newspaper production that integrates equipment and tasks throughout
the workflow, allowing users to operate more efficiently and meet tight deadlines with ease
- :Arkitex OptiInk - fully automated solution that processes PDF files and optimizes ink utilization in newspaper
printing, offering the potential for significant ink savings while maintaining full quality print
- :Arkitex IntelliTune - image processing software for newspapers that reduces image processing time, improves
quality and speeds time to press by eliminating time-consuming image correction
- :Arkitex -The workflow standard for the Newspaper Industry offering total automation from editorial through
press.
Solutions for successful integration
Integration is another means by which printers are improving their businesses. Agfa will be demonstrating onsite
JDF integrations including:
- :Apogee JDF integration with Press-Sense iWay - This Web2Print integration focuses on the possibilities that
exist for today's commercial printers. This includes outreach to new clients and improving interactions with existing
customers all via a web-based storefront. Print ‘09 attendees will see iWay's flexibility with template based
ordering, variable input and static document uploads and the power of :Apogee in both job creation and
production processes. A variety of delivery scenarios will be explored and so much more
- :Apogee JDF MIS Link to Technique MIS - This demonstration will offer a hands-on look at this open JDF
partnership that enables the highest possible integration between MIS and prepress systems. This integration
facilitates automated job creation in the prepress system with full bi-directional status messaging. Material usage
data is reported back to the MIS for job costing analysis, thereby eliminating the need for manual data collection
by prepress operators. Technique MIS has the ability to dynamically include production tasks and specify private
features within :Apogee Portal and :Apogee Prepress allowing printers to efficiently manage their workflow
inventory costs, billing and scheduling
- :Apogee Digital Print Link to Canon imagePRESS - :Apogee Prepress has been enhanced to drive high speed
digital presses, including the Canon imagePRESS. :Apogee Prepress manages the data to create proofs, plates
and digital printing. All parameters for media selection and the various finishing features can be set in the :Apogee
workflow, so products are delivered from the digital press. This means no additional input from the operator is
required. The strong synergy between digital printing technology and Agfa's prepress solutions ensures
commercial printers have realistic ways to secure profitable growth for their businesses.
Sustainable solutions that help printers reduce costs and consumption of natural resources & increased productivity,
efficiency with automation
- :Azura TS thermal plate uses a simple process via a clean-out unit (COU), making plates press-ready with no
need for chemical processing. With :Azura TS water consumption and waste are considerably reduced
- The :Azura C95 COU has low energy requirements and a small footprint, providing further benefits for low-to-
medium-volume commercial printers
- :Energy Elite (no-bake thermal plate) for peak production and long runs as well as :N92-VCF (violet photo-
polymer, chemistry-free plate) and :N92-V (long-run, no-bake violet photo-polymer plate) for newspaper production
environments. Both help users reduce waste while maintaining quality
- :Avalon N8-50 CtP system features GLV imaging head technology, uses 512 and 1024 beams to deliver
between 24 and 50 B1 plates per hour in a fully automated CtP configuration. These precision imaging heads
produce exceptional tonal accuracy and uniformity from corner to corner, plate to plate and job to job
- :Avalon N4 is a thermal platesetter that offers a convenient solution for the mid-size printer market for 4-up and
6-up applications. The :Avalon N4 has a maximum imaging speed of up to 21 4-up plates/hr. and can produce
thermal plates including Agfa’s :Azura TS.
Solutions to help printers diversify and create new business opportunities
- :Dotrix Modular (running live; North American debut): This digital UV inkjet web press features high speed (80ft.
/min.), unique width of 25.6 inches and expanded color gamut for folding carton, flexible packaging, POP and
industrial applications
- :Anapurna Mw (running live; First time in North America) an industrial UV inkjet printer that adds single pass
pre-white and multi-pass post-white to the :Anapurna M series, creating new possibilities for printing on transparent
material and backlit applications or printing white as a spot color. The :Anapurna Mw’s unique vacuum strength-
control system guarantees smooth transport at high speeds of a wide variety of substrates, including rigid and
roll-to-roll media
- :Anapurna M2 (running live) a brand new heavy-duty industrial UV inkjet printer, designed to produce top
quality output (up to 720 x 1440 dpi) on a wide range of rigid and roll-to-roll media. The :Anapurna M² offers the
highest speed, quality and productivity of any printer in its class, producing high-quality poster output in six-color
mode at 247 ft²/h
- :Anapurna M4f (running live) a 63” 4-color UV flatbed printing solution with roll-to-roll option that provides maximum
flexibility of applications at the most economical price. With print resolutions of 720 x 1440 dpi, the :Anapurna M4f
delivers excellent photorealistic printing results for indoor and outdoor applications
- :M-Press TIGER, (North American debut) a brand new high-speed flatbed inkjet press co-developed by Thieme
and Agfa, featuring new printhead technology, auto head positioning and tuning. :M-Press TIGER can print
17,000 ft. an hour.The perfect solution for high volume POP providers and other traditional screen printing
applications.
Increase Speed and Productivity with Agfa Graphics' New
:Anapurna M²
Agfa Graphics adds top range model to the :Anapurna family and doubles productivity at the industry highest
image quality in its class.
Agfa Graphics proudly announces the :Anapurna M² UV inkjet wide format printer. Based on Agfa's
best-selling, industry award-winning :Anapurna M family of UV inkjet printers, the :Anapurna M² is a feature
complete heavy-duty industrial UV inkjet system.
Many automation enhancements make the :Anapurna M2 the new trendsetter in the market of wide format
UV inkjet printing. A unique vacuum strength control system was designed for smooth substrate transport at
high speeds. Shuttle safety sensors protect the print heads in case of variable substrate height, and an
ionizing bar prevents electro-static loads on the substrate, ensuring optimum ink droplet positioning and
therefore delivering the highest print quality. All this comes standard in the :Anapurna M2; it is designed to
cope with peak production and high volume workloads. The :Anapurna M2 boosts a more powerful fastscan
motor driving a shuttle with 6 printheads with 1024 nozzles each which provides increased speed. Convenient
by design, the printer handles roll-to-roll media as well as rigids. Media loading is made extremely
straightforward with automated media registration bars and head height adjustment.
"The :Anapurna M2 is ideally suited for graphic screen printers, commercial printers, sign shops and photo
labs that demand high quality", said Willy Van Dromme, Business Line Manager for Wide Format at Agfa
Graphics. "It is built to be robust with industrial strength. It is thé high throughput UV-ink printer of choice to fit
for heavy workloads and peak performance with top quality."
The :Anapurna M2 has a maximum media width of 62 inches and uses the latest Konica-Minolta 12
picoliter print heads offering unparalleled image quality at 720 x 1440 dpi. Both in uni- and bi-directional
modes, prints are sharp and show high detail rendering and fine text. Printing in the 8 pass uni-directional
mode delivers output in photo quality. Maximum productivity is achieved in 4 pass bi-directional mode and
results in an output of approx. 23 square meters per hour.
In combination with the Agfa-made UV-curable :Anapurna ink, :Anapurna M2 offers top-notch photo-quality at
high throughput speeds.
New Media and RIP to be Shown at Viscom Add Powerful Capabilities
Mortsel, Belgium -- 9 July 2003 -- Agfa announced its plans to participate in four Viscom International Trade
Fairs for Visual Advertising Techniques and Signmaking: 4 September in Dusseldorf, 17 September in Paris,
16 October in Madrid and 14 November in Milan. The company will demonstrate its commitment to the
large-format printing market as well as screen printing with a display of a new indoor and outdoor media, and
a more powerful RIP for its :Grand Sherpa inkjet printing systems. Agfa will also show its film products and digital
proofing system for screen printing.
AgfaJet Media
To its wide assortment of inkjet media Agfa is adding a universal wet-strength paper. Developed for outdoor
billboards, the new 130 gm material will resist water for up to six weeks with no loss of image quality.
Agfa will also show three self-adhesive materials. A universal instant-dry photograde paper (UIPP), a 90 gm
premium inkjet paper and a premium vinyl material. The UIPP material delivers high quality on a microporous
photo-base RC paper for brilliant, high contrast, photo-like images. The 90 gm premium coated inkjet paper was
designed for high-quality presentations, colour graphics and poster prints with low to medium ink coverage. Flexible,
high-quality vinyl material was developed for the high image quality for indoor and outdoor use.
A Universal Front Print Film for display graphics with vibrant colours will be shown in 4 and 7 mil thickness. This
film is compatible with all inkjet inks and printers.
Poster-Printing RIP
Agfa's new RIP for the :Grand Sherpa large-format printing system adds support for 16-bit TIFF and JPEG 2000
image files. The new Onyx PosterShop 6.0 Agfa Edition software provides a Web portal for browser-based, remote
print management. The system also offers new tools for customised colour management and preflighting. Proofing
tools automate print contract- and concept-proof output and colour matching from one printer to another. And
PosterColor colour-rendering technology improves CMYK output when ICC profiles are applied.
Grand Sherpa 64 Large-Format Inkjet System
Agfa will show its popular :Grand Sherpa printing system. The system has proved to be a cost-effective,
high-productivity solution to high-resolution (1440 x1440 dpi) output. In combination with new :AgfaJet media,
and a new system RIP, Agfa provides the ability to gain revenue from a wide variety of printing applications from
outdoor billboards and vinyl signs to indoor displays and fast-mounting signage.
Screen Printing Technologies
The :Sherpa 24m digital proofing system gives screen printers a wide seven-colour ink gamut for accurately
matching special spot colours as well as process colours. In combination with Agfa's colour management system
and quality-control software, the :Sherpa system offers a reliable, cost-effective solution to screen proofing.
SelectJet provides screen printers with a new level of independence with significant cost savings. Selectjet
material allows screen printers to make film separations in house using only an inkjet printer. SelectJet
instant-dry material provides high density and exceptional dimensional stability, up to 168 cm wide.
CopyJet was also developed for screen printing companies wishing to make film separations in-house. It offers
the same benefits as SelectJet, producing high-quality film separations up to A2 format.
About Agfa.
The Agfa-Gevaert Group is one of the world's leading imaging companies. Agfa develops, manufactures and markets
analogue and digital systems, intended mainly for the graphics industry, healthcare, non-destructive testing,
micrographics, motion picture and photography markets.
Agfa's headquarters are in Mortsel, Belgium. The company is active in 40 countries and has 120 agents
throughout the world. Together they achieved a turnover of 4,683 million euros in 2002.
Mainichi Shimbun Chooses Agfa's :Polaris and :Lithostar for Computer to
Plate
Agfa announced today that it has finalized a major agreement with Mainichi Shimbun Group of Japan.
Mainichi Shimbun's Tokyo Metropolitan Center is the third largest newspaper in the world. Agfa is to install
two of its :Polaris XDJ CtP (computer-to-plate) systems in Mainichi Shimbun's newly established printing plant
in Fukushima, Japan. Mainichi Shimbun also decided to purchase the newspaper version of the :LP150
processors for Agfa's: Lithostar CtP plates.
