In line with its original plans for a new global launch at Drupa 2020, Kodak instead hosted a press conference to unveil its latest digital flexible packaging press. The Sapphire EVO W is the first digital packaging press to match the productivity of flexo and the quality of gravure.
It uses Kodak’s high-resolution Ultrastream Inkjet Technology and QD Packaging Inks to bring the endless opportunities of digital printing into mainstream production of flexible packaging. With run lengths of more than 20,000sq m, the Sapphire EVO W allows brands to adopt innovative packaging that leverages the advantages of digital printing.
Key features include: CMYK inkjet at 600 x 1,800 dpi across 1.25m print width at speeds of up to 150mpm; numerous options for variable data printing; in-line priming, flexo-white and post coating; and a hot air/IR drying system Sapphire EVO W claims to be eight times more productive than its leading competitor, allowing printers to respond faster to customer needs with tremendous savings in time, makeready and costs.
Running costs are said to be half that of the leading competitor, creating more profit per job and enabling printers to transition more work from flexo or gravure. Crossover of 20,000sq m with flexo means quick turnaround, and thus more revenue and profit per job.
Sapphire EVO W promises the best lamination bond strength of digital flexible packaging presses, an expanded application range and improved customer satisfaction. “The Sapphire EVO W is the first digital packaging press to match the productivity of flexo and the quality of gravure,” said Randy Vandagriff, Senior Vice President, Digital Print, Eastman Kodak Company, at the press conference. “It uses our high-resolution Ultrastream Inkjet Technology and QD packaging inks to bring the endless opportunities of digital printing into mainstream production of flexible packaging.” The Sapphire EVO W Press is available today worldwide.