High performance wide-format flatbed printer manufacturer Inca Digital has introduced the Onset X HS range, featuring a new UV-curable Fujifilm ink, Uvijet OX, offering productivity of up to 1450sqm/hr and improved adhesion to plastic substrates.

The speed increase comes in part from a new ‘single cycle’ double-pass mode on the HS (high speed) models, though improved table movement and faster automation also contribute. The new mode halves the minimum number of passes, though a third one is needed to use the gloss UV finish option if the default ‘satin’ finish isn’t appropriate. This is made possible by the Uvijet OX ink, while a focus on overall job-to-job throughput on mixed work by minimising operator intervention has resulted in a ’30 second’ setup capability that automates a number of formerly manual processes to set the printer and robot-based automation for different size and type of substrates and jobs.

Over sustained working, Inca has calculated that the time savings from this rapid setup could add up 80 minutes of productive time at a typical customer site, equivalent to 240 beds a day. The shorter the print runs and the more varied the workload, the more valuable this facility should be.

The Fujifilm Uvijet OX ink was designed to provide improved adhesion on PVC alternatives, particularly polystyrene and polypropylene, which are being increasingly sought as the plastics backlash continues, and is said by Inca to have passed standard scratch and chip resistance tests with maximum scores. The inks are initially available in CMYK plus light cyan and light magenta.

The Onset X HS models use the same ‘sliding skin’ variable vacuum bed capability as the existing X range, which allows pre-cut light media such as paper, window graphics and banner material to be held flat and imaged. As with the existing models, which they are expected to replace over time, the Onset XHS range is offered with a choice of Fujifilm Dimatix printheads to suit different applications and throughput requirements. They are also supported by the Inca Connect software introduced some 18 months ago for remote setup.

The new models are available immediately and chargeable on-site upgrades will be made available later to customers with the existing Onset X models.