CoverUp has installed an EFI Vutek Q5r printer, which incorporates an automatic inline finishing system for printing, cutting, slitting and collection all on the same platform, from CMYUK to achieve faster print speeds and higher quality output.
The Dublin, Ireland-based business, founded in 1976 as a manufacturer of exterior PVC and canvas coverings for machinery, vehicles and boats, has replaced old HP technology for the new 5m LED printer.
The dedicated roll-to-roll Vutek Q5r platform includes Y slitters – single or double-bladed – for separating multiple jobs on a single full-width roll in order to minimise media waste. An automated ‘roll and tape’ function takes printed cut sheets directly from the printer, rolls them into scrolls and tapes their edges with labels containing printed job information. Automatic Backlit capabilities support multi-roll cutting and slitting, enabling independent printing on each side of the material using a different print mode.
Supporting nine colours and offering a true resolution of 1200dpi, the Vutek Q5r is suitable for producing high quality images. Its ‘cool cure’ LED system extends the range of supported substrates to include lower cost and added-value materials. Glossy and matt coating modes in either selective or full flood provide print enhancement and a protective coating claimed to last for up to three years.
CoverUp’s operations director Anthony Byrne said, ‘The Q5r has instantly had an impact on production. It is really going to help us do what we do now but even better. PVC, canvas, Artex, vinyl and backlit – anything that’s possible to print – that’s what we’ll be doing.’
The company has since been experimenting printing UV images for lightboxes and blackout for display in addition to its usual digital dye sublimation output. Cover Up was the first in the world to purchase the Vutek FabriVU 340i, via CMYUK, in 2018 when the company was looking to replace its M-Tex printers.
