I-Sub on-demand packaging system unveiled – First Look
Alex ToddBy installing Mimaki’s new CFL605RT flatbed cutter in its store, i-Sub becomes the first Mimaki distributor.
Planned as a versatile cutting and plotting system, the Mimaki CFL605RT will help with packaging development, labels, signage, decals, and much more, as and when the need arises.
It’s suitable for different substrates including soft anti static foam material, PET sheet, coated board, vinyl and synthetic leather. It also comes loaded with a pen tool for making line drawings and features a folding and creasing option.
I-Sub – Other System Features that the Packaging Industry Can Benefit Users will get different cutting options with the system. PET and similar media can benefit from a tangential cutting tool.
Thicker materials can leverage the reciprocating cutting tool. For thin substrates like PVC or coated board, there’s an eccentric cutting tool. The system also has a creasing roller to facilitate carton creation.
The Mimaki CFL605RT has back side cut function to give the best front finish, a mark-sensor for precise cutting, and roll as well as vacuum sealing units to keep media in place. All these will help provide first-rate, professional packaging, and almost any other product depending on the chosen media’s capabilities.
When used with Mimaki Rasterlink software and Mimaki UJF-6042, the Mimaki CFL605RT offers an absolute solution for original goods production. The introduction of i-Sub’s innovative Digi-Foil to the procedure offers an even more sophisticated system.
Digi-Foil consists of a foil material and a heated applicator, along with a Mimaki UJF-6042 desktop printer. It allows foil effects’ creation for personalised products and packaging prototypes, similar in appearance to the ones produced by conventional dies and foil presses.
However, Digi-Foil takes a fraction of the time compared to its traditional counterparts, with considerably less waste production.
Thus, it speeds up the packaging development processes.
Andy Spreag – i-Sub’s Director, said that they were looking to display the new Mimaki CFL605RT and let customers know what a great system it is on its own. i-Sub also plans to highlight how the system is complementary to Digi-Foil and the Mimaki UJF-6042 desktop printer.
Digital Printing in Packaging
The digital printing of packages has been on the rise in recent years, and there are several reasons for this trend. The main advantage of digital printing over conventional printing techniques is its efficiency. It is quicker and uses less labor, which lowers the cost of production.
In addition, digital printing provides a higher degree of customisation than traditional methods. This is especially important in the package printing industry, where businesses are constantly looking for ways to stand out from the competition.
Due to its reduced ink usage and waste production, digital printing is also more environmentally friendly than conventional techniques. For all of these reasons, it is no surprise that the package printing industry has been increasingly turning to software and digital technology.
No longer the new kid on the block, digital printing has made significant inroads in the label segment. It was estimated that half of the companies serving the label segment and packaging industry have some form of digital capability. It has established a niche for itself. Nowadays, packaging companies own either a second, third, or fourth generation of equipment in digital printing. Just like what i-Sub did back in 2015.
In the corrugated market, digital has also gained a significant foothold. Other packaging markets are still in the early stages of adopting this technology. Today, digital is just another tool in the printer’s toolbox. Still, some think, packaging manufacturers shouldn’t get too caught up in the hype. Whether or not to use digital depends on the job at hand and what will produce the best results for the customer.
Flexible Packaging
While digital printing technologies have made great strides in recent years, they still have some way to go before they can completely revolutionise the flexible packaging industry. One of the main challenges is the need to develop inks and substrates that can meet the demands of flexible packaging.
Another challenge is the need to design printing systems that are capable of handling the various types of flexible packaging materials. These difficulties might seem overwhelming.
But continuous research and development will help in overcoming these challenges. After all, digital technologies have already made a significant impact on the flexible packaging industry, and it is only a matter of time before they become the norm.
Print Labels on Packaging
There are also a number of dry-toner and inkjet systems on the market, each with its own advantages. Ultimately, the best system for your needs will depend on a variety of factors, including budget, production volume, and print quality requirements.
Direct-to-Container Printing
The container market is rife with opportunities for those interested in digital printing technologies. Packaging companies spent hundreds of millions of dollars developing printing solutions. But there is still much work to be done in order to significantly increase the use of digital technologies. At present, only a tiny fraction of the total volume is printed using these methods.
Fortunately, i-Sub is one of those companies that are innovating in these areas. Its Digi-foil continues to bring packaging solutions to its market.
