At Gulf Print & Pack 2024, a leading exhibition for commercial and packaging printers in the Middle East and North Africa that took place from 9-11 January in Dubai, Jetsci Global from Monotech Systems launched the Jetsci dSpark Hybrid+, an advanced digital label finishing and converting machine.
Driven by inkjet technology using UV-curable fluids, the dSpark Hybrid+ enhances product labels and packaging to new dimensions, offering a complete solution to label and packaging printers and converters, the company said.
According to Jimit Mittal, president of Jetsci Global, the dSpark Hybrid+ is compatible with a wide array of digitally or conventionally printed substrates for enhancements. The web cleaner and an inline surface treatment corona unit ensure impeccable preparation for the enhancement process.
“The press has two fully servo-driven spot registered flexo printing units. The first unit is pre-inkjet and can be employed for last-minute color additions to labels, security printing, and more providing flexibility in label customization. The second fully servo-driven spot registered flexo unit, post inkjet station further enhances labels and packaging in real-time, adding to the press’ comprehensive capabilities.”
Unlike the previous model of dSpark, the new Hybrid+ version is designed for both converting and finishing, said Priyanka Rathi, DGM marketing and communications, Jetsci Global.
“The new 330 mm wide press is designed to finish and convert digitally printed labels and seamlessly integrate with conventional or digital printing processes, expanding its versatility. This new technology is especially efficient for packaging providers in alcohol, perfume, and other luxury packaging segments,” she adds.
The cold foil setup, driven by either digital UV inkjet or the second flexo unit, provides users with the flexibility to choose based on job requirements, featuring differential unwind and rewind shafts for efficient foil usage. Additionally, it may be used for security and special ink applications.
Mittal says the chilled drum at each UV curing station makes the dSpark Hybrid+ an ideal choice for all labels and packaging materials, including heat-sensitive and a wide range of unsupported substrates, allowing the press to be compatible with a gamut of enhancement options. The all-in-one solution represents a significant investment for label and packaging printers and converters seeking high performance and versatility.
He adds, “The UV inkjet Digital Varnish unit offers high build, variable deposition varnish, high gloss, or digital foil applications. With resolutions of up to 1440 dpi and a speed of up to 35 meters per minute, this unit sets a new benchmark in label finishing. It is equipped with a semi/full rotary die-cut station, boasting quick setup features, waste matrix rewind, slitting capabilities, and a full servo-driven dual rewind system. This ensures efficiency and precision in the finishing and converting process.”
Commenting on Gulf Print & Pack, Mittal said it was an enriching experience. “In terms of both commercial and technical, the Indian and Gulf markets are very different. The exhibition gave us good leads on several aspects and we are optimistic about having a good penetration in the Gulf markets in the foreseeable future. The markets are leaning more towards digital finishing rather than printing so our R&D has also been working towards it.”
