Quick-drying resin ink prints also help shops save time in fleet graphics production.
What are some of the features shop owners should look for when considering a resin ink printer?
DV: First, a shop owner should make sure the printer they are evaluating has the production capability and throughput required for their business. Resin ink printers are available in a range of production speeds, so it is important the printer they are considering can produce at the speed and volume they need to maintain their shop’s productivity.
Second, they should ask for test prints, to ensure the ink formulation and printing technology offered by a given manufacturer can produce high-quality prints for a variety of applications. If their team is considering adding high-margin products such as vehicle or environmental graphics to their portfolio, they will need an inkset and a printer that can consistently produce vibrant, rich, durable, and adaptable prints.
Third, as with all wide-format products, they should look for a manufacturer known for producing reliable equipment. For most shops, printing equipment is one of their most important investments, and it is critical the printer they select remains functional and continues to produce vibrant, detailed output over time. It is also a good idea to inquire about the printhead technology. Some manufacturers use a thermal printhead, which can degrade over time, resulting in colour variation when trying to repeat a print. Other companies use a piezoelectric printhead, a type of industrial printhead that consistently delivers vivid, accurate prints year after year, without the need for replacement. Thus, if a shop needs to repeat a print three or four years later, they will not have to worry about being able to produce the same colours.
Lastly, it is important to seek out a resin ink printer manufacturer that provides great support and a solid, trouble-free warranty. While most manufacturers offer a one-year warranty, there are certain companies that back up their products for two years, or even offer extended warranty options for up to five years.
What do you see for the future of the resin ink printing market?
DV: Overall, the printed graphics market will continue its current pattern of growth, and the popularity of resin ink printers will increase further as the market expands. Signage and custom graphics are more in demand than ever, and although eco-solvent ink still makes up the bulk of the outdoor durable graphics market, more users are seeking out resin ink printing technologies. The sustainability of resin and latex inks, along with the improved, fast-drying formulations now available, are making this type of print production more popular than ever.
Ginny Mumm is a freelance consultant for digital inkjet printer/cutter provider Roland DGA. For more information, visit www.rolanddga.com.
