Encad's new VinylJet? 36 inkjet printer uses special infrared-curable aqueous inks and an onboard infrared heater to create outdoor-durable graphics on vinyls that cost less than the receptor-coated vinyls typically used with aqueous inks. Priced at $12,995, the 36-in., 600-dpi, four-color inkjet printer is designed to appeal to small- to mid-sized sign shops who don't want to install the ventilation systems required by inkjet printers that use inks with aggressive solvents to adhere to non-receptor-coated vinyls. Encad's proprietary AquaVinyl? ink contains 85% fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than many of the solvent-based inks used to digitally output outdoor graphics. Encad is also promoting the fact that the AquaVinyl ink has a higher color gamut than many solvent-based inks currently on the market.
The VinylJet's printing system uses an internal heating system to pre-heat the vinyl for optimal ink reception. After the ink is printed, an infrared (IR) lamp cures the ink to create an impermeable bond. The printer outputs in four different preset modes, with throughput speeds ranging from 23 to 55 sq ft/hr.
Encad, a wholly owned subsidiary of Eastman Kodak Company, developed AquaVinyl Ink and printing technology with expertise from DuPont, a leading manufacturer of inkjet inks, and Avery Dennison, a leading maker of vinyls for large-format graphics. The VinylJet is supplied with a 60-day trial version of Scanvec Amiable's Flexi-Banner print-management software
Vinyls that have been satisfactorily tested on the VinylJet 36 are listed on Encad's web-site, and include: cast vinyls from Arlon, Flexcon and 3M; calendered vinyls from Arlon, Avery, Flexon, and MACtac; and banner materials from L.G., See Mee, and Avery (Saturn? 9.5 oz and Mercury 11 oz).
Performance Guarantee: Avery Dennison is guaranteeing that certain products in its MPI (Multipurpose Inkjet) line will last up to 3 years. The length of the guarantee depends on whether the images are produced on cast or calendered vinyl, protected with an Avery overlaminate, and/or used in non-abrasive applications. (Encad: www.encad.com)