Vanguard is central focus for Horizon’s sustainability drive

As an established Durst printing house, we’ve made many investments with the group over the years – and it’s been good news all round.

Now we’ve taken the plunge and become the first printing house in Europe to take a Vanguard digital machine, which has become the central focus of our sustainability drive.

The icing on the cake came when we won the Green Manufacturer Award in Ireland’s Green Business and Sustainability Awards 2023. In the process we beat the likes of household names such as Coca-Cola and others.

This major investment also involved LIFT ERP software from Vanguard Europe parent company Durst that is also helping to take our production to new levels, as we continue our transformation into one of Europe’s most sustainable and innovative printing companies.

The green credentials of the VK3200 roll-to-roll machine are why Vanguard is at the centre of sustainability drive.

Benefits of our fabulous, user-friendly machine from Vanguard include printing excellent quality products 10 times faster than previously at a fraction of the cost.

It has super-fast turnaround time, and the cost of the power consumption is predicted to be a 10th of the power our previous system, thanks to the LED functionality.

The Vanguard is so versatile –fabrics, PE, paper, mesh and PVC vinyl  are among many the materials we print on. It is an ideal product for our needs, with perfect image quality, and is extremely reliable.

For one of our clients in Dublin, JCDecaux, we have many positive comments about the quality of the lightbox skins that are all produced on the Vanguard.

What’s more, we had a painless installation that only took two days followed by a couple of days training.

With ongoing support from Durst and Vanguard we’re confident of continuing our ongoing sustainability and ongoing company success story.

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Durst expands with Aleph acquisition

Durst has made another strategic acquisition with the takeover of fellow Italian textile and industrial printing specialist Aleph.

An Aleph textile printer with integrated drying system

Aleph is based in Como, at the heart of the Italian textile design industry, and its location was also an attractive factor for Brixen-headquartered Durst.

The firm was founded in 1999 as a specialist software business developing tools for the textile industry.

It subsequently moved into hardware, firstly with a winding and unwinding system, and then into water-based printing, culminating in the creation of its Laforte range of printers which print direct-to-fabric or direct-to-paper. The range spans devices targeted at low- to mid-volumes up to high speed models capable of printing 1,000sqm/hr.

Aleph’s focus is on environmental and social sustainability, and it has concentrated on creating devices that require low consumption of resources including water and energy.

In the past the company has collaborated and partnered with Mimaki.

Durst has acquired the business from Wise Equity, which took a stake in 2017, and Aleph’s three founders who remain with the company.

Durst CEO and co-owner Christoph Gamper said he was delighted to welcome Aleph into the Durst family of businesses.

“Their expertise in sustainable, water-based applications, their software for high-end textiles, and their creative solutions for water-based poster printing align perfectly with our vision of pushing the boundaries of digital printing technology.

“Together, we will strengthen our market position, expand our product portfolio, and enhance value for our global customers,” he stated.

Around 60% of Aleph’s sales come from outside Italy, and the firm is active in more than 20 countries.

 

At the Fespa Global Print Expo show held in Munich in May, Aleph showed its flagship range of kit including the Laforte 600 Paper. The 600 Paper prints high volume, high quality at 850sqm/hr with 24 printheads and at 1,000sqm/hr with 48 printheads, using Aleph’s proprietary water-based A22 graphic pigment inks.

Aleph’s main target markets are textiles, billboards and posters, soft signage, and home décor.

Alessandro Manes, CEO of Aleph, said it was an exciting new chapter for the business. He said: “Our shared passion for technological innovation, the pursuit of excellence, and the commitment to true sustainability define this collaboration. Together, we have the opportunity to make significant advancements in the digital textiles, exterior, and interior decoration sectors.”

Aleph has 32 employees and had sales of almost €14m (£12m) last year.

Durst said both companies were committed to ensuring a smooth transition for customers, partners, and employees during the integration process.

Three years ago Durst expanded its product range and US presence with the acquisition of Vanguard.

Durst also has a joint venture with Koenig & Bauer for the VariJet 106 B1 sheetfed inkjet press for folding cartons.

 

 

 

 

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Eight Pinnacle Awards for Durst Group

The Durst Group, comprised of Durst Image Technology and Vanguard Digital Printing Systems, has received eight PRINTING United Alliance Pinnacle Awards this year. 

A panel of experienced judges across the printing industry evaluated the annual contest’s 160+ entries in more than 58 categories spanning analog, digital, output, and non-output technologies. These eight awards reaffirm the Durst Group’s position as a trailblazer in the industry. 

Becky McConnell, Marketing Manager, Durst North America, commented, “Durst is known throughout the industry for our innovative and groundbreaking technologies. We have been honored by these awards many times over the years, but we are truly moved to have received eight awards this year.”  

Durst’s continual focus on the future has led to “360 Production Excellence,” which offers integrated systems and solutions for fully automated, sustainable and cost-effective print production.

Tim Saur, President and Managing Director of North America, added, “I am proud of the sheer number of awards but even more excited that they represent our complete solutions across varying market segments, technology and applications that enhance and increase the operational effectiveness of our customers.”   

McConnell continued to say, “Participating in this award competition gives us an opportunity to highlight our technological advances and demonstrate to the industry what the future looks like. Our mission is to deliver the highest quality option possible to our customers, and today we celebrate these wins with them.” 

 The following products won 2023 Pinnacle Awards: 

  • Durst Smart Shop: awarded Software – Web-based Design, Personalization or Product Building
  • Durst P5 Tex: awarded Roll-to-Roll Direct Disperse Ink on Textile
  • Durst P5 500: awarded Roll-to-Roll UV (Over 80 Inches)
  • Durst Delta SPC 130: awarded Single Pass Printer
  • Durst P5 350 HS D4: awarded UV/Hybrid/Flatbed High Volume Production Class
  • Durst P5 350 HS: awarded UV/Latex Hybrid (More Than $500K)
  • Durst P5 Robotics: 2023 Technology Award
  • Vanguard VKH900-HS: awarded UV/Latex Hybrid ($100K-$500K) 

 

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Reel Appeal chooses Durst RSCi | Labels & Labeling

K trade printer Reel Appeal has announced at Labelexpo in Brussels, Belgium, that it has invested in a Tau RSCi single-pass label press from Durst.

Reel Appeal is also doubling the size of its digital set-up at its headquarters in Oldham, North-West England, in the UK. Installation is set for October.

The Durst tau RSCi press, the first to be installed in the UK and Ireland, will add new capabilities and print at twice the speed as more jobs are moved from flexo to digital production. A key reason for the investment was the Durst Tau RSCi’s ability to print at 1200dpi, which will open up new markets for Reel Appeal – traditionally a major player in agro-chemical labels – such as hair and beauty. 

‘We recognized the potential when we first started in digital 10 years ago,’ said Reel Appeal’s managing director Barry Lewis. ‘I first saw the Durst tau RSCi at Labelexpo Americas in Chicago last year. I liked the quality and build and came away with a really good impression. I then went to other manufacturers and did more research, but the RSCi was by far the best quality, had a good total cost of ownership and far more capabilities. I was also really impressed by the set up in that Durst makes the machines from scratch at its headquarters in Brixen, Italy. The 1200dpi will really up the print quality, help us to lower ink costs, and will be a door-opener into other markets, such as hair and beauty.’

Lewis added: ‘Digital technology has revolutionized the label industry and we have been no exception. Without the costly set-up and origination costs, digital printing allows multiple sorts to be easily printed on the same print run however short. The RSCi investment is another huge step forward for our business.’

Simon Cosh, Durst’s UK and Ireland business development manager, said: ‘We are delighted to announce this sale at Labelexpo. Reel Appeal will benefit not only from the uplift in quality from the 1200dpi functionality but also lower ink usage as well as a big increase in capacity that will enable the company to complete longer run work.’

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Visit Labelexpo 11-14/9 at Brussels Expo, Belgium

Labelexpo Europe is known as the most important trade fair for labels, package printing and production technology opens its doors from the 11th to the 14th of September at the Brussels Expo, Belgium.

The latest trends and technologies in label design, printing and processing techniques, as well as environmentally-friendly approaches in digital label technology will be shown.

LinoGroup will be present at this world’s largest event at the stands of Durst Group, GM (Grafisk Maskinfabrik) and Sei Laser showing their state-of-art technology.

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GM to showcase next level label finishing technology at Labelexpo 2023

August 2023, Denmark – GM (Grafisk Maskinfabrik) will bring the full force of its advanced finishing solutions for digitally printed labels to Labelexpo Europe 2023 in September. The Danish specialist manufacturer will demonstrate nine machines at the show, all designed to streamline the converting process and empower converters to finish first.

 

“We are really looking forward to showing visitors the many innovative ways that our machines can optimize their finishing process,” says Uffe Nielsen, GM’s CEO. “Automation is driving profits and it is the key to growth. Our mission is to build automation into as many aspects as possible, whether that is through technology innovation, like the GM laser die-cutting module, or partnerships with other industry leaders, such as CERM.”

The spotlight on stand 9A40 will shine on the highly automated DC350Flex+ Wine line for premium label embellishment. Designed for adding maximum value to digital labels for luxury markets, particularly wine, spirits, cosmetics, and beauty, it is particularly noteworthy for its exceptional foiling and embossing capabilities and striking digital varnish effects.
The DC350+ Flex Wine features a 50-ton hot stamping module, which uses multiple foil streams. It also comes with an integrated Foil Saver which effectively reduces the wastage of costly foils, while GM’s QuickMount technology facilitates faster mounting of the embossing plates.

 

DC350Flex+ Wine will feature the DVM350 Digital Varnish Module, which uses the latest inkjet technology for digital embellishment. This is a faster, more flexible, and cost-effective alternative to screen-printing for adding spot varnish, high-build tactile effects, including warning triangles and Braille, as well as metallics and holograms, all in one process.

 

“Digital varnish and digital foil will shape the future of a highly competitive market in short to medium-run digital label printing,” states Uffe. “On the DC350Flex+ you get the option to add these capabilities with the fantastic DVM350 Digital Varnish Module, giving you tool-free operation, full flexibility in design, faster job changes, and lower costs. That really is a game-changer!”

 

Also introducing the highly anticipated addition to the GM line-up: the DC350Flex+! This machine will be showcasing its incredible capabilities. Boasting a remarkable rotary die-cutting speed of 130 m/min (or 80 m/min in semi-rotary mode), the DC350Flex+ series offers complete customization options, making it a versatile powerhouse. Whether you prefer standalone operation or seamless integration with a digital press, the DC350Flex+ has got you covered.

 

 

 

 

 

 

At the other end of the market, GM offers a range of compact and ultra-compact highly effective finishing machines. The show will demonstrate the power of the smallest offering, the DC350Nano, which will impress with its power, speed, and flexibility, all built-in to the smallest footprint machine. Meanwhile, a wider version of GM’s compact Hot Foil unit, the new HF350, will demonstrate an affordable and simple way of adding embossing and foiling effects. It can be set up as an independent embellishment unit or connected to a digital press or the DCMini compact label finisher, which will also be introduced at the show.

 

Visitors to the show can also experience the SR550 slitter inspection rewinder, which offers high-speed slitting up to 300m/min and 100% quality inspection; the LR250+ label camera inspection rewinder, which can be configured for pharma labels and even turned into a mini-inkjet digital press; the LR250 economical label inspection rewinder that comes as vertical tabletop model; the CC160S semi-automatic core cutter; and the CS350 high-speed sheeter. In addition, the team will be handing out samples of functional labels equipped with RFID technology, allowing visitors to experience the capabilities of the new GM RFID lines firsthand.

 

“It goes without saying that Labelexpo is a key event for this industry, and we always dedicate a lot of time, money, and effort to the show,” concludes Uffe. “For GM, it is all about getting the chance to speak with people and show them, in person, how our finishing lines with high levels of automation and connectivity can make a real difference to their business. While our video Tech Talks are a great way to demonstrate our fantastic machines, it will never replace the up-close-and-personal experience of visiting our Labelexpo stand and seeing them live.”   

 

You can meet GM on stand 9A40 at the Brussels Expo on 11–14 September 2023.

 

For more information – please do not hesitate to contact us at:
Phone: +45 45 81 23 00

Email: gm@gm.dk

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Durst Lift ERP – “A single point tool to look at everything in your company”

Infinity Images successfully implemented Durst Lift ERP, the ERP software that provides a single integrated platform to run every aspect of the print business.

Founded in 2000, Infinity Images has positioned itself as a leading design, print, and fabrication house based in Portland, Oregon. Renowned for its specialization in large-format printing and dimensional retail displays, Infinity Images has become a trusted partner for world-class brands.

The implementation of Lift ERP significantly reduced touchpoints and eliminated unnecessary steps, providing a comprehensive platform to manage every aspect of their print business. “It’s a single point tool to look at everything in your company and the status of all the stuff that you have underway”, says President and CEO George Gross.

Additionally, Infinity Images has enhanced their customer experience through the software customer management system. This seamless feature allows clients to place orders directly through the system, without the need for human interaction. By streamlining the order process, Infinity Images ensures faster order processing, resulting in improved customer satisfaction.

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Durst Group showcases Durst Hawk Eye

Durst Group introduces the revolutionary Durst Hawk Eye technology at Labelexpo Europe 2023. This technology, which utilizes computer vision and artificial intelligence, will assist operators, and automate the print quality. Additionally, it significantly reduces setup time and waste, resulting in enhanced efficiency and an even more competitive total cost of ownership (TCO) for the Tau RSC platform printers.

Moreover, Durst Group will unveil the next generation of the Tau RSC UV ink set. This new ink set, available in the colors CMYK OVG and white, meets the latest regulatory requirements and expands the converters’ application range even further.

On the showfloor, alongside a new digital printing press, the successful Tau 510 RSCi will be showcased. Equipped with the newly developed double white feature, this press will demonstrate it’s capabilities in real-time, printing at a remarkable speed of 100m/min at a printing width of 510mm, leading to a unmatched productivity of over 3000sqm per hour.

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Elitron – Let your creativity take shape

“Elitron has been heavily investing in innovative technology and automation to meet the growing demands of the sign & display and corrugated packaging markets,” begins Paolo Malatesta, Executive Director, Elitron. “Let your creativity take shape with Elitron’s complete platform of cutting & automation systems, and software. From stand-alone, multi-function sampling and production cutting systems with optional loading  and unloading/stacking, to fully automatic, integrated pallet-to- pallet industrial cutting automation there’s an Elitron cut out for your workload.”

Since the launch of the first pallet-to-pallet Kombo TAV cutting system in 2012, Elitron’s automatic, industrial cutting platform has gone from strength to strength. From pallet-to- pallet productivity, the platform now offers many more  interesting and patented features which have increased productivity both in family-run and multinational companies alike.

Single and multi-pallets are managed with minimal operator intervention during set up, for truly unmanned productivity, 24/7, with patented, integrated pallet logistics for non-stop production. The integrated, patented camera system, ‘Seeker System’ identifies the position of the printed graphics and reference point from both the top and underside and realigns the cutting file to allow for any possible distortion, for seamless productivity and the highest quality finish.

Alongside printed boards, Kombo TAV makes light of cutting & creasing corrugated, cardboard and honeycomb materials.“Single pallets and stacks can be loaded and unloaded from the front and back for in-line production, or from the sides if space is an issue in the production site and a smaller footprint is required,” adds Malatesta.

The optional, integrated rolling system, for roll-in, roll-out multi- pallet logistics management is engineered to meet the specific site automation requirements and can incorporate the automatic, in-line or stand alone, Reversa sheet turner for further automation.

Another option that has been widely adopted is the Acetal unloading conveyor which can be programmed to unload single, or batches of boards as required.

Two independent, multi-tool cutting heads cut and crease single or multiple smaller boards and Elitron’s patented ‘Airo Panel’ then removes all cut and waste material and creates a neat stack in the unloading bay, on the waiting pallet.

The highly eficient vacuum Airo Panel removes even the most testing cutting jobs and waste materials completely, and the company says that many of its customers say, “the Airo Panel is a real game-changer”.

For honeycomb, double and triplewall boards, the new, patented DL45 tool makes light of cutting a 90 degree V-Cut in one single pass, cutting production times of these materials by 50%, without compromising on the highest quality finish

The recently launched new PMH, Protective Material Handling system, ensures printed board is handled with the utmost care when being automatically loaded, to avoid any damage to the print. This system doesn’t drag sheets when loading but uses a contactless method to prevent any damage.

“Not only have Elitron invested in innovation of late, but they have also reduced energy consumption for their customers too. From 2023 all Elitron systems now come with the new EPMS, Elitron Power Management System which reduces energy consumption of the powerful vacuum by up to 50%,” concludes Malatesta.

see more at :

www.elitron.com

 

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Vale Labels grows digital print capabilities with Durst Tau 330 RSC-E

Leatherhead, Surrey – 30.06.23 – Vale Labels has enhanced its business with an investment in a market-leading leading Tau 330 RSC-E UV LED single-pass press from Durst, manufacturer of advanced digital printing and production technologies.

The Wellington, Somerset manufacturer of high quality labels with specialist finishes works closely with major brands and prides itself on high levels of customer service across sectors including food and drink, manufacturing, cosmetics and supplements. Vale Labels sets standards of excellence in print.

Vale Labels’ investment followed extensive research and testing in the market. Matthew Riches, Director at Vale Labels, explains the choice: “Installing the Durst Tau 330 has been an important step forward for us and will enhance our current capabilities as a printer.

“As we supply a number of industries including food, beverage, industrial, health and beauty products, we had to ensure we could print onto the widest range of materials possible. We also worked closely with Durst prior to the installation regarding our embellishment and finishing options. The support from Durst has been excellent. Our customers have come to expect the highest quality print standards from us and we had to ensure we kept that bar at the highest point.”

Simon Cosh, Labels Business Development Manager of Durst UK & Ireland, said: “Our market-leading Tau platform supports a wide range of production needs, and we are delighted that Vale Labels chose our variable, versatile and highly productive Tau technology to power its ongoing growth. The increased capacity for high quality labels this investment delivers will support its production needs well into the future. It will provide operational confidence to enhance its relationships with leading brands and expand its service offering.”

The Durst Tau 330 RSC-E press provides photo-like quality thanks to 1200×1200 dpi that can print on a drop size as small as 2 picolitre. The Durst Tau can run at 1,020 m2 / hour at a printing speed of 52 m/min printing full colour including white.

 

 

 

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