THE CASE FOR UV
UV LED technology under the spotlight
Power consumption
UV lamp
UV LED
High
Low
Lifetime
Short
Long
Heat generation
High
Low
Printable Substrates
Plastics, Papers, Glass,
Plastics (including heat-
Cartonboard, concave
sensitive plastics), Vinyl,
and flat substrates,
Banner, Canvas, Film,
Polyesters, Foam board,
Membrane Switches,
Styrene, Wood, Stone,
Papers, Glass, Cartonboard,
Polycarbonates, Acrylics,
concave and flat
PVC, Aluminum, Metal
substrates, Polyesters, Foam board, Styrene, Wood, Stone, Polycarbonates, Acrylics, PVC, Aluminum Metal
Applications
More and more large format printers are now employing UV technology and many are now also opting for UV LED. Printer manufacturer, Mimaki, explains the pros and cons of both technologies. nkjet printing is a complex
I
Accessories (leather belts,
Floor Graphics, Vehicle
etc), Art reproduction,
wrapping, Posters,
Backlit Graphics,
Banners, Indoor graphics,
Construction signs,
Labels, Film, Accessories
Displays, Exhibition signs,
(leather belts, etc), Art
Lenticular, ID cards, Logos
reproduction, Backlit
(3D), Operation panels,
Graphics, Construction
Relational gifts, Clothing
signs, Displays, Exhibition
accessories, Golf balls,
signs, Lenticular, ID cards,
Machine name plates and
Logos (3D), Operation
operation panels, Magnets,
panels, Relational gifts,
Mobile phone covers, Pens,
Clothing accessories,
Novelties, Giveaways,
Machine name plates and
Signs, Stickers, Giftshop
operation panels, Novelties,
articles
Giveaways, Signs, Stickers,
technology that encompasses machines, printheads, inks and
Giftshop articles Environmental footprint
High
Low
substrates, all of which need to complement each other in
UV/UV LED comparison
order to achieve good results. But the demands of specific applications play
pad printing methods find it more difficult
service providers to print on to many types
an important role in determining which
to print on to uneven surfaces, but brilliant
of plastics, as well as different substrates,
large and superwide format printer is
colours, full-colour photo image data and
thus offering a broad spectrum of
most suitable. If we take a look at the
even smooth gradations are achieved by
applications.
technologies and their implications, we
inkjet printing methods.
can see that inkjet is a non-contact printing
Inkjet printers which use UV curable
However, the UV lamps used in this process generate a lot of heat, which
method for highly precise direct printing
inks need to cure the ink because it
restricts the kind of substrate that is suitable
on to concave, convex and flat material
incorporates monomers, a liquid with
for UV printing. In addition, the whole UV
surfaces. Traditional screenprinting and
very small molecules that need to be
light spectrum is output.
fused together in a process known as
non contact printing principle
polymerisation, in order to fix them firmly
UV LED
on to the material. When the particles are
Newer printers, such as Mimaki’s UJV-160,
exposed to UV light, they are cured, to
use another radiation source for the curing
fuse the molecules together, as well as to
process: UV LEDs. These consist of UV light
make them adhere to the substrate. This
diodes that emit rays within a narrow UV
polymerising reaction is called monomer
light range. Inks whose monomers have
binding. UV curable ink, which cures soon
been sensitised to this specific range can
after printing, does not usually contain
be cured via the same process used by
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and is
UV lamps. As UV diodes do not generate
therefore environmentally friendly. Direct
heat, many more substrates, such as
printing on to non-absorbent materials
membrane switches, heat-sensitive PVC
is possible, as the coated layers of the
and other plastics, films and papers
resinous polymers produce printed images
can be successfully used, broadening
on the surface of the materials. The ink
the choice of applications that can be
is instantly dried after irradiation with UV
produced. Additionally, the warm up and
light. This explains why UV ink does not
cool down time necessary with UV lamps
seep into the surface and ink penetration
is eliminated. UV LEDs can be switched on
is kept to a minimum. UV ink enables print
and off immediately. Power consumption
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
19
THE CASE FOR UV
UV light
Monomer (low molecule) (liquid ink)
Monomer (low molecular) binding 㧔polymerizing reaction)
Polymer (high molecule) Resinous printed material
UV curing process
of the respective machines is significantly
tables for feed and delivery, enabling print
reduced, as not only do the LEDs need less
service providers to print on to light/rigid
power; they can also be switched off when
materials as well as roll to roll. The UJV-160
they are not needed. The lifetime of UV
combines the productivity, efficiency and
LEDs is far higher than that of conventional
environmental features that future-oriented
UV lamps.
print service providers require.
Mimaki offers a wide range of UV inkjet
In combination with Mimaki’s UV
solutions, as well as the new state-of-the-
flexible inks for UV LED printing, the
art UV LED UJV-160 hybrid large format
range of applications can be further
printer. High image quality is ensured with
broadened. These inks do not crack
variable droplets and a resolution of up to
when bent, as their surface tension can
1200 x 1200 dpi. To accommodate different
tolerate expansions of up to 200 percent,
media thicknesses, an automatic head
thus making them ideal for printing on to
height mechanism is employed to avoid
uneven and curved surfaces.
head strikes and other undesirable issues.
For further information visit:
The UJV-160 comes complete with two
www.mimaki.jp
Durst backs UV
D
urst, from the outset of its
print, including the media, recyclability,
environment hazard; toxicity; problematic
inkjet business, has only
and ink, conforms to their environmental
substances; and volatile organic
been concerned with
platform.
substances (VOCs).
environmentally friendly
Durst has looked at the whole aspect of
Caring for the environment
printing processes. That
recyclability of its inks and independent
also includes the materials used in
is why it has exclusively followed the UV
tests carried out by the Institute for Paper
constructing the printer, e.g. the total
curing ink route. Durst Rho inks contain no
Science and Technology in Darmstadt,
energy consumption and, in particular,
VOCs and strictly conform to the ‘Restriction
Germany have certified that Durst Rho
that used by the UV lamps, the quantity
of Hazardous Substances’ (RoHS) Directive
inks printed onto corrugated board are
of ink required for flushing or purging
2002/96/EC and Waste Electrical and
‘recyclable’ according to PTS-RH:21/97.
in order to maintain the printheads,
Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
Rho inks have been further tested and
and the recyclability of the printed inks
2002/96/EC. This means that Durst’s Rho
meet Toy Standard EN71 Part 3, which
and substrate. Typically, a Durst printer
inks do not have to carry the symbol of the
limits the concentration of specific heavy
will require purging once a day. It is not
‘dead fish’ or ‘dead tree’.
metals in the coatings used for toys,
uncommon for machines from other
including antimony, arsenic, barium,
manufacturers to require purging up to
the fact that UV curing inks with “very low”
cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury and
five or six times per day. This of course,
solvents, or VOC free inks, which include
selenium. Durst has also recently applied
not only wastes between 400 and 450ml
photo initiators, can still contaminate the
for the ‘The Nordic Swan’ symbol – a
of ink per shift and, over the year, more
water table and therefore have to carry
world-leading Ecolabel, for its Rho inks.
than 125 litres, but is also very damaging
the mark of the ‘dead fish’ or the ‘dead
The Nordic Ecolabel was established in
to the environment, and the print service
tree’. They might believe that by just using
1989 by the Nordic Council of Ministers,
provider’s pocket!
UV inks they are fully conforming to the
with the purpose of providing an
growing requests from their customers who
environmental labelling system which will
factors in the manufacture of its machines,
are, in general, becoming much more
contribute to sustainable consumerism.
and its extensive R & D programme
environmentally aware.
It was also initiated as a practical tool for
continues to have environmental issues at
consumers, to help them actively choose
the forefront of its work, now and for the
Many printers may seem unaware of
Many large organisations with real
Durst is concerned with all the above
environmental protection philosophies,
environmentally sound products. In the
foreseeable future.
such as Starbucks or Ben & Jerry’s, are
case of inks, the Nordic Ecolabelling
For further information visit:
looking at the complete process of how
covers the following classifications:
www.durst-online.com
20
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
GREEN PRINTERS
Simpson Group leads the way
A
t Simpson Group we have always been environmentally aware, working with our suppliers
Sarah Weir, General Manager at Simpson Group, highlights the company’s green strategies.
to reduce and eliminate,
where possible, the solvent content of our inks and stencil cleaners. With the installation of the Man Roland Large
towards PAS 75, the recently developed
Certificates for
Format Litho press and the Fujifilm CTP
‘Publicly Available Standard for Excellence
both types of
developer, we worked with our authorised
in Service’, within the print industry. This
papers. However,
hazardous waste collector to treat the
decision took us another step closer to
even this was not
chemicals so they were safe to discharge
improving our environmental strategies,
as simple as you
to trade effluent. Added to that, our new
including the documentation of them,
might expect.
bespoke headquarters was designed with
to satisfy an integral clause within the
Having obtained
the latest environmental considerations in
standard directed at Environmental
the accreditation,
mind, including interceptor tanks in the
Management Systems (EMS).
we still struggle to
car parks to collect any oil spillages and leaks from vehicles. Over recent years we have noticed a
Throughout 2007, more and more
purchase FSC material in the large format
clients and prospects began to ask for their
size we require at a commercially viable
POS materials to be produced using FSC
price. At the same time,
greater drive from
Over recent years we have noticed a greater drive from our clients, pushing more and more for us to help them demonstrate green credentials, throughout their supply chains
our clients, pushing more and more for us to help them demonstrate green
we invited the Carbon Trust to come and conduct a carbon survey on site. They identified an 11-point
credentials throughout their supply chains. Whilst we had always
or PEFC certified paper, without, in some
action plan for us to work through to
complied with ISO 14001, it was not one of
cases, even fully understanding what they
help reduce our carbon emissions and
our recognised accreditations.
were asking for! Thus, our natural next
energy usage and as a result, to help us
step was to secure the Chain of Custody
save money. These ranged from simply
In 2005 we took the decision to work
making our employees aware of what they could do to help prevent energy wastage, to investing in different areas of the factory to improve our energy control. In line with this, we have also signed up to the BPIF Climate Change Levy Umbrella Agreement and achieved the four percent savings set for the first year. Now, we are looking forward to implementing further improvements to achieve the 14 percent reduction required for the next two years. One of our training providers once said: “ISO 14001 can be your best friend”. In 2008 we embarked on a journey to become formally accredited with this standard. Our EMS not only allows us to continually develop, by constantly questioning why we do things in a certain manner and looking for improvements that affect both our profitability and the environment, but has also opened the doors to more clients
22
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
GREEN PRINTERS
and prospects, who wish only to work with
packaging, toner cartridges and small
suppliers, who seriously consider their
batteries away from landfill and into our
impact on the environment.
recycling streams, to ensure our volumes to
In driving environmental considerations into our workforce we have offered them
landfill stay on target and we continue to have a positive impact on our surrounding
NVQ Level 2 in Recycling and Waste
environment.
Management. We already segregated our
For further information visit:
print substrates for recycling, for example:
www.simpsongroup.co.uk
Now, we are looking forward to implementing further improvements to achieve the 14 percent reduction required for the next two years
paper, board, PVC, etc., but we have also started to recycle the plastic shrink wrap from both the goods in and despatch functions of the business and, in addition to this, the plastic strapping from the pallets. Obsolete dyes had always caused issues with their weight and bulk, quickly filling the skips to go to landfill and adding to the cost of waste removal. These are now also recycled; removed from our site by a licensed waste carrier and then processed into chippings. Until recently, the revenue generated from recycling has far and above paid for the cost for any hazardous waste removal or collection of waste to landfill. But although we currently receive no revenue (due to the current economic climate), we still continue to recycle. And it is not only waste from the factory floor that can make a difference; we are also diverting all plastic cups, aluminium cans, plastic bottles, secondary cardboard food
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
23
GREEN PRINTERS
amburg-based Emil Frey KG Siebdruck +
H
to demonstrate that they operate environmentally friendly
Schilder began its green journey by ensuring
production processes. The partnership holds regular meetings
safe working conditions for its employees. In
where partner companies can swap opinions and experiences
the first instance, it worked closely with other
and also discuss ways in which to make the partnership more
screenprinters to encourage the Federal Institute
effective.
Printing Association (BVDM) to provide guidelines with regard to
environmental compatibility not merely as a target but more as
employees’ exposure to toxic chemicals. All employees were then
a way of life. He says: “As far as the environment is concerned,
regularly tested to ensure that the legal limits thus set were strictly
I don’t believe that you ever get to a point where you have
adhered to. At the same time, the company made the decision
finished, because there is always more to be done.
for Occupational Safety and Health (FIOSH) and the German
to change to UV curable inks, wherever possible and installed
Managing Director Hellmuth Frey states that he views
“As long as there are greener materials, greener equipment
an automatic screen cleaning plant, which discharges only
and more ecologically responsible ways of doing things, we will
ink-mud as waste and virtually no solvent effluence. In addition,
continue to adapt and strive to make an even safer workplace
it began to use a much milder solvent for screen cleaning. As
for our employees and greener products for our customers.” He
a result pollution has now been reduced to such a low level
adds that both the national printing associations and FESPA are
that employee testing is no longer necessary, which, as well as
a good source for fresh ideas and information and concludes:
being better for its staff, also reduces Emil Frey KG Siebdruck +
“Our green quest will go on until we find the ultimate green
Schilder’s costs too.
solutions and, since I feel that is still a long time away, our work
The company also belongs to a local environmental partnership, which stipulates that partners should be able
will continue!” For further information visit: www.frey-siebdruck.de
irst established in 1992, as a
chosen to change from using solvent
explains: “Whilst demanding greener
sub-supplier to the sign trade,
based inks to water based latex inks, and
products, clients still expect the same
Sign Services is now the
we are currently studying all of the new
level of performance and quality, and in
leading company of its type in
green substrates that we can find, to see
order to achieve this we sometimes have
Denmark, where it remains the
if they perform satisfactorily and whether
to charge a little more. Hopefully, we will
they are economically viable. Happily, this
soon get to the point where what we are
change in printing methodology has had
offering is better, greener and cheaper
‘trade only’ policy, believes that there are
another very positive outcome in that it has
too, although it is a very hard nut to
several reasons why we should all take
opened up a new revenue stream for us in
crack! We have already gone through
care of the planet. In the first instance, it
the form of producing green products for
this cycle with respect to our LED signs,
sets great store by providing a clean and
our clients.”
which combine superior illumination with
F
premier choice of signmakers. The company, which operates a strict
safe workplace for
a much longer life
When we are looking for new equipment today, one of the things that we take into account is its total impact upon the environment
its employees, but equally important, it feels, is the responsibility it has for
and greatly reduced running costs. And although the initial investment is much
both the environment and its customers,
Benny Eriksen continues: “When we
higher than for more traditional lighting
who are facing a rising demand for
are looking for new equipment today, one
sources, our clients are beginning to
environmentally responsible production
of the things that we take into account
realise that over the full lifetime of the
and products. And last, but by no means
is its total impact upon the environment.
sign, LED works out much cheaper. I am
least, Sign Services has discovered that
We look at its electrical consumption, the
hoping that, in time, substrate suppliers
being able to satisfy these demands
need for ventilation, the amount of waste
will also come up with an original and
actually helps it to make money, a most
in terms of ink and emissions and so on.
superior green material, rather than
important consideration.
The list is growing and the biggest change
simply providing substitutes for materials
is that nowadays, we aren’t just looking at
that are in current use. When this
has always tried to offer its staff a
the economic effects of waste; we need
happens price won’t be quite the issue
safe and congenial workplace, and
to be able to reassure our clients that
that it is now.”
carefully monitors the equipment and
their products have been produced in a
materials it uses and the impact they
responsible way too.”
From the beginning, Sign Service
Benny also provides the best possible reason for being green, when he says:
have on the working environment. Sign Service’s Managing Director, Benny Eriksen
“Being able to
Being able to demonstrate that we take green issues seriously, gives us the opportunity to really stand out from the competition
comments: “In order
demonstrate that we take green issues seriously, gives us the opportunity to really
to meet our customers’ expectations we
Benny goes on to say however, that
stand out from the competition and to win
need to have the best and most motivated
whilst clients now often stipulate that
employees, and to make sure that we keep
products be made from ecologically
as a true win-win situation!”
them.
responsible materials , there is still a
For further information visit:
limit as to how much they will pay. He
www.sign-service.dk and www.giga.org
“Based on this philosophy, we have
24
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
more work as a result – that’s what I regard
GREEN PRINTERS
By offering a uniquely green production concept, which combines equipment, ink and materials, Stiefel has attracted a lot of new customers ocated in Lenting, Germany,
L
the Stiefel Group Europe is an
less, still outputs arresting colours and
greener print methods, Stiefel produces
international organisation
produces outdoor durable prints. Stiefel
lots of samples to demonstrate quality and
that comprises 16 associated
also now uses PVC-free substrates, such
durability. Almost to a man, clients are
companies and employs over
as polypropylene and various substrates
impressed by the wide colour gamut and
300 people in eight different countries.
made from sustainable plant fibres. In
high resolution that the L65500 offers and
Taking as its ethos innovation, competence,
addition, it takes a much more proactive
Stiefel is impressed by the machine’s ease
workmanship and customer proximity, the
approach when buying materials, by
of operation. Although HP offers an online
company’s aim is to provide ‘Innovation in
keeping in touch with its current suppliers,
support facility to help ease companies
Pictures’. Stiefel Digitalprint GmbH, which
as well as continuously sourcing new
through any initial teething problems,
is one of four separate Stiefel companies
ones, so that it can be amongst the first to
Stiefel reports that it was seldom necessary
operating in Germany, styles itself as
trial new substrates as soon as they are
to use it.
one of the most outstanding print service
launched.
providers of large format digital printing in
By offering a uniquely green production
The company’s next step is to focus on every aspect of its production to make
Germany and Austria. Established some 10
concept which combines equipment, ink
it more efficient and effective and in so
years ago, it boasts around 100 employees
and materials, Stiefel has attracted a lot
doing to reduce its energy consumption
and uses an impressive portfolio of 27
of new customers, although initially they
and associated costs.
printers and finishing machines. The
tend to be rather conservative. In order
For further Information visit:
company produces the full gamut of
to show them the full advantages of its
www.stiefel-online.com
printed products, such as banners, building and vehicle wraps, floor graphics and various printed textiles as well as advertising material featuring map motifs, using both rigid and flexible substrates. Some months ago, in response to its global customer base who were demanding greener products, Stiefel implemented its special Bioprint programme. It had already experimented by using different substrates with different inks, with little success, until it saw some examples of work produced using HP’s Latex Ink Technology. Accordingly, Stiefel was one of the first companies in line to buy the new HP Designjet L65500, which uses HP’s specially developed, non-hazardous Latex ink, that, none the
26
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
GREEN CREDENTIALS
Many manufacturers and suppliers have already heeded end-users’ demands for more environmentally friendly products and as well as producing greener alternatives, they’ve streamlined their production processes, as detailed below.
Alcan takes a holistic approach Kerstin Walter, Head of Marketing Strategy at ALCAN COMPOSITES Display Europe, explains the company’s green philosophy
substances, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium (VI), PBB
Having some years ago recognised the growing desire amongst
FSC certification, which underlines the fact that they are sourced
print buyers for their print providers and material suppliers
from sustainable forests and are low chlorine and oxygen
to be able to demonstrate ecological responsibility, we have
bleached, whilst the paper coating of our new FOAM-X material
developed a comprehensive ‘green’ philosophy. This has seen
comprises 100 percent recycled paper.
(polybrominated biphenyl) and PBDE (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) and neither does it contain formaldehyde, FCKW, silicon or softener. Our KAPA product range uses papers with SFI, PE FC as well as
us actively reduce environmental pollution, thanks to the careful and more efficient use of resources, whilst also providing the
Waste reduction and recycling
safest possible working conditions for our staff. In addition,
We have also arranged our production cycle so that it
as a globally active enterprise, we have become an active
can reduce waste and recycle the raw materials used in
campaigner for sustainability, which we classify under three
our production processes. The recycling rate for our most
separate areas: technological, social and economic.
important raw materials is now virtually 100 percent. When we manufacture FOREX, all of the cutting and trimming waste
Environmental management systems
is collected, according to variety, before being re-granulated
For quite some time, our three production sites in Germany and
and reused without any apparent loss of quality. In the DIBOND
Switzerland have been ISO 14001 accredited, and in the lead
manufacturing cycle the aluminium sheets are separated, again
up to our accreditation, we thoroughly overhauled all of our
according to variety, and are processed for complete reuse.
internal practices and systems to ensure that environmental
In addition to comprehensive recycling during production,
issues are properly considered, both during daily tasks and
our Alcan Singen factory is the only manufacturer that also
when corporate policy is being decided. More importantly,
offers a recycling service for used DIBOND. Initially introduced
we continue to set ourselves new targets and monitor our
in Germany, our distributors within the UK are now also
performance by way of regular external audits. Since 2003, one
operating this ‘take-back’ service and
of our most challenging objectives has been to integrate the
we are hoping to eventually expand it
workings of our quality (ISO 9001), environmental protection
throughout Europe. We are also currently y
(ISO 14001) and occupational safety (OHAS 18001) management
determining whether KAPA waste can be
EgZhh >c[dgbVi^dc
;ZheV 9^\^iVa '%%. ¶ <gZZ c >hhjZ
Alcan relies on sustainabil
systems to ensure that that we are following the best and most
used to generate energy.
efficient practice in terms of safety, health and environmental protection. By the same token, when selecting suppliers, we
Innovation
always choose companies who are similarly ISO certificated
Innovation plays a key role in our efforts
and who are able to demonstrate an appropriate level of
to reduce environmental pollution. For
ecocological responsibility.
the most part, the popularity of our
ity and environmental protection
Sustainability and environmental protection represent an increasingly visual communication. The important topic in advertising increased environmental awareness and are becoming essential criteria and the demand for more sustainability for buying decisions. Furthermore, in addition to the need for environmental compatibility, the demand and also overall economic for the company’s social involvement is increasing. Environmental protection as an integrative component of sustainability management Sustainable involvement and the appurtenant sub-area environmental at Alcan amongst the essential corporate objectives at Alcan. The minimisation protection have long since been as well as the reduction of of risks for man and environment environmental pollution through careful and part of the corporate philosophy. Alcan is aware of its responsibility efficient utilisation of resources is has been an active campaigner as a globally active enterprise, in matters of sustainability and for quite some time. Sustainability ment at Alcan deals in depth with all three levels of sustainable managenomic levels. In addition to concrete activities, Alcan endeavoursaction: the ecological, social and ecoseeks dialogue with all interest towards transparent communication groups. and Our responsibility for the environment: in the following fields of action claim into practical reality! we endeavour to implement the Environmental management systems For quite some time our three display production sites in Germany and Switzerland have accordance with ISO 14001, been certified in which establishes globally recognised requirements for agement. Through this it is environmental ensured that the environmental aspects will be taken into consideration manall daily tasks and corporate policy decisions. with On the basis of uniform processes and structures we have hereby appropriate behaviour in the company. We continually endeavour been able to anchor an environmentally external audits. ISO certification to improve our behaviour through is also an important criterion regular in our selection of suppliers. Furthermore, a strong linkage of management systems for quality (ISO 9001), environmental (ISO 14001) and occupational protection safety (OHAS 18001) is an important objective for us. protection tasks will be more The environmental strongly integrated in the operative These industry standards are sequences in this manner. incorporated corporate-wide in a management system in health-environmental protection. the realm of safetyThe programme called into being in 2003 as a self-obligation comprises
DIBOND, FOREX and KAPA products
Substances
is due to the fact that they are ‘fit
In the past few years, discussions about hazardous substances
for purpose’ whilst also conserving resources. rces
have reached fever pitch and now suppliers ignore the
Now FOREXsmart, our latest generation of display substrates,
more exacting requirements of customers at their peril. A
represents another step in the direction of resource efficiency,
comprehensive restructuring of European chemical policy is
since it combines excellent display qualities, including good
now being implemented in line with the directives of the much
printability, high colour rendition and flatness, with good
publicised REACH regulations, and consequently we are working
mechanical properties, rigidity and an extremely low weight.
hard to eliminate all hazardous processes and to ensure that all
For example, with regard to dimensional stability, a 10 mm
of the raw materials we use are harmless.
FOREXsmart sheet is comparable to a solid extruded sheet with
Accordingly, unlike some competing products, the lacquers used in the manufacture of DIBOND do not contain any heavy metals and the entire DIBOND manufacturing programme
a thickness of 6.7 mm, but as it weighs 70 percent less, handling, installation and transportation are easier and cheaper. More and more, ethically sound behaviour is becoming a
has been tested and certificated by an independent
basic prerequisite for any business enterprise and at Alcan we
arbiter. Furthermore, our FOREX product family also meets
are fully aware of our responsibilities!
EU requirements regarding the restriction of hazardous
For further information visit: www.alcan.com/sustainability
28
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
GREEN CREDENTIALS
components and optimum compatibility and printing performance, when used in conjunction with a Kornit printer. The inks successfully meet the California standards for green products, being alkylphenol ethoxylates (APE) free, lead free, chromium free and cadmium free. In addition, Kornit has also developed Epson has initiated several green
manufacturing and construction, while
its own 100 percent environmentally
strategies and there are more in the
metal parts are smelted and reused in
friendly pre-treatment wetting solution.
pipeline.
other industrial applications.
Combining water with wetting additives,
www.epson.co.uk/environment/
it is automatically applied directly on
as environmentally friendly as possible,
Eco_Brochure.pdf and
to the area of the garment that is to be
without sacrificing quality. For example,
www.env.epson-europe.com/
printed, where it prepares the surface for
Currently it is working to make its inks
for its GS6000 Stylus Pro printer, it has
the application of Kornit’s special textile
developed the new Epson UltraChrome
In 2004 Kornit decided to invest in the
inks. During the heat-curing process, the
GS, eight-colour eco-solvent type ink
development of green products, especially
two generate a chemical reaction that
set, which is available in efficient 950ml
inks, even though this required significant
binds the ink to the garment’s fibres. At
cartridges. However, more importantly
funding, much creativity and a lot of
this point, the wetting solution evaporates
for the environment and operators, it
effort in relation to the development of
safely into the atmosphere, and the result
doesn’t spread harmful VOCs and is the
greener solutions. The company’s green
is a four-colour process image, which
first major eco-solvent type ink set to be
ideology began with the provision of an
features excellent colour density and an
launched without the need for a hazard
eco friendly work environment and the
exceptional colour gamut.
symbol. This makes the GS6000 printer both
careful selection of outsourced contractors,
environmentally and user friendly and, as
as Kornit will not now accept any product
its green manufacturing processes, the
there is no need for additional ventilation,
or service from contractors that don’t meet
Kornit ink factory goes through periodic
it can be located in the most convenient
its own exacting environmental standards.
evaluations by independent arbiters.
spot. Furthermore, Epson has focused on
One of its major challenges lay in
For further information visit:
significantly reducing the need for time-
changing the ink chemistry that underpins
www.kornit-digital.com
consuming daily operator maintenance,
the whole garment printing process, as
thus increasing the machine’s productivity.
previously, this has involved various toxic
The Stylus Pro GS6000 is also the company’s first LFP to come complete with a recycling box for its spent ink cartridges.
materials, in order to achieve the optimum printing results clients demanded. Another equally difficult challenge
The Epson Collect&Recycle initiative,
has been the education of the market.
which has been running in Europe since
Kornit has found that it is not always easy
February 2006, has now become part
to persuade a perfectly satisfied customer
of the company’s Environmental Vision
to completely change his production line,
2050 sustainability programme. Epson
especially when there’s no proof that he’ll
operates a free box collection service
also be increasing his profitability!
across Europe and South Africa for empty
In order to ensure the consistency of
However, in 2006 Kornit launched its
cartridges for most of its printer range.
own line of CMYK water based inks, which it
Customers from larger companies, who
has been promoting ever since and which
tend to use cartridges relatively quickly,
achieve the balance between eco friendly
can register online (www.epsoneurope. com/environment/collectandrecycle) to request a collection box, which is delivered within five working days. When full, the customer can request a pick-up and a replacement box if required. 100 percent of the cartridges collected through the scheme are recycled: their plastic components are reused in
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
29
GREEN CREDENTIALS Despite the fact that the front-end
inherit the earth from our parents, we are
chemistry involved in the production
merely borrowing it from our children’.
of graphic films proves a stumbling
Rob subscribes wholeheartedly to
block to eco friendly disposal of excess
this principle and is proud that, over the
or redundant products, Kay Premium
last financial year, KPMF has diverted
Marking Films certainly recognises its
52 tonnes of waste, comprising mainly
responsibility to protect the local and the
packaging, polyethylene, pick hoses,
global environment from any operational
pallet or wood waste, cardboard and
risks and impacts posed at its South
waste pick, from landfill sites. In addition,
Wales site. The company, which is ISO
reports are submitted annually to the
14001accredited, upholds the view that
local authority reporting emissions to
sensitive manufacturing policies can
atmosphere. Measurements are taken via
play a big part in minimising the threat to
a sampling point on the chimney of KPMF’s
our planet, with KPMF Quality Manager,
recuperative thermal oxidiser.
Rob Musto, quoting from a notice that
The KPMF management team assesses
he saw in an Egyptian hotel regarding
all aspects of production for the impact
the laundry of guest’s towels: ‘We did not
they cause and as such, significant
Staedtler – the ecological pioneer Wolfgang Pöhlau, Director Business Unit Ink Jet at STAEDTLER Mars GmbH explains how the development of the company’s Lumocolor Jet Ink came about.
Although our intention was to be the trendsetter for a more environmentally friendly future, we could not anticipate that this ink technology would transform the mindset of the entire industry in such a profound way. But Lumocolor Jet ink technology was indeed a revolution, since we had proven that it is no utopia to develop water based inks capable of doing the ‘heavy jobs’.
“Imagine this: It is winter; children are building igloos and
Today, even big companies are promoting water based inks with
throwing snowballs at each other. Adults are skiing on a thick
similar characteristics and we are justifiably very proud to have
layer of ice-cold powder snow. Fantastic, isn’t it?
started the ‘ecological movement’ within the inkjet industry.
Well, this is how winter used to be when I was a child, some
As a technological pioneer, we faced, on the one hand,
30 years ago. We had a wonderful time shuffling snow around,
the burden of heavy development costs, from which followers
even at only 300 metres altitude. Nowadays, it is getting harder
would benefit. On the other hand, we can now use our know-
to find some snow for skiing in the lower lying valleys of the Alps.
how to adapt the technology for more and more applications,
And if the forecasts of the climate experts are correct, we will
even those that could not be served by any kind of ink before.
only be able to tell our children what winter used to be, ‘once
Consequently, the Lumocolor Jet ink technology is nowadays
upon a time’. So there is no doubt that preventing an even more
used mostly in the area of industrial applications, such as
dramatic climate change is the most important issue to be solved
furniture decoration and similar.
by mankind.
With this innovation, we have established ourselves as one
‘We have to do something!’ This is what Staedtler Ink Jet’s
of the best known inkjet ink manufacturers worldwide and
engineers thought when they started the development of the first
as the specialists for water based inks in the field of industrial
water based inks for printing on to nearly all materials, back in
decoration.
2002. With over 170 years of company history, Staedtler is a truly long-term oriented company, so environmental protection has always been one of its top priorities. When the first ink prototype was presented to the public in 2004, the working title, Lumocolor Jet ink was chosen, due to its similar characteristics to Staedtler’s top-selling Lumocolor pen, which enables the user to write on almost every surface.
Lumocolor Jet ink technology for industrial decoration In fact, the Lumocolor Jet ink technology with its impact on the industry is the latest step in our major ecological developments, which include multi-use cartridges, or ink bags, that dramatically reduce the amount of waste. We will continue to take our responsibilities as a pioneer in environmental protection very seriously and we invite you to guess what we will introduce next!” Lumocolor pen – STAEDTLER’s top-seller
30
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
For further information visit: www.staedtler-inkjet.com
preventive measures have been introduced. A distillation unit was installed to recover solvent used for cleaning at the factory;
1614
Lux meters measure light within the building and when the light is sufficient for the operators, any internal lighting automatically switches off. The company is even investigating the generation of a virtually paperless office environment, by making all documents accessible, throughout the Company, from a central location stored on the main computer server. Any rejected rolls of coloured vinyls are donated to local schools and community groups for use in creating artwork or generating costumes for carnivals and theatrical productions. KPMF constantly reviews current and forthcoming changes to legislation to determine the measures and methods that allow it to retain the highest standards of compliance. As Rob Musto says: “As a company, we try always to be proactive not reactive. By constant assessment of all aspects, we ensure that our environmental management makes a major contribution to our quality control – and that’s good for the bottom line, as well as the planet.” For further information visit: www.kpmf.com Xaar takes an environmentally responsible approach to the manufacture of its printheads. “Having achieved ISO 14001 status, we take clean manufacturing very seriously,” says Mark Alexander, Director of Marketing, “and our focus is on effective waste recycling.” Metal, plastics, glass and paper are all recycled, while methods of removing PZT in scrap printheads are currently being investigated. The use of solvents is closely monitored and collected solvent is recycled as a high-octane fuel for producing
A versatile high resolu tion printe r for durable graphics
cement. From Xaar’s customers’ point of view, efficiency is built into Xaar inkjet printheads as a key element of their design and this, in turn, maximises their environmental credentials. The latest Xaar 1001, for example, cuts ink waste by using a very small amount to purge
t Durable indoor and outdoor prints on coated & uncoated substrates up to 1625 mm (63.97”) wide
and re-circulates ink instead of spitting when idle. “These are small elements but quickly make a difference in terms of cutting costs and waste,” explains Mark Alexander. “Energy saving too is a factor. Printheads are low energy/high efficiency components, which is becoming increasingly significant.”
t Impeccable print quality every time with Mutoh new i2 technology, even with the most difficult images
Ultimately, when compared to traditional process of off set/flexo printing, inkjet printing is a ‘greener’ process. Start up waste paper is minimal, there are no plates or blankets to be disposed of or cleaned and you can print exactly what you need ‘to order’. For further information visit: www.xaar.co.uk
Roland DG Benelux has taken further steps towards making its operations more ecologically responsible with the launch of a new cartridge recycling scheme. Some years ago, Roland DG
t Rapid return on investment thanks to versatile performance and attractive price t Easy to use and compact, with Eco-Solvent Ultra inks for problem-free printing in normal environments t Print speeds up to 18.25 m2 per hour
Corporation set out several basic ecological principles. One of these was the development of products comprising recyclable parts. An optimal result was achieved in this regard, with the launch of the SP range of large format printers, which feature parts that are 97 percent recyclable. In 2007, Roland DG Corporation introduced its own Environmental Label based on the standards stipulated by ISO 14021 for Type II environmental labelling. This certifies that the company helps to prevent global warming by using recylable resources, helping to increase environmental awareness and providing information on the environmental aspects of its products. All products released after the introduction of the EcoLabel are built in accordance with these internal standards.
www.mutoh.eu www.mutoh.de
GREEN CREDENTIALS Moreover, all recently released products (including the VP and AJ printer series) meet the criteria of Energy Star. This is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, which helps to save money
Marabu – the Green Ink Pioneer
and protect the environment through
To minimise its waste, all packaging materials are chosen for their recyclability and volume products are offered in 230 kg in-lined drums, and supplied with a corresponding drum dispensing unit. In addition, Smart Colour management systems enable ink customers to specify
energy efficient products and practices.
In recent years, environmental thinking
precise quantities of special shades,
The Energy Star ensures that the certified
and sustainability have become important
thus avoiding unusable excess. Marabu
Roland products are built to an optimal
aspects of all business activities. As a
also implemented its own stringent raw
performance/energy ratio.
leading ink manufacturer, Marabu well
material protocol in 1994, when it became
understands the responsibility it has for
the first screen and pad printing ink
Corporation made another step to promote
ensuring that neither human health nor
manufacturer to exclude heavy-metal
a more environmentally friendly future.
the environment is adversely affected by
pigments from its products. It is now
It centralised all of its production in one
its activities. Through investments in the
compliant with EuPIA’s exclusion list for
plant in Miyakoda, Japan, which enabled
latest technology and the responsible
printing inks and related products.
it to further reduce the ecological footprint
use of energy and raw materials, it seeks
of its products, as the time and resources
to minimise the environmental impact
accreditations and received many
involved in transporting parts between
associated with its plant.
awards for its green manufacturing
At the end of last year, Roland DG
external warehouses and the factory was
The company, which actively
The company has achieved many
processes and products. Following its
eliminated. Furthermore, Roland DG’s
participates in several working groups
initial ISO 9001 certification in early 1995,
D-Shop technology – an automated cell-
looking at sustainability, first appointed an
it included many green practices in its
based model, where a single employee
Environmental Manager in 1990, to work
quality assurance systems, achieving the
assembles a product from start to finish,
within its quality assurance department,
ISO 14001 certification for Environmental
enables the company to carefully control
but its green credentials stretch back
Management in 2003. In the same year, it
the production time of its products and
much further. Originally established to
gained SONY Green Partner certification, in
thus considerably reduce its energy
manufacture artists’ paints and inks,
respect of its inks for optical disc production,
consumption. As a result of these measures,
Marabu celebrates its 150th anniversary
a certification that has been renewed
Roland DG is aiming to reduce its carbon
this year, and, for some considerable
annually. In 2004 it was awarded the SGIA’s
dioxide emissions by a total of 40 tons per
time, it has operated strict environmental
Environmental Achievement Award.
year.
policies regarding waste disposal, energy
It originally introduced environmental
use, smart ink management systems,
awareness into its screen and pad ink
point for another important initiative,
packaging, recycling, and its core ink
with the creation of LIBRA, a solvent screen
the launch of a closed-circle recycling
formulation. During the manufacturing
ink family, which used a combination of
programme. Following the example of
process, all solvent emissions are filtered,
mild solvents, thus resulting in greater
Roland DG Corporation in Japan, Roland
cleaning solvents are recycled, with up to
benefits for both the environment and
DG Benelux will implement a cartridge
95 percent being reused, whilst all water is
machine operators. The LIBRA family of
recycling programme. The residue of
treated. Another major step forward took
products was first launched in 1985 with
recycled cartridges will be used as raw
place two years ago, when Marabu began
Libragloss LIG, a universal ink for every-
materials for new products.
using renewable power, thus reducing its
day screenprinting jobs. Its mild odour,
For further information visit:
annual C02 carbon emissions by 2,300 tons
combined with excellent performance
www.rolanddg.be
annually.
was enthusiastically received and in 1993,
FESPA Digital 2009 will be the starting
Libraspeed LIS, which was designed to suit the more automated screen machinery introduced during that period, followed it. The Libramatt LIM series, introduced in 1997, fulfilled the need for a matt ink series and in 1999, Libraprint LIP reflected the increasing need for speed, by offering faster drying times. Last year the LIBRA family expanded once again, with the launch of Librastar HF, for industrial print applications. Librastar HF is the first ink to meet the demands of the electronics sector and incorporates halogen-free raw materials, such as a PVC-free binder and unchlorinated pigments. It is suitable for use with both screen and pad printing and for one or two component applications. Marabu is fully sensible of the need to combine environmental benefits with high performance for demanding applications
32
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
T T
! ! ! H YEA
T T
Cold laminators Thermal laminators Cutting devices Display systems
Laminator made in France
KALA SAS - 35410 Nouvoitou-France / TĂŠl. : +33 (0)2 99 37 64 64 Web site : www.kala.fr / Information & contact : info@kala.fr
W E D E S I G N YO U R I N K PLASTIC WELDING
individualized ink solutions for industrial applications
Still stitching banners? Weld them!
UNIPLAN E: the best you can get.
Leister Process Technologies Switzerland www.leister.com
We know how.
GREEN CREDENTIALS and Librastar HF fulfils both of these aspects. It corresponds to the demands of RoHs; the Canadian Hazardous Products Act, DIN EN 71/3 and sets the benchmark for halogen-free ink design. Another new UV ink, Ultraglass UVGCC was recently showcased at the new Nutec Exhibition in Frankfurt and was also accepted by Material ConneXion®(materialconnexion. com), the leading global platform for material solutions and innovations. For further information visit: www.marabu-inks.com As one of the leading providers in the graphics sector, Neschen recognised the trend towards greater green awareness some time ago and consistently uses green production processes and materials. For example, its Pro Nature product, which is subjected to the most stringent internal norms and checks, is a result of this, but as Neschen’s Frank Seemann, Head of the Marketing and Communications Department at Neschen AG in Bückeburg, Germany points out: “ Pro Nature is not just a label for the customer – the advertising materials for this line are made exclusively of environmentally and resource-friendly materials. One of these is cotton – a natural fibre that is not just pleasantly warm and soft, but also kind to the skin. So it goes without saying that cotton is becoming
materials or plastics that are usually
dioxide (CO2) are emitted as reaction
more and more popular, particularly in
manufactured from oil can be produced
products. No other hazardous by-products
interior graphic design”.
sustainably. One example is the polyolefin
are generated and modern cleaning
group (PO). These include several well-
and filter systems also further minimise
Neschen also offers digital print media that
known materials, such as polypropylene
emissions. This is a key difference when
is made entirely of cornstarch. Printed with
(PP), which Neschen uses as a basic
PP is compared to the majority of other
eco inks – also made from cornstarch – this
material in banner production.
synthetics and plastics that have to be
Corn is another new trend. As a result,
combination provides environmentally
The material used to make PP is a by-
friendly advertising materials that are also
product of the petroleum industry, which
completely biodegradable.
is generated each day in the refineries
specially disposed of and are often very harmful to the environment. In addition to maintaining quality,
and is also used in the food industry.
Neschen is keen to save energy. As a result,
renewable natural materials, no finite
During combustion of the raw material or
it has fitted its own water filtering system
fossil fuels are required. But even synthetic
the PP film, only water (H2O) and carbon
that, after thorough purification, feeds the
Since both corn and cotton are
water from film production back into the public water supply. This revolutionary system decreases water consumption by several thousand cubic metres annually. Further, the company has implemented a highly efficient energy recovery system that has reduced the consumption of its manufacturing machinery to a minimum. Frank Seemann comments: “In the final analysis, Neschen is not just a product trendsetter in its markets. It has also been a green pioneer and its continuing commitment to top-level research and development will ensure it continues to break new ground in the future.” For further information visit: www.neschen.de
34
WORLD Green Issue Feb 2009
Mimaki’s latest UV innovation for sign makers
UV LED Curing Inkjet Printer with flexible UV ink for roll and rigid media Includes tables for printing onto rigid substrates up to 10mm
• No media deformation, UV LED
•
No drying times, the printed media is cured immediately
•
Most environmentally-friendly solution for large format printing
does not create high temperatures •
Flexible UV ink stretches, which is ideal for vehicle wrapping
For a reseller in your area contact: Mimaki Europe B.V.
+31 (0) 20 462 79 42
info@mimakieurope.com
www.mimakieurope.com/ujv-160/