9 } Exterior Options
Selecting Rigid Substrates
Plastic-based, printable materials for exterior applications. by Cassandra Balentine
15 } Optimum Performance Window Media for Latex/Resin Ink
The right material and top coat ensures success. by Melissa Donovan
22 } Spinning Out Wraps
Printers and RIPs Power the Process Increasing ef�iciencies in wrap shops. by Melissa Donovan
Graphics need to last for the intended amount of time they are in place. A lot of forethought goes into choosing the correct material—and ink set—for a job. Visits to the application’s intended space beforehand help set expectations for both the customer and print provider. This occurs whether the graphic is placed inside or outside, on the floor or a window. Understanding the limits of the space as well as how the application is intended to perform ahead of time is paramount to a successful installation.
A lot of forethought goes into choosing the correct material—and ink set—for a job.
Considering a material’s durability, the outdoors presents all sorts of challenges. When printing graphics using rigid board, a number of plastic and foamboard products do the trick. They offer a balance of strength, weight, and cost effectiveness. Read more in Exterior Options.
This issue also includes content on window media and vehicle wraps.
We dive into window media in Optimum Performance. The article looks at window media optimized for latex/resin ink. Special consideration needs to be made to ensure the ink remains on the media and achieves a quality appearance. Accompanying this piece is a chart that lists window media vendors for all ink types.
Today’s wide format printers and the software driving the process are well equipped to efficiently output graphics for vehicle wraps. Spinning Out Wraps discusses how key innovations are creating more effective printing processes and increased productivity in print shops.
Cheers,
Melissa Donovan, editor mdonovan@rockportpubs.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Thomas Tetreault ttetreault@rockportpubs.com
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Melissa Donovan mdonovan@rockportpubs.com
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Cassandra Balentine cbalentine@rockportpubs.com
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Amanda Doyon adoyon@rockportpubs.com 978-921-7850, Ext. 170
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Vanguard Digital Printing Systems announces the Harpeth Print-To-Cut Workflow Solution. The system is a culmination of innovation, partnership, and a commitment to current and future customers. It combines the VK3220T-HS UV LED flatbed printer from Vanguard with an inline transport system partnered with the Vanguard edition of the Sharpcut digital cutter from Colex.
The Vanguard VK3220T-HS ultra-high production UV LED flatbed offers a large bed size, up to three rows of industrial printheads for maximum productivity, an electromagnetic carriage drive system for speed, and precise drop placement delivering exceptionally high print quality. The Colex Sharpcut automates print workflow and reduces costs associated with the finishing process of large format graphics and products. This union reduces cost and media handling times, ensuring greater productivity. #172
Alpina Manufacturing, LLC debuts two new products in its portfolio. The first, Gas Pump Frames, are available in any size to mount on gas pump hoses, to the top or side of the pump, or underneath the hood. Frames are made from ABS UV protected plastic. The second introduction is the Ban45 pole banner mounting system, designed to pivot away from the force of the wind. #173
Mactac Graphics & Signage Solutions adds an easy-to-remove, printable scored liner to its Oodles products, expanding its wide format graphics pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) Scored Liner product line.
Mactac PSA Scored Liner products are the first of their kind to hit the market. Printvinyl Scored was introduced in 2023, and Roodle Scored (ROS528) is the newest addition.
The original Roodle (RO628) is a top selling Mactac product ideal for wall murals, signage, and decals. The new Roodle Scored has similar characteristics, but with a slightly modified product construction.
Roodle Scored has the same aggressive removable adhesive found in Roodle. The film is a 5.5mil matte white calendared PVC that is printable with UV, latex, and solvent print methods. The scored liner is a 78# white Kraft liner that is UV and latex printable. The back score is 2.5 inches apart and is designed to make installation easier and allow a seamless, hassle-free liner removal.
Roodle Scored has an outdoor durability of four years, with clean removability up to two years. It is ideal for indoor wall posters and murals on flat painted drywall or other smooth surfaces. It can also be used for decals, stickers, point of sale/point of purchase displays, and window graphics. #174
Avery Dennison Introduces Bright Escapes Supreme Wrapping Film Colors
Avery Dennison unveils its Fall 2024 Supreme Wrapping Film color collection, Bright Escapes.
The three-color collection is a gateway to unforgettable experiences Pool Party Pink, Tropical Vacation Green, and Popstar Concert Purple.
Avery Dennison Supreme Wrapping Film combines its extensive color change portfolio with outstanding durability, performance, custom versatility, and easy-to-apply convenience. It features Avery Dennison Easy Apply RS adhesive technology, which makes application fast and easy. The technology enables installers to reposition the film within the first few minutes of applying the material and easily press out any wrinkles and bubbles. The film and adhesive technology combination ensures excellent conformability around challenging curves and recesses. #170
Caldera releases PrimeCenter 3.3, the latest version of its prepress software for large format printing and cutting. This update brings new capabilities to users by introducing drivers for a wider range of cutting devices.
PrimeCenter 3.3 introduces two drivers that expand the software’s integration with a broader range of cutters, thanks to new partnerships with Secabo and Supply55 to provide the Secabo driver, and Euro-Systems to provide the OptiScout driver. This builds on the momentum of earlier integrations with Kongsberg, DXF, and HPGL drivers, as well as its longstanding support for Zünd Cut Center. By continuing to add drivers for more devices, PrimeCenter is strategically positioning itself as both RIP-agnostic and now cutter-agnostic, giving users maximum flexibility when managing diverse production setups. #171
1) Avery Dennison Supreme Wrapping Film color collections, like the new Bright Escapes films, are available in 60-inch rolls.
The new Mutoh XpertJet (XPJ) C641SR Pro 24-inch ecosolvent printer & cutter combo is perfect for a range of applications such as stickers, t-shirt transfers, vehicle decals, wall decals, posters, and banners. Print and cut a 24-inch roll of media and operate at speeds more than twice as fast as its closest competitors. The XPJ-C641SR Pro with Mutoh GREENGUARD Gold Certified MS31 CMYK Eco-Solvent Ink and Genuine VerteLith RIP Software, bundled with FlexiDESIGNER MUTOH Edition 21, is a $2,199 value. This print-and-cut combo truly is BIGGER, BETTER, and FASTER. Request your free sample today. For more information visit mutoh.com. INFO# 18
$4,295
Guardian Laminators are an affordable, easy-to-use solution for all of your finishing, laminating, and mounting needs. The Guardian’s intuitive design makes for quick and easy use, maintenance, and cleaning… saving you time on production. Solid, all-steel construction, cold or heat assist models, crowned silicone rollers, upper and lower idler bars, single-level nip adjustment, and easy load drop-in supply mandrels with a centering system provide high-quality performance. Visit guardianlaminators.com, call 734-668-0755, or email sales@supply55.com for more information. INFO# 19
Trim USA’s Perimeter Trim System gives you the ability to quickly, easily, and inexpensively install decorative edge protection around your mounted images. This system eliminates the need for hand cutters, rulers, and markers, with little training needed to operate. Giving your mounted images a polished finish that adds value and distinguishes your work. The high impact ABS plastic extrusions will not shrink or warp, which means that your work will last. Give Trim USA a call at 800-642-0959 or email sales@trimusa.com. INFO# 20
Unique to Trim USA, the BigStripe Custom Stripe Program gives you custom rotary slitting up to 30 inches wide, with capabilities to custom configure single- or multi-color, voided, overlaid, butted, or overlapped stripes. Use your choice of today’s most popular pressure-sensitive films by 3M and other leading manufacturers. Reflectives, opaques, and metallics are all eligible materials. These stripes are ideal for identifying fleets, railroad cars, boats, police and emergency vehicles, gas station awnings and canopies, decorative interior/exterior walls, and any other applications where big stripes are used. If you have a big job, Trim USA can cut it down to size! Visit trimusa.com INFO# 21
GF Debuts Sparkle Film
General Formulations (GF), introduces its GF 767 Sparkle Holographic film. The 6-mil/150 mic vinyl film features a clear permanent adhesive and colorful sparkle effect that changes with lights.
GF 767 Sparkle Holographic is a printable media designed to make any graphic stand out. Instantly enhance any product or surface the film is applied to with its rainbow iridescence and sparkling glitter texture that changes with light and perspective. The durable film makes for easy application and is coated with a permanent acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive. It works great for decals, point of purchase, retail displays, packaging, and holiday graphics. The 90# liner provides excellent dimensional stability for digital printing and delivers consistent printability. The film accepts a variety of solventbased, eco-solvent, latex, and UV-curable inks. #175
Enfocus Launches Works with Switch
Enfocus unveils its Works with Switch program, which simplifies integration and automation processes for printing companies. The Works with Switch program improves accessibility, cost effectiveness, and efficiency by addressing long-standing challenges that exist in software integration. Through close collaboration with leading vendors, Enfocus has developed pre-built integrations that reduce the time and cost required for implementation. These ready-made solutions enable businesses to easily overcome the significant time and cost barriers that exist when implementing API, JDF, or XML-based integrations. Current partners in the Works with Switch program include Alwan, Caldera, Canon, Fiery, FUJIFILM, HP, Onyx, Quite, Ultimate, and Woodwing, with more announced soon. #176
by Cassandra Balentine
Transit graphics are often purchased by big brands to promote a marketing message. However, the Cool Science project and the National Science Foundation (NSF) understand print’s potential.
Through a combination of science, art, and print, Cool Science utilizes the advertising space on city transit buses to engage K-12 students in learning about climate change while simultaneously educating the community on the topic in an easily digestible format—bus graphics.
Cool Science is a collaboration between the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Boston, UMass Lowell, the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, University of Kansas, and the Kansas City Art Institute. It is funded by the NSF.
An intergenerational program, Cool Science aims to engage students, mentors, teachers, parents, and the general public from New England and the Midwest with the science of extreme weather through a statewide K-12 student art competition. Students and mentors are encouraged to develop a visual work of art that address one of three challenge questions about extreme weather. Winning entries are printed and displayed on local, regional buses in KS, MA, and MO.
The idea was that if these spaces were so e ective at selling products and services to the bus riders and pedestrians, why not use the spaces to help people learn more about science.
— Shanna Thompson, program manager, Cool Science
The concept started in 2011 when UMass Lowell professors David Lustick and Jill Hendrickson Lohmeier hosted the Carbon Smarts Conference, an event designed to explore the use of out of home media (OOHM) to spread awareness on climate science.
1 2
“We conducted a seven year pilot in Lowell, MA. Then we received funding from the NSF allowing us to scale up the project to Worcester and Lawrence, MA as well as Topeka, KS; Kansas City, KS; and Kansas City, MO,” says Shanna Thompson, program manager, Cool Science.
The Cool Science pilot focused on advertising spaces inside and outside of buses as well as posters at main bus terminals at the Lowell Regional Transit Authority.
“The idea was that if these spaces were so effective at selling products and services to the bus riders and pedestrians, why not use the
spaces to help people learn more about science,” shares Thompson.
To participate in the competition, K-12 artwork, artist statement, and the Artwork Competition General Release Submission From are submitted electronically or by mail. Young artists create images that are 22x7 inches with a oneinch border all the way around the picture. The completed size of the poster is 24x9 inches.
Cool Science works with Jeff De Innocents from Stone Jetty Marketing & Design of North Reading, MA to put the pictures on templates that are scaled to bus-size images.
To place the artwork, Cool Science collaborates with the advertising firm ATA Outdoor for MA. In KS and MO it is Adsposure. “They donate the interior space for the placards and we purchase the exterior space for the queen-size posters. They print the placards and ‘skins’ for the outside,” notes Thompson.
Placards are about 11x22 inches. Outside images vary based on the bus but are approximately 28x88 or 30x108 inches.
Since its inception, Cool Science has accepted approximately 5,000 entries. “We receive a few hundred each year. Six winners
are selected in MA and six in KS,” says Thompson.
Placards are placed on the inside of the buses for three months, and two winners each month are honored on the outside of a bus in the Spring.
The power of print and OOHM goes beyond advertising. In this example, Cool Science leverages the creativity and curiosity of young students to educate larger communities with the help of wide format graphics. D
See page 14 for more info.
ertain rigid substrates are well suited for exterior signage applications. For this use case, factors like UV stability, moisture resistance, and recyclability are crucial for success.
Acrylic, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and high density polyethylene
by Cassandra Balentine
(HDPE) are all plastic-based substrates used for exterior applications.
“Overall, plastic materials offer the best balance between strength, weight, and cost for outdoor use. Moisture-repellant characteristics allow plastic to withstand a wider variety of weather conditions better than paper products. Its lightweight characteristics, especially
corrugated plastic, make it more cost efficient and easier to handle than metal or wood-based materials,” offers Karen M. Dicang, marketing director, Inteplast Group.
“Plastic substrates have been used for exterior signage for many, many Above) Plaskolite offers a series of rigid board solutions, including its VYCOM CELTEC Expanded PVC series.
years,” shares Scott Walton, national sales manager, sign and graphics, Plaskolite.
Walton explains features of popular plastic-based rigid materials.
“Acrylic naturally allows UV rays to pass through. Polycarbonate sheet requires a UV cap layer to protect the sheet and what has been
applied to second surface. PVC is an opaque printable, lightweight material that will not rot. HDPE has excellent resistance to the elements and graffiti, and some HDPE products contain multicolored layers that can be routed to create very low maintenance exterior signage that lasts the test of time.”
Acrylic, polycarbonate, PVC, and ABS can be cut, routed, and formed, have vinyl applied, digitally printed, or painted. HDPE can be cut, routed, and formed.“These attributes make these materials widely used when looking for rigid exterior weatherable substrates for a variety of signage applications,” adds Walton.
Rigid composite panels are also made with aluminum or vinyl faces over corrugated plastic or solid plastic, which provides strength, flatness, and durability for the outdoors, according to Garrett Thompson, VP sales and marketing, Laminators Incorporated. The company’s Alumalite and Omega-Bond products are most often used outdoors for exterior signage due to the plastic core.
Print providers should consider several factors when searching for a rigid material, especially if it is meant for outdoor use.
As with any project, the first consideration is for the design-intent of the signage. “Which materials will suit the design best, are there three-dimensional effects—cut
1) Inteplast offers corrugated fluted plastic sheets extruded from PP resin. Its fluted ribs support both surfaces, making IntePro lightweight, tough, and impact resistant. 2) POLYVANTIS manufactures a range of ACRYLITE acrylic sheet products ideal for signage.
lettering, multiple layers, etc.— that require a thicker substrate, what fabrication and fastening techniques will be used?” asks Chuck Kunze, director, product management and marketing, 3A Composites USA.
Additionally, site-specific issues and mounting techniques can result in the need to consider the material’s rigidity and warp resistance; thermal expansion/contraction; screw and nail holding the change in properties in extreme cold—i.e. brittleness; temperature restrictions for any adhesives used); and overall durability—surface hardness, scratch and dent resistance, continues Kunze.
Rigid boards for exterior signage must offer durability against the elements—temperature, humidity, and direct sunlight—as well as retain the product properties such as rigidity and flatness, adds Kunze.
Alin Wang, oversea sales, Eastsign, notes features like fire resistance, high insulation, portability, non-toxic, UV stable, moisture resistant, and corrosion preventive are essential for exterior applications.
Thompson says “moisture resistance and UV stability are key factors. Other factors to consider include the strength and stability,
and if the panel can meet wind load requirements.”
“The board needs to withstand a hot Summer day and a cold rainy night while ensuring that the customer’s content is well-presented on the sign,” adds Dicang.
Walton suggests asking where the sign is going. “Is the sign in a coastal region where it will be exposed to harsh elements, and will wind borne debris be an issue? If so, polycarbonate would be recommended as a see-through product. Impact modified acrylic could be used in these applications but would not have the impact resistance of a polycarbonate product.”
Consider the size of the cabinet or channel letter. “The rule of thumb is a channel letter that is 36 inches or less is good for acrylic. Anything greater than 36 inches should use polycarbonate or impact modified acrylic,” says Walton.
Is the sign clear, translucent, or opaque? “If the sign is going to be back- or edge-lit this would require a clear or translucent acrylic or polycarbonate substrate. If the sign is going to be opaque, this would require an ABS, PVC, or HDPE substrate,” adds Walton.
If the sign is to be printed, Walton says HDPE should not be selected
103 Laminators Incorporated laminatorsinc.com
104 Plaskolite plaskolite.com
105 POLYVANTIS Sanford LLC polyvantis.com
due to the inherent adhesion properties. “However, this makes it an excellent choice where graffiti resistance is needed.”
Yara Linares, marketing manager, POLYVANTIS Sanford LLC, points out that many acrylic products require the use of primers or adhesion promoters to prevent ink from flaking or chipping during fabrication. In contrast, ACRYLITE digital print acrylic is engineered specifically for digital wide format printing. This acrylic ensures ink adhesion without the need for additional treatments, streamlining production processes.
As with any material these days, recyclability is a consideration.
Polycarbonate, acrylic, ABS, PVC, and HDPE are all recyclable products. “Plaskolite offers postindustrial recycled polycarbonate and acrylic, PVC, and HDPE sheet products currently. We also have post-consumer recycled content available in HDPE,” explains Walton.
Dicang says polypropylene (PP) is one of the most widely and commonly used plastics. Its production is vast and continues to expand every year, in large part, due to the demand. PP is fully recyclable, and promotes an element of sustainability throughout its customer base and in marketing materials. “Our materials’ durability and recyclability are complementary characteristics for customers who value quality and a circular economy.”
A product’s ability to be recycled is a consideration that has been
growing in importance, whether it’s used for indoor or outdoor applications. “But especially in short-term outdoor applications, it becomes a balance of finding a product that can stand up to the elements of being outside but can also be recycled at end of use in order to avoid sending material to landfills after a short application life,” comments Kunze.
3A Composites’ SMART-X is a 100 percent polystyrene board that excels in exterior signage applications and is 100 percent recyclable in the existing commercial polystyrene foam recycling process, shares Kunze.
“Sometimes the best solution from an environmental impact perspective is to use the product that will have the longest life, such as DIBOND ACM,” adds Kunze.
A lot depends on how long a sign needs to be in place.
“Longevity of the sign can depend on exposure to the elements, type of substrate used, is the graphic properly protected from UV, and how long do you need it to last,” shares Walton.
For long-term signage, Walton says UV protected plastic substrates like acrylic, polycarbonate, ABS, PVC, and HDPE can all be used. “Permanent signage—backlit or opaque— has a one to 20 year lifespan.”
“It is important to look for quality panels that offer a ten year warranty to ensure the panel and graphics don’t fade before the life of the sign,” explains Thompson.
For short-term graphics, like advertising graphics for 30 day plus promotions or announcements, Walton suggests PVC as an excellent option, even for outdoor use.
“If not protected, consider using a UV protected plastic sheet like acrylic or polycarbonate,” notes Walton.
Corrugated plastic material made of PP is ideal for short-term purposes with its lightweight and cost-efficient characteristics. “Our material is easy to handle, transport, and clean for occasions like short-term events and promotions. Notably, our material is ideal for political signs during election seasons,” says Dicang.
Depending on a sign’s requirements, rigid materials are well suited for certain outdoor signage. As always, it is essential to consider long- versus shortterm use, weather and climate considerations, and recyclability requirements when choosing an option. D 6
ith latex- or resinbased printers continuing to offer advantages in terms of durability and fast dry times, increased material compatibility becomes the norm. In terms of media
by Melissa Donovan
designed for window graphics, both perforated and unperforated are available and optimized for latex/ resin ink.
Latex or resin ink is a unique composition of chemicals and additives.
As such, it presents challenges when printing to various media types.
Aarona Tesch, product marketing manager, GBC and SEAL, ACCO
Above) Drytac Polar Blockout is an opaque printable blockout film ideal for two-sided window graphics and other blockout layer needs.
Brands, explains, latex or resin inks are waterbased consumables and require a substrate with specific surface coatings to properly bond to the media. Not all traditional window films are coated to handle this.
For example, “clear film types were not inherently compatible with latex ink technology
without the addition of a custom top coating,” several years ago, explains John Coyne, sales manager, Lintec of America, Inc.
In addition to lack of a proper coating, there are drying and curing challenges to be aware of. “Latex/ resin ink tends to form a thicker layer on the media compared to solvent-based inks, for example. Unperforated films, in particular, may experience uneven curing or curing that results in poor print quality,” says Tesch.
“Some challenges may result from the high heat necessary to properly bond and cure latex/resin inks to the substrate. This can cause material to shrink or curl. These challenges can be addressed by establishing ICC print profiles for specific equipment, ink sets, and RIPs, in addition to printing only on those materials that are designed for print compatibility with latex/resin,” recommends Jason Maricle, product manager WindowMark perforated window film, General Formulations.
Not only must the proper coating allow the ink to bond correctly with the media, as well as dry and cure properly, how it reacts to installation needs to be considered. At Lintec, “it required several years of research
and development to perfect a top coating that was stable and capable of accepting latex ink. This top coating would also require a level of durability that could protect the latex ink from the wet apply window film installation process,” shares Coyne.
Other issues include durability, optical clarity, and environmental resistance, adds Tesch.
However, “latex/resin technology has moved forward by leaps and bounds,” attests Dennis Leblanc, senior business development manager, North America, Drytac.
To meet challenges head on, more window media vendors create window films specially designed/coated for latex and/ or resin ink compatibility.
“Making these materials print well with latex/resin ink means some may require specialized film formulations, treatments, or top coatings to enhance their durability and printability,” states Maricle.
Continental Grafix USA, Inc.’s iTac White is an opaque white polyester (PET) film backed with a proprietary adhesive designed for interior and exterior applications on ultrasmooth surfaces. The low-tack adhesive allows iTac White to be installed wet or dry and is permanently removable without leaving residue behind. iTac White is universally compatible with solvent, eco-solvent, UV, and latex ink.
Drytac carries a large array of window graphic solutions, all with latex/resin compatibility.
These include polypropylene (PP) and PET with hybrid, permanently peel-able and permanent adhesive solutions as well as blockout media to be paired with clear materials or synthetic blockout media paired with window mounting adhesives for push/pull graphics.
The entire portfolio of window graphic films at General Formulations—whether perforated or solid film, white or clear, and even the total blockout materials—are all compatible with latex/resin inks.
Lintec invested a substantial amount of time and money in a latex ink compatible, optically clear window film development process. In keeping with the company’s sustainable theme, non-vinyl films were preferred, which Coyne admits proved more difficult than expected. In addition to these requirements the film needed to have true optical clarity, for which Lintec is known. The company’s E-3000ZC latex film meets and exceeds all of these expectations.
Nekoosa’s PVC-Free Sign-Ad Clear is a 4-mil, gloss, clear film designed with a removable window adhesive and 90# layflat release liner. It features an enhanced top coat for latex and UV wide format printing with outdoor durability up to four years. The film removes without leaving adhesive residue behind.
Newlife Magnetics, LLC’s Cling King print media features a highquality PET print surface with a smooth, silicone coating on the back that allows it to stick to any smooth non-porous surface just like a suction cup. It is repositionable and residue free, even
after long-term installations. Available in white and clear versions, the clear version is optically clear and ideal for window graphics where you don’t want to see anything but your printed graphic. It is printable with solvent, UV, and latex ink.
SEAL UltraClear PET, from ACCO Brands, is a 4.9-mil optically clear PET film that can be used for many different graphic and design applications. It has a unique ultra clear silicone adhesive that is both repositionable and removable. This product is great for architectural design, including glass office partitions, point of purchase and retail signage, and window graphics. It is designed for use with solvent, eco-solvent, latex, and UV-curable inks.
Breaking down options, popular types of media used for window graphics include PP, vinyl or PVC, and PET. All of which— when properly manufactured or treated with the correct coating—can work well with latex/ resin ink.
“PP, PVC, and PET are among the best-suited media types for latex and resin inks, with PET offering the highest quality and durability, especially for premium applications,” says Tesch.
According to Leblanc, “all of these materials are suited for window graphics and all have their own pros and cons.”
PP is popular for multiple reasons. Tesch says this is because of its excellent printability, dimensional stability, and cost effectiveness. “It features a smooth surface that works well with water-based inks, providing vibrant colors and sharp details. Additionally, it is lightweight and resistant to moisture, making it suitable for indoor and shortterm outdoor applications.”
Each material has advantages and disadvantages. “PP is a good dimensionally stable material for shorter term graphics that may at some point fit into recycling streams, however don’t have the ability to conform to irregular surfaces, which is where possibly a vinyl would perform better,” admits Leblanc.
PP is considered “excellent” for unperforated window films, says Tesch. It is not commonly used for perforated “due to structural and print quality considerations.”
Vinyl, when coated or specialty treated, works well with latex and resin inks.
Although, Maricle believes “vinyl is best suited for latex/resin inks and doesn’t require any additional surface treatment/top coating for printability.”
It’s used for perforated window media options, notes Tesch.
PET
PET is used quite frequently. “PET has the best clarity in my opinion across all medias and very good durability however, conformability may be an issue,” states Leblanc.
To achieve conformability, “PET media alternatives typically require a surface treatment or top coat to ensure proper ink adhesion to the surface of the film,” says Maricle.
Excellent dimensional stability, durability, and clarity are three reasons why users prefer PET for latex and resin ink, according Tesch. Additional benefits involve resistance to moisture, chemicals, and UV light.
Tesch also considers PET-based media “excellent” for unperforated window films.
It can be challenging to print with latex/resin ink to traditional window media—whether perforated or unperforated. However, media options available today—PET, PP, or PVC—are designed to perform optimally with this ink set. Many of these products are top coated with a special formulation to ensure success. Each vendor offers its own twist. D
by Significans Automation
Michael Enright has been owner of Coastal SpeedPro of Portsmouth, NH, the top-selling SpeedPro franchise in North America, for over ten years. His shop has completed thousands of large and small projects from basic retail signage to stunning, nationwide multiple hundreds of site environmental graphic refreshes for retailers.
Today, Enright oversees the most automated of SpeedPro’s 130+ independently owned and operated wide format franchises. But it wasn’t always that way.
Enright’s journey to customized in-shop automation and full integration of all production processes is an everevolving work in progress as the business and production requirements evolve.
All SpeedPro locations use CoreBridge, a web-based business management platform. “However, as my business grew, we were experiencing major production issues because we had to use the technology in a variety of different ways. We were also introduced to Esko’s Automation Engine (AE). But soon discovered, this technology needed meaningful customization and integration with our current work�low systems to work best in our unique production environment. Plus, CoreBridge had a limited set of APIs, making integration with Esko’s AE and other work�low systems very dif�icult. We �inally got our initial Esko AE up and running, but it couldn’t do many things we wanted, such as streamline and improve production quality. We found ourselves doing work manually again, cutting and pasting between two digital systems. This introduced risks, errors, rising costs, missed deadlines, and customer satisfaction issues,” explains Enright.
Enright contacted work�low automation and integration specialist Signi�icans Automation. “Michael’s work�low software was always being modi�ied and re-con�igured but had never been utilized to its fullest extent,” explains Marc Raad, president, Signi�icans. “Working as a team,
we managed to reduce 73 separate, time-consuming work�lows into three easy-to-use ‘tools.’ This eventually transformed his entire business.”
“We made a lot of adjustments, but through it all, Signi�icans solved our work�low problems in real time. We were able to �ind ef�iciencies that would give us, for example, 80 percent of the bang for 20 percent of our buck. We continue to partner with Signi�icans, and as our business changes, so too are the integrations the Signi�icans team creates for us. We’ve added several key enhancements and have become much more ef�icient. Overall, we’ve now achieved a 10-to-1 reduction of touchpoints, yielding �lawless, on-time, ultra-ef�icient production,” says Enright.
Enright adds that the biggest single accomplishment of this collaboration was that Signi�icans discovered a way to seamlessly transfer data from CoreBridge into Esko’s AE. He can now process everything needed for fully automated, uninterrupted, error-free press runs with near zero rework. “Our print work�lows are now simpli�ied, powerful, and much more customized,” notes Enright.
For more information, visit signi�icans.com or call 877463-4465. You’ll be directed not to a salesperson or a third party, but to one of the company’s regional work�low automation and integration experts who has years of production-�loor experience. D
by Melissa Donovan
ide format printers are well equipped to handle graphics that ultimately become vehicle wraps or decals. More importantly, the newest models offer supreme levels of productivity—something no vehicle graphics shop can be without—thanks in part to efficient ink sets and fast drying techniques. In addition to the
physical aspect of the printer, workflow solutions powering these devices are also helpful in reaching peak productivity.
Print service providers (PSPs) look for wide format printers that increase efficiencies and provide high-quality output. This is achieved in a number of ways.
“Several key innovations drive digital printing for the vehicle graphics market, including increased print speeds, enhanced
Above) Mutoh centrally frames the vehicle graphics market when it comes to its ecosolvent line of printers. From features like piezoelectric printheads for consistent color from panel to panel, FeedMaster automatic alignments to ensure long panels are accurate to size, and multiple take-up unit options to collect the printed material.
output quality with larger color gamut, and automation in both the printer and accompanying hardware. Together, these innovations drive a more effective printing process and increased productivity in print shops,” says David Lopez, product manager, professional imaging, Epson America, Inc.
When it comes to improvements from their predecessors, the wide format printers used for vehicle graphics output today are more sophisticated. Mike Horsten, senior press and press release manager, Agfa, credits this to ink type.
“The production of vehicle graphics has changed in the last few years, it came from solvent and it has evolved to UV curing and resin-based printing. UV inks have a lot of benefits due to the longer lasting outdoor lifetime of the inks on the vinyls. This allows for long-lasting imaging on the wraps. This resistance to sunlight is maybe the main reason why UV inks are used in this market more,” notes Horsten.
Timothy Mitchell, senior manager, customer experience, Mimaki USA, Inc., argues that eco-solvent printers are still the dominant stable of workhorses—for full vehicle wraps especially. “In addition to ink formulations designed—and often guaranteed— for outdoor durability, ecosolvent inks offer the flexibility
required to form vinyl around intricate surfaces. UV LED printers can also be used—some with outdoor durability guarantees as well, though mainly for decals or
vehicle markings on less demanding surfaces.”
HP Inc.’s latest iteration of inks found in its latex—resin based—
printers produce more vibrant and saturated colors than earlier ink sets, shares Joe Goicoechea, large format category manager, HP. “The latex inks are also cured
within the printer delivering instant dry prints without degassing or waiting for lamination.”
Immediate workability is a challenge for print providers in the wrap business, admits Mitchell. “Waiting for a print to fully dry impacts total job time. This can be an issue with eco-solvent inks. Some printers include intelligent heating systems that heat the media to a proper temperature to achieve quick drying and
accurate fixation, ensuring the print is ready for installation without long dry time. UV inks do not require dry time after printing.”
Newer ink sets do allow for immediate lamination. “This is vital because the most expensive aspect of a wrap is the installation. Delays caused by waiting for replacement panels to be laminated can lead to increased costs, reduced efficiency, and lower customer satisfaction. Immediate lamination capabilities help avoid these issues,” admits Patrick Donigain, senior manager, marketing, Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Donigain has seen installers use thicker calendered vinyl in combination with more durable inks, which allows them to skip the lamination step. “This approach enables the printing of spot gloss or textured effects directly onto the vinyl, setting their offerings apart from the competition and significantly enhancing the visual impact of their customers’ graphics.”
A printer should yield durable output. “Unique to vehicle and outdoor graphics, output must be weather and scratch resistant as the final output is vulnerable to
extreme conditions, as well as general wear and tear of parking lots and highway debris,” shares Lopez.
Another feature to consider is the printer’s capability to color match. “Color consistency is crucial, particularly for fleet graphics. Maintaining uniform corporate colors from panel to panel, or across an entire fleet, has historically been a challenge. Modern technologies now feature advanced inks that reduce color variation due to dot gain or ink coalescence. Additionally, durable printheads that resist nozzle fatigue ensure consistent color across all vehicles in a fleet,” explains Donigain.
“Some of the challenges when printing vehicle graphics is making sure the colors are consistent across the fleet of vehicles and tiles that you need to print. You don’t want mismatched colors on a project. CalderaRIP’s color management engine makes sure the colors match across all the prints so the full project looks great,” says Sebastien Hanssens, VP marketing, Caldera.
Lopez says color accuracy is expected no matter if the wrap is for advertising or creative purposes. “The final output must accurately represent the brand, product, or artist’s vision. Printers must be capable of delivering exact colors, regardless of the gamut, to ensure both brand integrity and customer satisfaction,” explains Lopez.
“Productivity matters, but quality will always come first. An extended
color gamut using red and orange ink sets and a photographic gray balance using light black offers a huge advantage in this business. Add proven outdoor durability to an extended color gamut paired with a variable drop printhead and you have the perfect recipe for success,” agrees Mitchell.
There is inherent automation built in to today’s printers, the physical printer itself as well as the RIP software that runs the printer offers efficiencies for vehicle graphics/print shops and addresses bottlenecks in production.
“Automation enables the production staff to focus on tasks that require human interaction while assuring the digital components are productive,” explains Mitchell.
Horsten believes the biggest bottleneck is the design phase of the graphics for the vehicle.
“Every car, truck, boat, or airplane is different and has different application problems. PSPs need to juggle application approvals and certifications to be able to comply with regulations and laws. This can be a nightmare. If you want to wrap an airplane there are many more rules and guidelines to follow than wrapping a car. Wrapping a boat needs attention as it’s in contact with fast moving water all the time, this means learning a different way of how to apply the media on the boat. Remember the last thing you want is the wrap to blow off,” continues Horsten.
It is a challenge to manage all of the design files. Caldera designed
PrimeCenter to simplify the preparation of print-and-cut files. “Nowhere is that more pertinent than when it comes to preparing multi-piece graphics for motorcycles, ATVs, and quad bikes. Located upstream of your RIP, PrimeCenter checks, corrects, sorts, groups, and prepares files for production in a fraction of the usual time, saving operator time, reducing media wastage, and banishing human error through automation,” attests Hanssens.
Another consideration, job preparation. Hanssens says efficient job preparation is constantly requested by customers. “Typically, these types of projects are laid out as a single artboard with lots of different pieces, such as logos and wording. Many of the designs have more than ten elements and some can have up to 30 or 40, and when I see them as artwork layouts, they’re not nested very well at all. So, at the prepress stage, the challenge is to make sure that all the elements are nested as efficiently as possible to reduce media waste.”
In addition to nesting, RIP software is helpful for creating cut lines around the graphics, to create more efficient finishing at the end of the process. “Creating vehicle graphics requires cutting prints into non-standard sizes to fit car doors, windows, hoods, and other parts. Since every vehicle wrap must be customized based on the car’s make, model, and year, this process can be time consuming for print shops. Fortunately, modern RIP software includes tools for creating cut lines compatible with cutters to
streamline the process, saving valuable time and effort,” suggests Lopez.
“The ideal vehicle wrap workflow would apply all of the necessary cut lines and marks automatically and send finished files over to the RIP,” agrees Mitchell.
Having the infrastructure in place to print files successfully overnight is important in a print shop. “There is the need to stack multiple jobs to print consecutively, and in most cases print overnight to save time. Mutoh introduced a feature in VerteLith called MPS or Mutoh Print Server, which allows for the processing of large print files for seamless roll-to-roll printing,” shares Tony Simmering, product manager, Mutoh America, Inc.
Also surprisingly, something that harkens back to the RIP software, is remedying the problem of drying graphics so they are ready for immediate lamination. “One of the well-known drawbacks to eco-solvent printing is the need to outgas the vinyl material before lamination to ensure there is no silvering or delamination. We can combat this in the RIP by creating ultra-efficient ICC profiles through VerteLith that further reduce outgas time by laying down just the right amount of density to achieve the desired colors,” explains Simmering.
When it comes to the physical printer, automated tools that offer efficient media handling as well as printer maintenance are helpful.
PSPs look for fewer touch points in their production process. “The ability to fill a job queue, load a full roll of vinyl, hit ‘go’, and walk away absolutely helps a PSP achieve efficiency and cost savings. They can only do this, however, through thoughtful printer design and innovation,” admits Mitchell.
HP’s newest latex printers, “offer instant reprint capabilities directly from the front panel of the printer. This streamlines and simplifies workflow in cases where a panel needs to be quickly reprinted, laminated, and installed in a matter of minutes, as opposed to hours or even days with some competitive technologies,” says Goicoechea.
Monitoring ink before it needs to be replaced is another option. “If a printer is using only smaller ink cartridges, one or more will likely run dry before that roll of
vinyl is finished. Bulk ink systems with two-liter bottles or packs are available, and uninterrupted ink supply systems offer built-in redundancy that automatically switches from an emptied ink container to the next full container. These systems reduce the instances the operator needs to check on the print process, freeing them to be productive elsewhere,” explains Mitchell.
Scheduled maintenance is helpful. “Automatic printer maintenance is essential in today’s fast-paced atmosphere. Print shop managers need printers that handle maintenance tasks automatically—at a scheduled time. This approach ensures maintenance occurs on a routine basis and at optimal times, preventing disruptions during active print runs and aiding in maintaining the consistent, highquality output that customers expect,” shares Lopez.
“The most common request is for automated quality control, enabling lights-out operations. For fleet graphics, where print runs can be extensive, paying an operator to monitor the printer or reprint costly cast vinyl can be the difference between profitability and loss. Automation in quality control helps maintain efficiency and cost effectiveness,” expresses Donigain.
Today’s wide format printers feature a host of functions that cater to vehicle graphics production. Visit digitaloutput.net/webinars to view a recent webinar on this same topic. D
