Agfa To Unveil Advanced Automation Solutions at PRINTING United Expo

At PRINTING United Expo 2024 in Las Vegas, Agfa will highlight its latest automation solutions for inkjet print production. The new MAX Bots for the Tauro H3300 and the autoloader for the Onset Grizzly X3 HS are designed to boost efficiency, reduce labor costs, and ensure precision in high-volume printing of a variety of products including packaging and display. Additionally, several of Agfa’s latest inkjet printing solutions will make their North American debut, featuring advancements in speed, quality, and versatility.

“At Agfa, we’re dedicated to offering a portfolio of powerful, innovative solutions that meet every printing need,” says Deborah Hutcheson, Agfa’s Director of Strategic Business Development for Digital Print North America. “The MAX Bots and Grizzly Autoloader exemplify how automation can transform high-volume production, reducing costs and boosting efficiency. We look forward to discussing these advancements at Printing United and demonstrating how print service providers can make our inkjet printing beasts work for them.”

Agfa’s Printing United booth will focus on the following inkjet printing solutions:

---

 

 

Jeti Tauro H3300 UHS with MAX Bots – World Debut

Already known for its high-speed output of up to 9,741 ft²/h, the Tauro H3300 UHS now integrates robotic automation to further increase productivity. The MAX Bots handle substrate loading and/or unloading with up to 150 cycles per hour, enhancing productivity and reducing labor costs. For maximum flexibility in handling both rigid and roll substrates, the dual-robot setup can be paired with the MAX Flex RTR module. This combination is perfect for print service providers managing diverse substrates and applications, including packaging, because it optimizes throughput for superior ROI. The back-to-front camera on the MAX Flex RTR guarantees accurate double-sided printing.

The Tauro H3300 UHS will be shown in a new 7-color configuration (CMYKLmLcLk), significantly enhancing the smoothness of light pastel colors and improving gradient transitions. This setup delivers superior print quality, particularly for industries demanding ultra-high quality, such as cosmetics, while also achieving additional ink savings through Agfa’s Thin Ink Technology.

The 7-color configuration, the MAX Bots and the MAX Flex RTR have all been recognized with Pinnacle Awards, highlighting their innovative power.

Onset X3 HS with New Autoloader – World Debut

Agfa will show the new Autoloader for the Onset Grizzly X3 HS flatbed inkjet printer. Designed for high-volume graphics and packaging jobs, this advanced autoloader with a six-second cycle time keeps pace with the Grizzly top speed of 15,000 ft²/h (281 beds/h). It can handle up to four sheets simultaneously, with substrate thicknesses ranging from 0.1 to 50 mm. When paired with an unloading robot, this setup enables 24/7 operation, maximizing production efficiency and reducing labor costs.

The Grizzly runs on Agfa’s Onset 560 CMYK+W ink set, offering explosive color strength and an extended gamut that captures even challenging shades such as Pantone 485C. This UV ink set enhances print quality with improved dot gain control, sharper edges, and more detailed image rendering. The ink’s superior quality is matched by its cost efficiency, with Agfa’s Thin Ink Layer technology reducing ink consumption by up to 22%, and a fast white ink mode increasing productivity by 40% compared to non-Agfa inks.

The new Grizzly Autoloader and the Onset 560 inks have both received Pinnacle Awards.

In addition to the new automation solutions, the following inkjet printers will be put in the spotlight.

Jeti Condor RTR5200 – North American Debut

The Jeti Condor RTR5200 is a roll-to-roll inkjet printer with an impressive 205-inch wingspan, setting new standards for speed (up to 7,233 ft²/h) and image quality. It handles a variety of flexible substrates, supporting up to three rolls simultaneously. With field-upgradable light colors, white, and clear options, the Condor offers extensive design flexibility and multiple media handling solutions. It also features a range of automation options that streamline the entire printing and finishing process, enhancing efficiency.

Jeti Bronco H3300 – North American Debut

The Jeti Bronco H3300 is a powerful addition to Agfa’s high-end UV LED inkjet printers. With a width of 130 inches, this hybrid printer handles a variety of sign and display jobs in six colors plus white, with optional primer. Its independent dual-roll printing capability and continuous board feeding system make it a productive workhorse. Initially offered with two rows of print heads, the Bronco can be field-upgraded to a four-row version, making it a future-proof investment that enhances productivity and ROI.

Anapurna Ciervo H3200i LED

The Anapurna Ciervo H3200i LED is being commercially released at the expo. This 6-color + white hybrid printer, with a width of 126 inches, represents the evolution of the Anapurna family, which has been a staple in the industry for more than 20 years. The Ciervo is designed for versatility, tackling a wide range of print jobs with enhanced print quality and productivity – boasting a 70% increase in speed in Production Mode compared to its predecessor. Its continuous board feeding capability allows efficient printing on up to four boards simultaneously, making it ideal for printing companies looking for agility and performance.

Versatile and exceptional

Powerful software offering

All printers at the booth are driven by the latest version of Agfa’s Asanti workflow software, an all-in-one print production hub that automates the entire process, saving time and money. The software’s browser-based Production Dashboard provides insights into production metrics and interfaces with MIS/ERP systems for optimized operations. Complementary tools like StoreFront (web-to-print) and PrintTune (print standardization and monitoring) will also be demonstrated.

Experience Beastly Prints

Visitors to the Agfa booth can explore an inspiring range of inkjet print samples, as the printers will be running a variety of rigid and roll substrates, including corrugated, fabric and block-out banner materials. These samples highlight the versatility and exceptional print quality of Agfa’s printers.

Industrial Inkjet Expertise

Agfa’s industrial inkjet experts will also be present at the booth to discuss Agfa’s industrial printing solutions, including the SpeedSet Orca 1060 for the packaging market, the InterioJet for laminate décor paper printing, the Alussa for leather decoration, as well as Agfa’s UV- and water-based inks for dedicated industrial applications.

To experience Agfa’s powerful inkjet solutions in action at Printing United Expo 2024, visit booth #C1761 from September 10-12 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SOURCE: Agfa

The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Packaging Impressions. The views expressed within do not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of the staff of Packaging Impressions.