Data Points: Hybrid Digital Label Presses

Automation and in-line conversion

Up to now, most digital press owners have gotten by with minimal in-line conversion capability. What usually happens is that conversion for digitally printed labels (always die-cutting) is done on existing, non-digital devices because most converters have spare conversion capacity. So far, using that capacity for digitally printed labels has not been an economic disadvantage because of the higher margins associated with digitally printed labels. However, as the digital market grows, a greater range of in-line conversion techniques, such as laser diecutting, laminating and coating, will be required for digitally printed labels, requiring much greater automation in-line converting capability. Some finishing equipment vendors are already filling this gap and will continue to do so.