Leading with Alternatives

UV market

Syracuse Label is focusing on the right area. A recent RadTech study, “Status of UV & EB in North America 2006,” states that UV & EB penetration into the graphic arts ink market spans the range of print methods, reaching 21,650 metric tons in 2005, up at a greater than 7 percent growth rate per year. Although offset inks represent the largest segment, the study states that the market for UV & EB flexo inks has experienced continual rapid growth at double-digit rates during the last few years. That trend is expected to continue for the near future. The study, based on responses from 90 UV & EB industry representatives, cites one estimate that UV & EB’s penetration into the flexo market is about 25 percent, with most presses purchased today having at least one UV & EB unit. While UV & EB materials offer superior environmental profiles, survey respondents indicated that the actual decision for going with the technology is typically justified on more traditional investment criteria, according to the study. Operational and product quality benefits, and efficiency are a few factors that continue to drive UV & EB growth.