ebeam, Uteco and INX launch Gaia

Gaia, introduced to the market at Labelexpo Europe 2017, has been created through combining Uteco’s expertise in web handling, INX Digital’s expertise in the customization and integration of digital technologies and print engines, and an in-line ebeam Technologies’ ebeam Compact 80/400 curing unit.

The 4-color system uses recently developed photoinitiator-free inkjet EB-curable inks from INX Digital. It has a resolution up to 720 x 360 DPI and a throughput speed of up to 25m/minute. Gaia is driven by the JetINX printhead drive and ink recirculation system from INX.

ebeam Technologies explained that in-line EB curing has a number of commercial production benefits for package printing, including a significantly lower energy requirement compared to thermal curing and a faster time to market thanks to instant curing, allowing for the elimination of a lengthy drying stage and storage before cutting. EB curing also produces virtually no VOCs and eliminates the need for solvents, with a higher degree of cure, durability, a higher gloss finish and the ability to cure all colors.

Stefano Rogora, sales and marketing manager at INX Digital, commented: ‘In Uteco and ebeam Technologies, we have found partners that embody our desire to bring to market an innovative print customization solution, without any compromise in quality. Packaging converters are going to be amazed at the output quality from Gaia. Durable, vibrant color with the possibility of each package or label being a one-off.’

Elsa Callini, business development manager at ebeam Technologies, said: ‘We believe true technological innovation can only be achieved through collaboration, and Gaia is the latest proof point of this. In helping bring this new digital narrow web solution to market, we believe the sky is the limit for package designers and brand owners when it comes to the exciting and differentiating world of personalization and variable printing.’

Peter Lockley, INX Europe president, added: ‘Gaia opens the door for packaging converters and label printers with custom print opportunities. The output quality and brilliant color is visually stunning.’

Gaia is to be sold through the Uteco Converting sales channel, while INX Digital EB-curable inkjet inks will be available from September.

Read L&L's comprehensive Labelexpo Europe 2017 preview in issue 4, and here