Enhancing creative inkjet embellishments

with the Xaar Versatex Printbar

18 Oct 2024

At Xaar, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of digital inkjet printing, and our latest development for the Versatex Printbar is a prime example of this. Our new High Creativity mode is empowering label and packaging producers, by enabling unmatched creative freedom in label design and print – and all in a single pass.

Developed in response to customer feedback and the growing industry demand for more dynamic and creative inkjet embellishment in premium labelling and packaging, our High Creativity mode is enabled by software and means users can now achieve up to three distinct varnish effects – high build, textured and spot varnishes – with just one fluid, in one pass, eliminating the need for costly multiple prints.

This innovation is made possible by using the two banks of Nitrox printheads, which can jet high-viscosity fluids of up to 1000cP (100cP at jetting temperature), thanks to our Ultra High Viscosity and High Laydown Technology.

Previously, the Versatex Printbar offered three distinct printing modes, but they had to be selected independently, meaning it was not possible to jet varying varnish levels concurrently in one pass. With the introduction of our new High Creativity mode, users can now achieve a laydown of 15 to 100µm in a single pass. This advancement makes it easier than ever to incorporate high-build gloss, matte textures, and other intricate tactile effects that are increasingly in demand for premium packaging in industries such as wine and spirits, cosmetics, perfumes, and other luxury goods.

Alongside delivering brand differentiation, brand protection and anti-counterfeiting efforts are strengthened by printing intricate designs that are significantly more difficult and expensive to replicate. In addition, as a digital process, variations of the same design are easily made across batches of labels with different embellishments, deterring counterfeiters.

Designers now have access to the impact of textured, high-build embellishments, vibrant colours or intricate varnishes and foils in a single pass. The versatility of the Versatex Printbar not only enhances visual appeal for shelf impact, but also helps label converters boost their profit margins and deliver a competitive edge when pitching to brand owners.

Reducing environmental impact is a key part of our Sustainability Roadmap and shapes our product development at Xaar. In line with this, the Versatex offers faster setup and better utilisation compared to traditional screen printing, making it ideal for short-run jobs. By applying three varnish effects at once using the High Creativity mode, more creativity is achieved in a single pass, maximising productivity whilst cutting energy usage and costs.

Our TF Technology ink recirculation and SureFlow features also maximise operational print time, ensuring that production runs smoothly and efficiently. The Versatex Printbar can also be incorporated anywhere along existing web-based systems, reducing development time and costs while ensuring consistent, reliable performance.

With our High Creativity mode, we are helping users unlock new levels of creativity in label and packaging design through innovative digital print and we look forward to seeing how our customers will leverage the Versatex to produce amazing, high impact, premium embellishments.