Increasing demand for shorter run lengths, reduced lead times and growing SKU diversity in labels and flexible packaging are fueling rapid growth in digital print solutions. At drupa, AB Graphic is demonstrating how long-term partnerships are delivering the solutions for this fast-evolving market, demonstrating its Digicon 3000, a 30 inch (762mm) finishing solution for flexible packaging and digitally printed labels. Visitors can view the Digicon 3000 on the HP booth in Hall 17, in both in- and off-line configurations alongside the HP Indigo 20000 Digital Press.

Co-developed with another British manufacturer, Edale, the Digicon 3000 made its debut two years ago, to coincide with the launch of the HP Indigo 20000. Key to the unit’s appeal is its modular concept, which gives ultimate flexibility for a variety of substrates and mid-web finishing applications. Configuration solutions for flexible packaging include: water and solvent based dry bond lamination, thermal lamination, E Beam coating & lamination, registered flexo and gravure, cold seal, slitting and more. For pressure sensitive labels, Digicon 3000 configuration options include: semi-rotary flexo, semi-rotary die cutting, foiling, slitting and dual rewind. Indeed, such is the variety of applications possible that no two units in the field are identical.

Each one of the technologies incorporated meets the fast time-to-market requirement that is the essential driver for the digitally printed packaging market. Rapid format change is facilitated by automating processes wherever possible: these include pre-register print, pre-register die cut, auto die load, and auto set slitting systems.

“The HP Indigo 20000 Digital Press and the Digicon 3000 epitomize the fast changing pace of the digital market,” says Tony Bell, Sales Director for A B Graphic International.

“We originally anticipated a high level of interest from the flexible packaging market, but have been pleasantly surprised at the uptake for label applications.”

“As volumes of digitally produced labels continue to grow and more brands select HP Indigo technology to drive innovative campaigns, converters want to expand capacity in HP Indigo end-to-end converting environments,” adds Alon Bar-Shany, General Manager, Indigo division, HP. “We are proud to integrate with ABG on the launch of the FAST Track Die for the Digicon Series 3, enabling digital converters to increase flexibility and reach new levels of productivity, while running inline or offline with the HP Indigo WS6800 and 8000 Digital Presses.”