Platinum Press, Inc. (PPI) has commenced print runs utilizing a digital printing system with inks that are free of VOCs, PFAS and other carcinogens. Now online at Platinum Press’ recently expanded manufacturing facility, the Durst Tau RSCi digital press employs FDA-compliant inks for indirect food and drug contact. In addition, the press produces vibrant, seven-color “true” 1200 x 1200-pixel resolution even at top operating speeds.

In recent years, authorities in the United States, the European Union and other developed markets have started testing various products for potential carcinogens capable of migrating through plastic bottles and other packaging substrates.

Among other concerns, studies have determined that VOCs commonly found in printing inks pose risks to consumers. This finding has been reinforced by several noteworthy recalls. And while efforts to diminish VOCs in conventional flexographic printing inks have proved promising, functionality issues have hindered their complete elimination. 

Bringing value to customers

Considering this, the Durst press brings value to customers in the pharma, medical device and health and beauty sectors. In addition to PFAS and VOCs, the inks also eschew other potentially hazardous chemicals, including Bisphenol A (BPA), trimethyl-benzoyl diphenyl-phosphine oxide (TPO), mineral oils and certain heavy metals.

Crucially for Platinum Press’ wide-ranging printing needs, the Durst system achieves these heightened safety parameters while maintaining excellent functionality, as well as the inherent flexibility long associated with digital printing. The system can match up to 95% of Pantone colors, and provides exemplary white opacity, lightfastness, and resistance to chemicals, water and extreme temperatures.

For maximum uptime, the Durst Tau RSCi’s off-line finishing units allow small-run specialty projects to be produced efficiently and effectively. This is particularly apparent in the production of small- and medium-run booklet-style or two-ply extended-text labels – both key categories for Platinum Press.

“As the needs of our pharma, medical device and health and beauty customers’ evolve, so must our printing capabilities – including the ability to employ next-generation inks that meet elevated safety requirements,” says Andrew Vale, vice president of Platinum Press. “As we simultaneously heighten capacity and extend capabilities across several categories, we continue to address emerging trends and industry issues with strategic, readily accessible solutions. In the case of our new Durst digital press and ink system, that means reacting to the future in the present, and trailblazing rather than following.”