67 March / April 2024 - Issue 347 www.printmonthly.co.uk are suitable for indoor and outdoor applications, with a high degree of durability and scratch-resistance. “Of course, printers should also be taking note of the engineering quality of their potential new machine and any features which improve operability, output, and quality of productivity,” he says, adding: “A linear motor is included in the larger Gibson models, for instance, which reduces friction and maintenance, while offering higher performance. A feature-rich easy-touse control system is a must. “While all manufacturers will talk about features, at RSR we believe that value for money is crucial when making investment decisions – it’s a very competitive market out there, and capital repayments can be a severe drain on a company’s profitability. It amazes us that some will pay a hefty premium for a ‘big brand’ machine that is – for all practical purposes – identical to a machine like the Gibson which has a much lower price tag. “Savvy printers are cottoning on to this – that’s why our order book is full, and the number of UK Gibson installations is growing month on month.” Built to Last Of course, it is not just printers that can be hybrid, with the finishing part of production also benefitting from machines that can carry out more than one task. This year, Vivid Laminating Technologies is pushing its new Easymount Hybrid laminator, a multi-patented innovation with roll-to-roll HOVER technology, for long-run and rollfed laminating. “Designed to perform, built to last and developed in-house by Vivid, the Easymount Hybrid is the world’s first allin-one roll-fed laminator and applicator,” says Vivid director Lewis Evans, adding: “Working with a hybrid machine like this makes investment in technology cheaper for PSPs. You also have the added benefit of the one machine taking up far less floorspace than two machines.” The Easymount Hybrid features a modular design that can be configured according to users’ specific production needs and incorporates both a traditional roll-fed laminator and a flatbed applicator. It also has a digital control panel that the manufacturer says is very user-friendly, meaning even novice operators can achieve results with complete accuracy, quickly and easily. Those interested in viewing the new machine can do so at all major industry events this year, with Vivid set to showcase the Easymount Hybrid at exhibitions including The Print Show. Vivid will once again have a major presence at the show, which this year will be taking place from 17th to 19th September at the NEC in Birmingham. The benefits of hybrid machines are incredibly clear to see. Investment in a piece of kit that can perform more than one task will save PSPs having to splash out on two machines, while a single device takes up far less space in the print room than two separate machines. And with both print and finishing solutions on offer in this space, there are plenty of options and opportunities for PSPs to explore. Repro Sales & Repairs offers the three models from the Gibson hybrid UV printer range ► HYBRID MACHINES Vivid’s Easymount Hybrid incorporates both a traditional roll-fed laminator and a flatbed applicator ► Fujifilm’s Acuity Ultra Hybrid prints at speeds of up to 218sq m/hr 218
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjM0NDIxOA==