A New Avenue Japanese wide-format manufacturer, Mimaki, has unveiled a raft of solutions in the last year, including a number of new offerings at this year’s FESPA Global Print Expo. A standout among these many solutions was the JV200-160, a new roll-to-roll printer based on the previously released CJV200 series that aims to offer an entry-level option to the market without compromising on quality. Andrew Edwards, partner sales manager of Sign & Graphics at Hybrid Services, Mimaki’s exclusive distributor for the UK and Ireland, says there’s more than meets the eye with this new machine. “While the Mimaki JV200-160 is categorised as an ‘entry-level’ solvent printer, that doesn’t really do it justice,” says Edwards. “Yes, it’s accessible and easy to use, but it delivers far more than you’d expect at this level. It’s a great first investment for a new print business thanks to its simplicity, print quality, and speed, but those same qualities make it a smart addition for established companies looking to increase capacity without overstretching.” The 1.6m eco-solvent inkjet printer is equipped with a single 330 Engine print head, allowing operators to produce prints more simply without the need for exhaustive experience. However, this simplicity belies the speed of the press. The JV200160 offers reported production speeds of up to 17sq m/hr, which the company labels as “the highest entry-level practical print speed.” When announcing the JV200-160, Arjen Evertse, director of sales at Mimaki Europe, commented: “Our CJV200 series of integrated printer/cutters, introduced last October, has been extremely well received by the market. The JV200-160 joins this product series to deliver the same exemplary image quality and top-level productivity for the entry class – now in a print-only model that’s easy to operate and maintain.” Alongside the printhead, the press utilises Mimaki’s BS4 ink set, supplied in 600ml cartridges. The press is also compatible with Mimaki’s new ink SS22 ink, which has been calculated to reduce odour by approximately 40% and is free from gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), the use of which has been increasingly regulated around the world. The press uses the same piezoelectric printhead assembly as the manufacturer’s CJV330 series models, offering a range of resolutions from 600x600 to 1200x1200dpi, with reported drop sizes down to as little as 3pl. Speaking about why the demand for the series remains strong, Edwards highlights an increasing need for signage and graphics professionals to keep costs down while maintaining a minimum quality standard. “From a commercial perspective, the value proposition is remarkable”, he asserts. “The JV200-160 holds its own against other brands’ higher-priced eco-solvent and latex models, but with a significantly lower upfront investment. For a budget-conscious buyer, it delivers on all fronts.” Edwards goes on to highlight the importance of choosing a solution from a proven manufacturer, with a strong technological track record to work from. As he puts it: “Importantly, the new printer is based on a proven platform. The JV200160 uses the same core print engine as our flagship 330 Series. That technology is robust, reliable, and already working successfully in high-demand production environments. “If you’re looking to step into wide format solvent printing or simply want a hardworking addition to your existing setup, the JV200-160 delivers capability and confidence at a very competitive price point.” Room to Grow As businesses continue to demand more agile, efficient, and high-quality print capabilities, wide-format solutions will need to step up with innovations that blend speed, precision, and sustainability. As it stands, it seems that the technology is keeping in step with the sector, providing more possibilities by the day. With advancements in automation, smart connectivity, and sustainable solutions on the horizon, the next wave of wide-format solutions have the chance to not just meet the needs of today but also reshape what is possible tomorrow. ▲The JV200-160, a new roll-to-roll printer based on the previously released CJV200 series, has recently been showcased by Mimaki and Hybrid Services 56 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 259 - June / July 2025 Yes, it’s accessible and easy to use, but it delivers far more than you’d expect at this level. It’s a great first investment for a new print business thanks to its simplicity, print quality, and speed WIDE-FORMAT PRINT KIT PART 1.
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