Prototyping specialist opts for Roland VersaUV LEC-540
The first Roland DG VersaUV LEC-540 UV-curable printer to be sold in Europe has been installed at Kent-based packaging specialist Beams International. This print-and-cut system, which has a 1.37m width plus white ink and clear varnish, was chosen for its versatility, low investment cost and accuracy of output on all materials.
Beams International specialises in the design and manufacture of gift packs, and packaging of goods for promotions in the food and drinks’ industry. The company creates and produces branded and bespoke items for the retail market in the UK and overseas, designed to build awareness for consumers through innovative and unusual packaging solutions.
Realising that its existing wide-format proofing system was limited because its aqueous-based inks were not able to output to the actual materials used in a final production run, Beams wanted a solution which would provide a true simulation of its packaging creations. Working with UK specialist Roland DG’s partner, Revolution, the company opted for the VersaUV LEC-540 which uses flexible UV-curable inks and outputs onto a broad range of substrates.
Because of the special finishes incorporated into its packaging prototypes, Beams also required a combination system which not only could print, crease and cut but was able to simulate accurate proofs on a variety of materials. Being able to produce precise mock-ups, incorporating both matched colour and accurate folding, was of vital importance to the company so that brand owners and customers could view and touch a true representation of finished products.
“From the moment that we ordered the new printer we had a demand for its unique capabilities and since its installation and commissioning we have been able to produce prototype packaging that is as good as the real thing,” said Matthew Russell, commercial director at Beams. “Our customers have been able to understand in an instant what our proposition is and what the finished packaging will eventually look like.”
