Roland DG launches new benchtop printer

Roland DG is launching a new 30” UV flatbed benchtop printer that it says will print high quality images onto a range of both rigid and flexible materials - such as leather and fabric - for realistic effect images.

The new VersaUV LEF2-300 uses UV-LED lamps to instantly cure ink on the surface of materials with UV light, so that photos, graphics and fine text can be printed onto PVC, plastics, canvas, wood, leather, fabric, and other materials, with what Roland DG says is unmatched print quality.

The company says that using clear (transparent) ink produces premium gloss and matte finishes that can be applied in multiple layers, for a simulated embossing look and textures that seem lifelike.

The LEF2-300 is the newest model in the LEF2 series, delivering 1.5-times the print area and print speed of the recently released LEF2-200. It also comes with a range of new functions that the company says makes it easier and more efficient to use.

Print area is 770x330x100mm. It has four print heads and two UV lamps, which the company says ensures enhanced productivity.

A height tolerance of 2mm allows printing onto curved and irregular shapes, and an optional rotary axis jig is available for printing onto bottles and other cylindrical objects.

Roland DG says it is releasing the new VersaUV to enable printers to capitalise on the trend to personalisation. Kohei Tanabe, president of Roland DG's Digital Printing Business Division said, “As lifestyles and preferences become increasingly varied, the demand for making one-of-a-kind items or high-mix, small-batch runs, continues to grow. The LEF2 series is designed to meet such demand. The devices are capable of on-demand printing quickly onto a diverse range of materials. The addition of the LEF2-300 to the series lineup gives the ability to print amazing graphics and lifelike textures.”