HP LAUNCHES RIGID AND FLEXIBLE PRINTER

HP has launched a new wide-format printer, the HP Latex R530, aimed at small to medium sized printshops, that will print both flatbed and roll-to-roll, with says HP, a fast and easy switch between the two.

The company says the rationale behind the new printer is that small and medium printshops can struggle with rigid printing due to space constraints, high investment costs, and operational complexity, which means they often resort to inefficient workflows or outsourcing. And it says that larger print businesses are often looking for solutions that elevate their offerings, and enable them to execute short runs of both rigid and flexible media. 

IT says the HP Latex R530 delivers a more accessible and efficient printing solution that streamlines production for small and medium-sized print shops (PSPs), and is “an ideal solution” for PSPs looking to enter or expand in the rigid printing market, as the R530 offers “seamless all-in-one printing with ease of operation” thanks to its compact design, elevated application capabilities, and sustainability. 

“The HP Latex R530 eliminates trade-offs associated with traditional flatbeds, as the only all-in-one compact HP Latex printing solution. We constantly innovate to equip PSPs with the tools that enable sustainable growth, and this latest addition to our latex portfolio offers a solution for businesses of all sizes to elevate their operations and scale sustainably” said Daniel Martinez, global head and general manager of HP Large Format Business. 

The company said the compact hybrid design of the HP Latex R530 Printer allows fast and easy switch between rigid and flexible applications, delivering “consistent, high-quality output” across multiple media types. According to HP, print businesses “can tap into new markets and expand print applications” with HP Latex Inks and HP Latex White Ink, and “ensure vibrant colours and smooth gradients” with HP Pixel Control technology. Automatic recirculation and printhead cleaning enable businesses to bolster uptime and reduce maintenance costs, while a single-phase power system enables installation in constrained spaces. 

HP says direct-to-rigid printing reduces waste while maintaining the recyclability of fibre-based media. The device integrates sustainable innovation, including UL Ecologo-certified HP Latex Inks for “a healthier” workspace, returnable extended-life maintenance cartridges, and 25 per cent recycled plastic in the printer’s design, to promote circularity.  

 The HP Latex R530 is expected to be available in Australia and New Zealand next month.