ROCHESTER, NY—Kodak is introducing its ULTRASTREAM technology in the new Uteco Sapphire EVO W, the first flexible packaging press to enter the market using Kodak’s latest continuous inkjet technology.
The first ULTRASTREAM system with a print width of 4 feet (1.25 meters) has been sold into the market in advance of its expected debut at drupa 2020 in Dusseldorf, Germany with a healthy pipeline of active prospects, according to Kodak. The wide format of the new Sapphire EVO W allows brands to leverage digital printing in their traditional flexographic print formats.
Enabled by water-based inks and production speeds equivalent to analogue presses, the Sapphire EVO W can print short- to medium-run length jobs, achieving price points favorable to flexography. Sapphire digital solutions execute variable data campaigns and are meant to reduce waste and excess inventory, delivering increased sales at lower costs. Included in the delivery of the Sapphire EVO W is Kodak’s environmentally friendly and industry-compliant inks and fluids, which open the door for applications in food, beverage, and personal care.
“ULTRASTREAM is revolutionizing flexible packaging for brands,” said Randy Vandagriff, president, Enterprise Inkjet Systems Division and vice president, Eastman Kodak Co. “Uteco’s application of our technology in their new press is a game changer and a great example of how Kodak is helping printers to lower their costs and drive efficiency. We are proud to be delivering on the promise we made in February to have units in the market by the second half of 2020.”
“Converters and brands expect quality solutions that are sustainable and uphold brand integrity. We are proud to work with Kodak to deliver new technologies that meet such demands and enable growth,” said Aldo Peretti, president and CEO of the Uteco Group.