SwissQprint "close to matching offset print standards" with droplet breakthrough

SwissQprint said its inkjet systems are now close to offset standard after it reduced its droplet size by 36%.

The large-format manufacturer used Fespa to unveil the breakthrough, which will give printers a new 9-picolitre production mode in addition to the usual 14-picolitre droplet size.

The new option will be integrated into future Oryx, Impala and Nyala machines "immediately and at no extra cost", said SwissQprint. Existing users will be charged an upgrade fee, "but minimal compared with the extra benefit they are gaining", according to local distributor Positive Camtec.

"It gives users an additional production mode for ultra-exacting photo print work with fine colour gradations - ideal for subjects that require uniform expanses of colour without screening artefacts - and reproduction of fine detail," according to SwissQprint.

[Review: SwissQprint Impala]

"It fulfils the needs of pin-sharp typography with bravura too, and all of this with no appreciable reduction in speed compared to the previous highest-quality mode."

The 14-picolitre droplet size will remain the default, however the 9-picolitre option will be automatically selected for fine art applications.

"With light shades in use, the maximum visual resolution on the substrate reaches 2,160dpi.

"Small print runs and prototypes may thus be displayed confidently alongside offset reproductions.

"The smaller droplets represent an attractive extension of capabilities for digital printers, with potential to draw new jobs and customers."

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