News
Kongsberg PCS launches semi-automated smart material handler
Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems has added the Smart Material Handler, a modular, sheet handling solution for the digital cutting of sign, display, folding carton and corrugated applications, to its product line-up. The new solution enables operators to load new materials while the cutter is still processing the previous sheet, acting as a buffer zone and allowing one operator to handle tasks that typically require two, cutting labour needs by 50%. The SMH comprises a loading table with an optional Underside Camera that automatically detects registration marks and adjusts positioning, and an offl oading table. Together, they act as extensions to the existing Kongsberg PCS cutting table, semi-automating the production workfl ow, enabling smoother loading and offl oading and bringing more fl exibility to production. The loading table is suitable for rigid substrates but has the option to be quickly replaced with a roll feeder, offering fl exible workfl ows for different material handling requirements and faster changeovers. In addition, the Smart Material Handler can be used in both landscape and portrait modes.
Connected to the other side of the cutting table,
the offl oad table is positioned at a fi xed 12° incline with integrated stoppers to securely hold fi nishing materials in place, facilitating smooth material unload and reducing potential costly errors. The Smart Material Handler is available as an add-on unit on all bed sizes for both the Kongsberg C-series and Ultimate series and can be retrofi tted to existing machines.
The TS200-1600 is latest dye sub printer to join Mimaki portfolio
Hybrid Services has announced the launch of the new Mimaki TS200-1600 sublimation inkjet printer. Building on the success of Mimaki’s 200 platform,
the new TS200-1600 delivers fast production speeds, high-quality and versatile applications at an affordable price point, making it an ideal solution for small shops, start-ups, and businesses looking to expand into customised goods and short-run textile production. Powered by the same core technology behind
Mimaki’s 330 Series, the TS200-1600 ensures smoother gradients, vivid colours, and outstanding accuracy without compromising on speed. Its extended eight-colour ink set includes the addition of orange and violet inks for richer tones and improved colour gamut, as well as newly developed fl uorescent pink and yellow inks for vibrant, eye-catching applications, such as sportswear, custom promotional items, home décor and soft signage. The printer runs on Mimaki’s Oeko-Tex
ECO-PASSPORT certifi ed Sb411 inks, ensuring high-density prints that are both durable and environmentally responsible. The certifi cation allows print providers to meet sustainability requirements
Mutoh’s AQUAFUZE ink compatible for professional cast media wrapping applications
After comprehensive testing, Mutoh has confi rmed that its AQUAFUZE water-based UV ink can be used in combination with Grafi typ’s professional-grade AE38C cast media for vehicle and object wrapping applications.
This joint technical initiative confi rms that Smart Material Handler
AQUAFUZE, Mutoh’s low-odour hybrid ink technology, is fully suited for demanding 3D wrapping scenarios, including conforming to deep recesses and curves. Comprehensive testing – conducted jointly by both companies – demonstrated excellent media compatibility and mechanical performance. The tests included stretch performance up to 185%, tensile strength evaluation, and peel force measurements under different lamination timings. Stephan Heintjens, general manager applications, Service & QA, Mutoh Europe, said: “With AQUAFUZE,
Online visitor registration now open for Sign & Digital UK
Visitor registration for Sign & Digital UK has now opened online. Next year’s exhibition is co-locating with
Printwear & Promotion LIVE! once again, and will take place in Hall 6 at the NEC in Birmingham. Plans are well underway for the exhibition, with another three days of exclusive product launches and showcases expected. For over 35 years, SDUK has been supporting
sign makers, vehicle wrappers and wide-format digital printers, and the 2026 exhibition will be no different. Visitors can expect key names from across the visual communications sector to be in attendance. The fl oor plan is now live on the exhibition website, so you can start to plan your visit.
With the co-located exhibitions attracting more than 7,000 visitors in 2025 and with more than
180 exhibitors showcasing their latest product innovations and sharing their vast industry knowledge, SDUK 2026 is one event you do not want to miss next year. Sign & Digital UK will take place from Sunday,
February 22 to Tuesday, February 24. So, save the date in your calendar!
• To register visit
www.signuk.com
www.imagereportsmag.co.uk | 7 The test with AQUAFUZE was printed on Grafi typ’s AE38C
print professionals no longer need to choose between environmental responsibility and application versatility.” The test with AQUAFUZE was printed on Grafi typ’s
AE38C, a cast fi lm that has proven itself in the market as a well-known and highly rated solution for demanding applications. Combining a thin 50 µm profi le with Air Escape technology for bubble-free application and a low-tack adhesive for easy repositioning, AE38C offers exceptional conformability to complex shapes and up to 10 years of outdoor durability, making it a trusted partner for high-end projects with more sustainable inks.
Mimaki TS200-1600
demanded by global textile brands and eco-conscious consumers. Arjen Evertse, director sales at Mimaki Europe, said: “The TS200-1600 represents the next step in our entry-level dye sublimation line. “It brings professional-level quality and colour brilliance to customers entering the dye sublimation market, while offering a user-friendly, cost-effi cient solution for short runs, proofi ng, and personalised applications. With its eco-friendly inks and Mimaki’s core technologies, it also supports a more sustainable production process.”
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