Matthews Intelligent Identification has added the highly efficient Linx 6900 Solver to its Linx 6900 continuous inkjet (CIJ) range.
The Linx 6900 Solver uses a new ink system and specifically created intelligent software to “think as it inks”.
The software measures how much ink is being returned from the print-head via the gutter line in real time, and the Solver's ink system dynamically adjusts the amount of suction applied to the gutter, according to how much ink is being returned.
This means the printer always provides enough suction to clear the gutter, but not too much (unlike standard CIJ printers).
Optimised suction reduces airflow in the gutter line, which in turn reduces solvent evaporation. An added benefit is that because the Linx 6900 Solver uses less solvent, it reduces the environmental impact of coding.
Raw material processing, packaging and transportation requirements are all reduced.
Less solvent is evaporated into the atmosphere — so there is less smell — and Linx printer solvents are non-toxic, offering greater environmental benefits than other coders.
Carl Reid, Matthews’ product manager for inkjet products, says, “This is the most effective and reliable solvent saving technique we've seen so far.
"Of the more traditional systems currently available, the ‘condense and recycle’ method can affect ink quality, while the ‘pulsed gutter suction’ process can allow ink to build up in the print-head. This often means more regular print-head cleaning and increased downtime.
“So reducing solvent usage is a smart decision on several fronts,” Reid says. “The efficiency of this new technique means that less solvent — and therefore less money — is going down the drain, which is better for both the environment and the bottom line.”
However, in looking at reducing solvent usage, it’s vital to consider the impact on the print.
“For instance, reducing solvent use to reduce environmental impact is a worthy notion, but completely useless economically to the business if the print suffers," reid explains.
"The R&D behind the new Linx 6900 Solver ensures the same, high quality print — regardless of solvent volumes used; that’s why we’re calling it ‘intelligent’.”
In addition to its 40% solvent saving, the Linx 6900 Solver maintains all of the established functionality of the standard model: 5-line printing at speeds of up to 8.4m/s, an intuitive colour user-interface with WYSIWYG display and menu system, low-maintenance operation and an attractive curved appearance.
Reid says this new model will be of particular interest to large-scale users of CIJ technology, who are printing 24/7.
“The standard Linx 6900 is already one of the most economical models available,” he explains, “but we recognise that for those manufacturers who are continuously running multiple printers, solvent costs can soon add up — and the disposal of solvent waste can also present quite a problem.
"This is where the Linx 6900 Solver can achieve the greatest savings.
“And, while the potential 40% solvent reduction relates to comparison with a standard Linx printer, savings may be even greater compared with other CIJ brands.”