The family of HP Latex printing solutions distributed by HP channel partner William Smith has been extended with the addition of two new models. Both the HP Designjet L26500 printer (replacing the earlier HP Designjet L25500) and the larger HP Designjet L28500 machine (due for launch on 20th January) share all of the now familiar environmental and performance benefits but in addition open both similar and specific new applications through a raft of upgraded design features.
As with all HP Latex printers, these new platforms incorporate the unique and patented HP Latex Ink Technology. This has only a minimal VOC (volatile organic compound) content, contains no HAP (hazardous air pollutants) and does not generate ozone emissions during the printing process. As a consequence, no expensive fume extraction or special ventilating equipment is required, thus adding to the appeal of migrating from hazardous solvent-based systems to this faster, cleaner and ultimately more cost-effective water-based printing technology.
The HP Designjet L26500 now has a larger print width of 61 inches (1550mm) that makes the printer better suited to applications involving flexible media used, for example, in soft signage and textile printing. Furthermore, a new 40kg take-up system with dancer bar will increase the printer’s ability to keep media under tension for unattended printing. The L26500 also allows simultaneous double-sided printing as well as providing new ink formulations that are said to impart deeper and glossier colours and an enriched black finish. The six-colour platform provides a print resolution of 1200dpi and a variable print speed of up to 22.8 square metres/hour. It will handle a wider range of roll-fed media, including vinyl, backlit polyester film, textiles, thin banner-grade material and lined mesh for porous media.
The larger HP Designjet L28500 has been engineered to meet the needs of companies with an even broader range of applications and higher productivity levels and in particular those companies who perceive textile printing and soft signage applications as specific areas for future growth. The printer has an addressable width of 104 inches (2.6m) and shares the same environmental and performance benefits of the L26500 model but in addition can claim a 70 per cent increase in productivity.
Both printers are fully compliant with all relevant EU safety and environmental standards. Significantly, these include GREENGUARD certification that will enable odourless printed output for the more sensitive environmental applications such as those found in hospitals, educational establishments and other buildings where standards of health and safety are paramount.
The printers are compatible with both MAC and PC platforms, have a one-year warranty and are supported by the comprehensive HP Care Pack Service package.