Ricoh is using Drupa as a launchpad for its new large-format inkjet technology, in an attempt to reach as many commercial printers as possible.

The firm is demonstrating its Ricoh Pro L4000 series on its stand in hall 8a, although the kit will not be available in Europe until the first quarter of 2013.

“The Ricoh Group has been at the forefront of inkjet technology research and development for many years and now the time is now right to launch an extremely competitive large-format inkjet printer range for the graphic arts market,” comments production print director of Ricoh UK, Stephen Palmer.

It features next-generation of Ricoh's piezo-electric print heads with durable latex ink in seven colours; CMYK, light cyan, light magenta and white.

Manufacturers say it can support a range of substrates such as textiles and coated paper, and can be used to create signage, point of purchase and both indoor and outdoor display.

The technology boasts an output speed of up to 18.1sq m per hour, which Ricoh says will enhance productivity further.
Drupa has seen a growth in the amount of large-format solutions on display, as manufacturers look to capitalise on the growing number of commercial printers moving into this type of work.