Printastic Mimaki UJF-3042 Series
The Mimaki UJF-3042 series is the YPS Printastic printer for August. As part of this promotion we will be producing a series of articles about everything the UJF3042 series can offer. First up, Lauren our Software Support writes about her experiences with this printer.
Flatbed Printer Novice
When I first joined Your Print Specialists several months ago I had no experience of using a flatbed printer. My knowledge lay with roll to roll and dye sublimation mainly. YPS have a Mimaki UJF-3042fx for demonstration use and having the opportunity to learn and use this machine has opened my eyes to the possibilities this printer offers.
The 3042 series features two flatbed printers. The FX model can print direct onto substrates up to 50mm thick and the HG model up to 150mm thick. The HG model also boasts an additional kebab option allowing for printing on to curved surfaces. YPS has the FX model in house for demonstrations.
Getting to grips with the UJF-3042
The full technical specifications for the UJF series can be found on the printer information page. I’ve taken a look at the key features the UJF-3042 offers.
There are three types of UV ink available: LH-100 are hard UV inks that scratch and chemical resistant. Available in CMYK, White, Clear and Primer. LF-200 are a flexible UV ink set. Ink can be stretched up to 200% during post production. Available in CMYK and white. LF-140 ink sets are more flexible than the LH-100 and offer a strong gradation in 6-colour printing. Available in CMYK, Light Cyan, Light Magenta, White and a Primer.
Our UJF-3042 has LF-140 CMYK cartridges installed along with a white ink and clear varnish. The white is great for use as an under print on transparent substrates to make colours pop and as an overprint on coloured substrates. Using the clear varnish can protect the image as well as be used to highlight and create a spot varnish finish.
The UJF-3042 also comes with Mimaki Spray Suppressor System which prevents errant ink drops ensuring print quality and consistency remains high and the Nozzle Recovery System allowing you to keep printing temporarily should a nozzle go down, until any maintenance issues can be resolved.
RIP Software – Rasterlink 5
The UJF-3042 is powered using Rasterlink 5. This RIP software is really easy to get to grips with. There are options relating to colour density, white ink under prints as well as gloss options. It may seem a little daunting to begin with but it is easy to see how each option effects the print and its actually good fun to experiment with the different ink options available.
Using Adhesion Promoters
The scope of objects and materials that can be printed using the UJF is vast. From promotional items such as pens and USB sticks to signage, plastic cards for id’s or samples/prototypes. Depending on the material, sometimes an adhesion promoter is required to to ensure a successful print. YPS have a range of promoters available for glass, metal as well as various plastics. Bond-Aid both cleans and aids adhesion and I’ve used this on both contour pens and USB twisters to great result.
The UJF-3042FX is a fun printer to use, maybe it’s because the finished printed item is so tactile, in my experience anyway. Being able to print on objects that will be used daily in some cases is quite exciting even if it is just a pen or a key ring!