Spanish manufacturer Bagel Systems has released a new double-sided laminator for the digital print market. It will be sold in the UK via Duplo.
The Digifav B3 will handle up to 2,000 SRA3 sheets an hour when laminating, equivalent to 20m/min. The machine though can apply foils and spot matt and high gloss effects with an optional foiling unit.
The device uses Bagel’s thermal oil heated pressure roller system to ensure an even temperature across the width of the sheet and from sheet to sheet. Other methods of heating do not offer this control or consistency says Bagel.
The unit has a cooling system to bring the working temperature back down with a micro perf wheel to separate the sheets. PLC units provide reliability for the electronics on the device.
Duplo UK’s head of sales Craig Harry says: “The Digifav B3 DS is as intuitive as it is innovative. Its user-friendly touch screen interface, combined with features like auto-start and rapid film loading, minimises downtime and maximises creative output. Coupled with top tier safety features – including CE compliance and continuous monitoring – this laminator ensures both outstanding performance and a secure working environment. This machine’s blend of speed, precision, and ease of use is exactly what modern printers need to elevate their production and embrace the future of digital printing.”
As well as the SRA3 machine, Bagel produces B2 laminators again with foiling options that can be supplied as new or retrofitted. The Digifav will also complement Duplo’s SRA3 DuSense which can embellish through spot varnish and textured effects, does not have foiling capability.
The question is about demand for such a machine. Duplo will be aiming at businesses that have reached the limits of smaller machines, either in capability or productivity, or else need to replace older machines. Duplo is unlikely to find new printers bringing lamination in house for the first time as the trend for in-house finishing has been underway for some years. At the same time concern about the recyclability of printed products employing plastic film lamination has risen.
