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China Print Supplies now offers the 1.8m Gongzheng HB18UV PRO hybrid printer to the UK market, which offers eight Epson printheads, multi-layer print capabilities, and a vacuum mesh belt system
China Print Supplies (CPS) has added the 1.8m Gongzheng HB18UV PRO to its lineup of hybrid print solutions.
The UK-based distributor of Chinese print solutions chose the Gongzheng press for its flexibility and its competitive price point in comparison to similar models.
The compact hybrid UV press, which can be used for both rigid and roll media, can be configured with up to eight Epson I3200-U1 printheads, printing white and varnish alongside CMYK.
Printing uses piezo variable dot greyscale technology for fine detail and smooth gradients, with a white ink recirculation and stirring system designed to keep pigment in suspension for consistent white density and lower maintenance.
Scott Clutton, managing director of China Print Supplies, says: "This is a serious production machine. Eight Epson heads, white and varnish, multi-layer printing, and an industrial belt system – and the output quality speaks for itself. Set that against a starting price of £37,000 and it is one of the strongest cases I have seen for a 1.8m hybrid."
As part of the purchasing deal, CPS will install and commission each machine in the UK, with operator training included as standard and ongoing technical support from its own team.
The HB18UV PRO can print onto rigid materials including PVC, foam board, corrugated board, aluminium sheet, and wood, as well as flexible roll media such as vinyl, banner, backlit film, fabric, wallpaper, and leather.
A vacuum conveyer mesh belt system with extension tables moves both rigid and flexible substrates through the machine, which takes rolls up to 300mm in diameter and 50kg in weight on both 2in or 3in cores.
Curing is handled by a dual water-cooled LED UV system for instant drying, lower energy use, and adhesion across the full range of materials. The machine uses GREENGUARD Gold certified UV ink from a bulk supply with 1500ml capacity.
The press can be seen in action at The Sign Show 2026, which takes place from September 29th to October 1st in Hall 1 of the NEC in Birmingham, co-located with The Print Show.
CPS will present a range of its solutions from two stands this year (Stand S220 and S420), allowing it to increase its presence and display a wider range of technology than the debut Sign Show event in 2025.
