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MUTOH has announced the release of the HydrAton1642, a 64-inch roll-to-roll printer featuring a new ‘AQUAFUZE’ water-based ink technology
MUTOH Europe has announced the release of the HydrAton 1642, a 64-inch roll-to-roll printer featuring the company's latest water-based UV technology.
First showcased at drupa 2024, the HydrAton 1642 utilises a new ‘AQUAFUZE’ UV-curable ink technology.
The solution, which was developed by Fujifilm, involves a hybrid ink system that combines the benefits of water-based and UV-curable inks. It aims to utilise Fujifilm’s proprietary dispersion technology to achieve low volatile organic compound (VOC), low-odour, and non-hazardous printing.
AQUAFUZE has a VOC content of less than 15%, with the formulation designed to minimise emissions.
AQUAFUZE has also been designed to adhere to a wider range of substrates including non-porous materials, without the need for primers or adhesion promoters. The ink film has been developed to offer high scratch resistance without requiring an overcoat, making it ideal for wallpapers, retail décor, indoor signage, and public space applications.
Additionally, the ink is free from substances of very high concern (SVHC), aligning with regulatory standards aimed at safeguarding both operators and the environment.
The ink film formation system combines a three-way heater, a blower fan, and a UV lamp, which according to the company increases image quality and durability.
The HydrAton 1642 operates at temperatures of 30°C to 50°C, lower than conventional industrial latex and water-based resin ink printers. The low temperature is designed to ensure compatibility with heat sensitive substrates, while reducing energy consumption and CO₂ emissions.
The machine is equipped with two AccuFineHD print heads, which are developed specifically to reduce banding and ensure sharp details like fine lines and small text. AccuFine print heads come with an increased nozzle row length and high-density nozzle pitch in comparison to other print head models.
The printer is powered by MUTOH’s VerteLith RIP software and includes a range of automation features.
Its DropMaster 2 tool automatically adjusts bi-directional alignment for improved registration. The FeedMaster tool automates media feed correction using built-in sensors. Finally, the RIP’s Media Tracker prints and scans barcodes to track remaining media length, with the aim of reducing material waste.
The HydrAton 1642 is now available for sale through MUTOH’s certified distributors and partners in Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
Graphtec GB has announced that they are the exclusive UK distributor for the new Mutoh HydrAton 1642.
The first demonstration unit will soon be available to view at Graphtec GB’s showroom in Wrexham. Resellers can order samples now and arrange demonstration visits when the machine is installed.
