With research1 showing continued growth in the demand for quick turnaround wide format print jobs , investing in a flexible and productive roll-to-roll printer is crucial for print businesses in this space.
However, purchasing a new roll-to-roll printer that fits the specific needs of your business can be time-consuming and complex. What’s worse, as a long-term investment, making the wrong choice could be an expensive mistake, and with so many options available in the market, it can be tricky to know where to start.
Although the initial cost will always be a key factor in the decision-making process, checking the specifications to ensure the printer will be capable of delivering the right speeds, volumes, quality and handling the full range of media types holds equal weight. You have to decide which device will provide the best solution for the business while also taking into account the longer-term goals to ensure the printer will be fit for purpose for the years ahead. You can check this by weighing up cost versus capabilities and considering the total cost of ownership of the printer, i.e. energy usage, costs of peripherals and any other hidden expenses over time.
Below, are some questions worth asking when working out the true lifetime costs of a roll-to-roll printer.
How much does the ink cost and how much does the printer consume?
You should consider not only the cost of the ink but also how much ink the printer consumes and whether any extra consumables are needed to run the printing process. It’s easy to be wowed with low upfront ink costs, but that’s only part of the picture. Looking at the ink consumption per square metre for the desired print quality will help to make a better comparison with other printers.
Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?
What may initially look like a good deal on a roll-to-roll printer could be undone by hidden running and maintenance costs, with additional chemicals required, and high ink consumption, which could drastically increase monthly outgoings. And with growing uncertainty around utility charges, maintenance costs and power consumption are critical factors to consider.
How can I ensure the printer is sustainable but also cost efficient?
No longer just a ‘nice to have’, sustainability is increasingly important for print and visual communication businesses, driven by government guidelines and customer values. By opting for a modular device, you can find a printer that will stand the test of time and grow with the business. Choosing a roll-to-roll printer that is upgradable in the field, for example with extra ink channels and roll media options, will allow your business to keep up to date with the latest technology, so you can deliver the right quality and embrace the latest trends to satisfy customer demand. Having a modular device that can be easily upgraded as your business evolves, without the need to replace it will also prevent unnecessary waste. By keeping the existing printer in use for as long as possible, you are not only reducing the overall environmental impact of the upgrade, but you could also save considerably on costs.
Can I cut back to one printer instead of having two?
You can also be savvy and save on costs and floor space by opting for a high-productivity printer, such as the Colorado, that can deliver the same output as two to three alternative engines. With a robust, long-lasting and high-volume device, your business could cut back to just one roll-to-roll printer, therefore saving on overall running and maintenance costs, as well as capital investment.
How else can I save costs?
It’s worth investing in automation to reduce overall costs. A streamlined, efficient workflow and automated maintenance concept will not only create a fast production line, but will also help to save on operator time and bring further savings. A modular, long-lasting printer that can be updated with the latest software to stay on top of increasingly tight customer lead times, is vital. And this isn’t limited to software, other options such as the UVgel Packaging Factory, UVgel Print Factory and UVgel Wallpaper Factory can help you expand and diversify your business’s offering into new markets. By investing in the right areas, your business will be set up for the future with a roll-to-roll printer that will stand the test of time.
What are the commercial advantages of UVgel?
UVgel is a gel-based ink that solidifies under UV light. It has the same principles as a UV ink, but the gel properties reduce the amount of ink required to produce the same level of density and colour as other inks, while also creating a robust ink surface and the option of textured print. UVgel is very durable, resulting in minimal need for lamination (only required for very specific applications), and the prints dry instantly, eliminating smudging or sticking concerns. UVgel prints are also odourless, making them suitable for indoor environments, so ideal for wallpapers and signage. The gel property of the patented UVgel ink prevents ink coalescence and ensures optimal dot control, resulting in precise and vibrant prints. All in all, UVgel technology is a good all-rounder, delivering the benefits of other ink types without their downsides, and providing the flexibility and possibility to print on a wider range of substrates.
What kind of service packages should I look for?
In the longer term, ensuring that the technology in your business is covered by the right warranty and servicing contracts will pay for itself by avoiding any unforeseen costs and unplanned downtime. Canon offers many service options to ensure a printer remains operational with high uptime for years to come. Extended warranty is also available for peace of mind long beyond the initial installation.
In summary
When choosing a roll-to-roll printer, it’s important to look at all the available options and trade-offs, to prevent any unwanted surprises. Advertised upfront device and ink costs, can be misleading. Take into consideration how complex a printer is to maintain and its overall uptime to curate a complete picture of the true lifetime cost of the device for your business. And don’t forget peripherals! If you select the right technology and software, you can achieve a greater overall return on your investment. By opting for a robust, modular device that will stand the test of time and can grow with your business, you can also prevent the unnecessary waste and business disruption of having to replace your roll-to-roll printer prematurely.