Features Printing Production Inkjet
Domino Launches Inkjet Cold Foiling

Domino is introducing its first digital cold foil solution based around its K600i inkjet print module. The cold foiling technology uses the K600i to print an adhesive and create the image area prior to UV-curing and delamination.

Unlike some other inkjet systems that print metallic ink to provide a foil-like effect, Domino explains its cold foil technology is based on real conventional metallic foil to provide a higher quality finish. The company’s solution also allows for the application of security and decorative holographic images within the foil.  

Domino’s cold foil technology can operate at speeds up to 75 metres per minute (246 ft/min) and can be supplied as a standalone unit or be retrofitted to an existing foiling station. It is offered in up to seven different foiling widths ranging from 108 mm (4.25 inches) up to 782 mm (30.81 inches).

 “We have been facing an increasing demand for a digital coil foil solution over the last seven years, so have now combined the latest higher resolution K600i print technology with an advanced adhesive formulation and a web handling solution supplied by AB Graphic International,” said Philip Easton, Director of Domino’s Digital Printing Solutions Division.

Since the launch of the K600i monochrome ink jet printer in 2010, Domino has installed over 200 modules in a range of production lines, including label presses for hybrid printing, and finishing and sheet-to-sheet lines. The new K600i cold foiling solution is based on the same technology, but uses a new adhesive.

Inkjet-based foiling represents a unique proposition for security applications, explains Domino, by allowing the use of holographic foil with inkjet produced images. This leads to product complexity and makes counterfeiting increasingly difficult to achieve.

The K600i foiling technology leverages Domino’s i-Tech products, including the i-Tech ActiFlow ink circulating system to ensure ink is always moving around the print head. i-Tech CleanCap automated print head cleaning and capping technology reduces manual operator intervention. i-Tech StitchLink micro-motor controller technology ensures that all heads are automatically and properly calibrated to print as one.