M&R, Glen Ellyn, Ill., has added i-Image STE to its line of imaging systems.
The patent-pending i-Image STE is an all-in-one computer-to-screen (CTS) imaging and ultraviolet (UV) LED exposure system. The first of its kind, i-Image STE dramatically reduces the time and effort required to prepare images for screen printing, according to the company.
On the inward pass, i-Image STE uses specially formulated, water-based, UV-blocking ink and advanced high-resolution CTS inkjet printer technology to generate opaque images on emulsion-coated screens. On the outward pass, the built-in, high-output UV LED exposure system exposes imaged screens, which can be taken directly to washout.
CTS images are superior to traditional film positives, delivering greater detail and smoother halftone transitions, according to the company. i-Image STE eliminates the need for film positives, as well as the space and labor required to store and retrieve them.
i-Image STE’s onboard UV LED exposure system streamlines workflow and increases productivity, delivering fast, superior curing with lower energy costs, according to the company. Not only do LEDs use less energy, but they’re only turned on during the exposure process. M&R’s UV LEDs run cooler, save energy costs, reduce screen-exposure time and speed up production, according to the company.
Two i-Image STE models are available in three configurations: i-Image STE 1, with one industrial print head capable of imaging up to 150 screens per eight-hour shift; i-Image STE 2, with two print heads for imaging up to 250 screens per shift; and i-Image STE 3, with three print heads for imaging up to 350 screens per shift.
For more information, visit mrprint.com. — L.M.
