Images Magazine December 2016

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52 IMAGES DECEMBER 2016
COMPUTER-TO-SCREEN & PRE-PRESS PF
Pre-press labour-savers
Automation used to be the preserve of large print operations, but computer-to-screen technology and other pre-
press labour-saving devices are now within the financial reach of most print shops and are transforming the way
that screen printers operate
The FreeStyler with the optional
under-counter Expose DTS UV Screen
Exposure System
“The i-Image S is so affordable and feature-rich that it’s
quickly becoming the most popular way for small and
mid-size shops to get into computer-to-screen imaging
without compromising quality or durability,” reports M&R.
The i-Image S features the same proprietary RIP software, print
head, output quality and image area as M&R’s well-known i-Im-
age ST 36-1, but has a smaller footprint and the ability to image
up to 100 screens per shift. It features M&R’s exclusive Tri-Sync
System, which the company says virtually eliminates improper
screen alignment by using three electronically-linked stop points;
when a screen frame is correctly loaded, green LEDs let operators
know they can proceed. It is part of the i-Image Series, which
includes the i-Image ST and oversize i-Image X imaging systems,
and the i-Image STE I and oversize i-Image XE imaging/exposure
systems.
Also from M&R is the Eco-Rinse, an automatic screen rinsing sys-
tem that uses simultaneous sprays from both sides of the screen
to maintain screen tension and extend screen life. M&R says it
reduces water consumption thanks to only applying the precise
amount of water needed to clean the screen – the company
reports that typically, Eco-Rinse uses less than half the water used
in manual rinsing.
Finally, M&R offers the Uni-Kote, an automatic screen coating
machine that has front and rear screen coaters that can apply
emulsion in tandem or independently.
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The Eco Rinse reduces both water consumption
and labour costs
Exile Technologies | The FreeStyler DTS
M&R | The i-Image CTS: part of a total pre-press system
According to Exile Technologies, “FreeStyler DTS is the world’s first truly af-
fordable computer-to-screen solution with a UK list price of £9,995”.
The FreeStyler uses low-cost, disposable printer cartridges that the com-
pany says contain specially developed UV-blocking black ink for enhanced UV
density (DMAX> 3.5 UV). It offers screen printers an alternative to film positives by
digitally printing the image stencil directly on to a normal emulsion-coated screen.
“After imaging, the screen is ready for immediate exposure ‘under-the-counter’ us-
ing the optional integrated Expose DTS LED exposure system, designed specifically
to compliment the FreeStyler,” comments Exile Technologies. There is no need for
glass or vacuum, and the water-based ink washes off quickly and easily along with
the unexposed emulsion.
The FreeStyler supports screen frames up to 36” x 26” (66 x 91 cm) with a
maximum 29” x 20” imaging area on screen. It also includes the ScreenMaker RIP,
which incorporates optional ‘in RIP’ separations and supports direct printing from
various graphics applications, as well as having a ‘drag and drop’ print option. Im-
ages are positioned digitally relative to the screen size via ScreenMaker’s Template
function and Exile Technologies says “registration accuracy is guaranteed via Free-
Styler’s built-in three-point registration system”.
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