Epson unleashes leaner, greener solvent printers

Epson has released a new line of SureColor S-Series solvent printers for the Australian market.

Chiefly designed for high-volume sign and display production, the SureColor SC-S50600 and SC-S70600 boast faster speeds, higher output flexibility and an improved colour gamut compared to their predecessor, the SC-30600.

Epson is claiming top production speeds of 26.8m2 per hour for the SureColor SC-70600 (using a high capacity 8 colour ink supply) and 51.8m2 per hour for the SureColor SC-50600 (in the 4 colour configuration).

Craig Heckenberg, business unit manager at Epson Australia, claimed the above speeds "far surpasses" any other solvent printer on the market.

Both printers come with a pair of patented 'Thin Film MicroPiezo' print heads with 720 nozzles per colour, support for rolls up to 40kg designed for one-person media loading and quiet, low-odour operation suitable for office environments.

Other product highlights include adjustable multi-stage media heating, an integrated air drying system, a colour LCD control panel and advanced media management suitable for unattended production.

Each printer has been constructed using laser welding on the robotic assembly line to ensure precise printing and reliable printer movement. Previously time-consuming processes such as media feed adjustments and tensioning, media and print head alignments and nozzle checks are automated on both models.

Epson is also touting the new SureColor S-Series' green credentials, courtesy of their Nickel- and Fluorine-free Solvent Ink technology, which negates the need for special ventilation or air purification systems in the place of operation.

In addition to reducing the impact on the environment, this also improves the safety of operators and staff, according to Epson.

Pricing and availability

The Epson SureColor SC-S50600 and SC-S70600 are available now through selected authorised Epson Pro Graphics resellers at prices starting from $28,995 (ex tax).

Pricing includes a full set of ink and one year warranty. Free delivery is included for sites in greater metro areas of all Australian Capital cities

Replacement inks, meanwhile, are priced from $209 per cartridge.