Commercial print firms need equipment that delivers print quality, production speed, media flexibility, and low operating costs. Large format solvent printing systems can satisfy a variety of print requirements for businesses to produce wide-format graphics. Not all printers, however, have the same capabilities. By comparing individual models, businesses can determine which equipment is suitable for their needs based on their workload, customer expectations, and growth plans.
Three models worth evaluating are the Epson SureColor S9170, S60600, and S7170. Each has unique characteristics ranging from greater color reproduction to production-oriented sound performance and business-oriented functionality.
Three Large Format Solvent Printers for Commercial Print Businesses
Epson SureColor S9170 64-Inch Solvent Printer
The Epson SureColor S9170 is targeted at businesses that demand color precision, high-resolution text, and versatility in commercial printing. It has an 11-color UltraChrome GS3 ink system that contains red, orange and green, which adds to its ability to reproduce a color spectrum. The printer is capable of producing up to 99.5% coverage of the color range from the PANTONE Formula Guide Solid Coated 2022. Color reproduction is therefore a key factor for companies that deal with brand-sensitive graphics and have color needs.
The printer also utilizes a PrecisionCore TFP printhead with temperature sensor control for consistent output. The user-replaceable printhead can help minimize maintenance tasks, and the optional white ink assists with clear or light substrate printing needs.
When color range and production flexibility are important, these are some of the features that may make the S9170 an option for businesses looking at solvent printing equipment.
Epson SureColor S60600 64-Inch Solvent Production Printer
The Epson SureColor S60600 has been designed for commercial production. It features four-color UltraChrome GS3 solvent ink and a Dual-Array PrecisionCore TFP printhead. It has a precision media-feeding system that includes automatic tension control to ensure accurate media movement and minimize feeding errors in printing.
Another important factor to take into account is production speed. Imaging Spectrum lists production-mode speeds of up to 550 square feet per hour for banners and 310 square feet per hour for adhesive vinyl. Actual output will vary by print mode, media and job requirements. The printer also supports fast-drying inks and same-day lamination workflows, with the product information specifying approximately six hours before lamination.
The Epson SureColor S60600 64″ Solvent Production Printer is excellent to consider when businesses need recurring signage or vinyl orders, with features worth evaluating against daily output goals, finishing schedules and media needs.
Epson SureColor S7170 64-Inch Solvent Printer
A more cost-effective solution for businesses looking for high-quality wide-format prints would be the Epson SureColor S7170. It uses a four-color UltraChrome GS3 eco-solvent ink and an enhanced PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead. It also offers a 64-inch media capacity to handle a variety of wide-format production needs.
The printer accepts vinyl, PVC, mesh, photo paper and canvas (as per the requirements of the media). The 800 mL ink bottles decrease the need to change ink between print jobs, and Nozzle Verification Technology is designed to identify potential nozzle problems. These are important for print shops that have to deal with consistent output and everyday upkeep.
When considering eco-solvent printing systems, companies should always review the cost of inks, media, maintenance, and workload. For shops that demand flexibility in media handling and need a balance between productivity and investment, the S7170 may be a suitable option
See also: When Should Businesses Use IT Equipment Relocation Services?
Explore Solvent Printing Options With Imaging Spectrum
Imaging Spectrum provides printing equipment and wide format media to satisfy commercial printing requirements. The solvent media selection includes products from Avery Dennison, Epson, Kodak, Summit, and Ultraflex, ranging from adhesive media to banner and signage materials, through to film, canvas and poster media. For companies considering solvent printing, it’s possible to research ink and paper combinations and ensure they are compatible with the printer they have chosen and their intended advertising purpose. There will be a joint review of equipment and media, which will assist the buyer in making more informed purchasing decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a print shop determine whether a 64-inch printer meets its production needs?
Evaluate the standard size of jobs, production volume, time constraints and work area to see if large format solvent printing machines can satisfy the production needs.
Does faster printing always translate into higher productivity?
No. Output is also influenced by media loading, maintenance, drying and finishing. When considering solvent printing equipment, compare the whole process.
What should buyers verify before switching to eco-solvent printing?
Inquire about the compatibility of ink and media, color requirements and maintenance to ensure that eco-solvent printing is compatible with workflow.
Which production factors matter when evaluating the Epson SureColor S60600 64″ Solvent Production Printer?
Before choosing the Epson sureColor S60600 64″ solvent production printer, compare the production speeds, ink costs, media handling and finishing requirements for actual workloads.
Conclusion
Choosing the right large format solvent printing equipment requires more than comparing specifications or advertised speeds. Before deciding, businesses should consider production demand, color requirements, media compatibility, and maintenance and operating costs. The Epson SureColor S9170, S60600 and S7170 have a number of different features that can be evaluated to help businesses select the right equipment for their operations.
