Print for corrugated packaging has undergone a tremendous change in the last few years. The dominance of conventional methods (such as flexography) is being challenged by the versatility, flexibility, and nimbleness of digital printing. Brands and converters are recognizing the potential of digital technology for creating relevant and bespoke packaging in a timely fashion and, more importantly, in a sustainable way.
Leading the charge is HP. Earlier this year, it introduced the HP PageWide C550 to the industrial packaging world: A next generation post-print press built on the successful field-proven technology of its C500 predecessor. The C550 offers the same true water-based inks (for food-safe packaging) and thermal inkjet system, while further enhancements include a productivity-boosting press speed of 90 linear meters per minute (versus 75 linear meters for the C500), promising high offset print-like quality Flexo and Litho packaging with no tradeoff in speed.
HP PageWide C550
In a nutshell, the C550 sets out to drive new business for HP’s customers in the corrugated industry by offering improved efficiencies, increased plant capacity, and optimal manufacturing costs for converters.
And, with installations stacking up over the coming months, it certainly looks to be a gamechanger for the corrugated converter space.
We wanted to hear all about these benefits, so Jean Lloyd, Principal Analyst in Keypoint Intelligence’s Production Group, sat down with David Tomer, General Manager of Post-Print Corrugated Solutions at HP, to discuss his thoughts on the C550 and the wider impact digital printing is having in the packaging market. They also dissect the symbiotic relationship between HP and its customers as well as how digital printing is akin to a speedboat.
It’s an informative, intriguing conversation with Tomer, whose career started as an intern with HP while studying industrial engineering and management at university, and who has been a part of the company’s digital drive ever since.
