Both devices use the same HP 792 latex inks that are used in HP’s larger LX series and feature an enhancement to allow double-sided applications.
Joan Pericot, worldwide marketing director for HP’s Large Format Print division, cited the use of the new ink as a “major enhancement” for the Designjet range.
It is said to enable richer blacks and a glossier finish, while also featuring improved water resistance that is needed for fabric and textile applications.
In addition, HP’s new double-sided printing workflow allied with an Optical Media Advance Sensor (OMAS) on the printer enables double-sided printing with minimal operator intervention.
The OMAS controls registration automatically by locating a registration mark when the printed media is reloaded to print the reverse side.
Both printers feature a more robust take-up reel than the L25500, which will now be discontinued, with the L26500 capable of up to 40kg reel capacity and the L28500 capable of up to 100kg, thereby allowing longer unattended operation.
The 2.64m-wide L28500 is also between 34% (on the same print width) and 70% faster (when printing at full width) than the L25500, due in part to a faster carriage speed.
The maximum print speed of the L28500 is 40sqm/hr in four-pass mode, versus 22.8sqm/hr on the L26500; in 16-pass mode the print speed falls to 8sqm/hr and 6.3sqm/hr, respectively.
Both printers are compatible with more than 500 substrates, including HP’s new double-sided HDPE reinforced banner material.
Other offerings launched in the Scitex range includes the 5m XP5500, the 3.2m XP2500, which delivers 15% more throughput than its predecessor, and the FB7600 industrial press.
According to HP, the company has installed more than 9,000 latex printers worldwide while more than 44 million square metres of media had been printed using its latex print range.
HP also announced the online HP Latex University, which it said contains a wealth of content on how to produce a wide range of indoor and outdoor wide format graphic applications using HP latex technology.
The digital manufacturer also introduced a free eco-training programme to teach print service providers how to communicate the environmental benefits.
This article originally appeared at printweek.com
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