On June 13, 2019, the Nilpeter USA Technology Center hosted the first co-sponsored Open House by Nilpeter and SCREEN Americas. More than 80 guests and partners were welcomed by SCREEN Americas President, Ken Ingram, and Nilpeter USA Managing Director, Lenny Degirolmo. The two leaders shared their vision of the partnership, and the common sense approach of bringing digital and conventional offerings together to provide a powerful solution for its customers.

Joined by many industry co-suppliers and educators, guests had the opportunity to learn more about what these technologies offer, and more importantly, how to integrate them into their workflows in order to maximize output through added automation – streamlining operations and improving efficiencies. These sophisticated technologies allow company partners to modernize their facilities and overcome workforce challenges by investing in new technology.

Multiple presentations were given by leading suppliers that support the printing and converting process from order entry to finishing. Avery Dennison started out by sharing new innovations in substrates and top-coats that directly impact the digital UV InkJet market space. Techkon gave an insightful presentation on “Running to Color”, inline color measurement solutions through automated measurement devices that can provide direct feedback to the printer. On the embellishment side, Color Logic shared their solutions for metallic embellishment utilizing colour management techniques on foils and reflective materials to create the most appealing packaging. Automation through the entire workflow is a key step for improving efficiencies, and One Vision gave a great presentation on how to automate workflow and prepress processes by utilizing the latest software solutions.

Nilpeter USA also presented and debuted the all-new REFINE Finishing offline modular finishing and converting line. This offering gained a lot of interest with guests. Its simplicity and technically advanced operations, as well as a very cost-effective solution for offline finishing and converting, was met with wide eyes. Nilpeter USA and SCREEN Americas representatives are very excited to add this product to the program.

Some of the most rewarding information of the day revolved around industry trends and consumer demands. Gary Walton from Cincinnati State University gave a high-energy presentation on workforce challenges and how to overcome them. A new program called “Friends of Print” has been established for industry professionals to engage and increase the awareness of the printing and packaging markets to a new workforce. NAPCO media’s Nathan Safran provided an in-depth research study of the digital market space, brand owner requirements, and consumer trends. The study effectively broke down each digital technology, uncovering strengths and weaknesses. This presentation provided exceptional information to converters, allowing them to make educated equipment decisions for their business models.

After a very filling working lunch and a lot of networking amongst all, it was time to see the hardware in action. It did not disappoint. Prior to press demonstrations, Nilpeter USA provided tours of the factory, showcasing their journey through automation and big data control. The new Nilpeter operations have been very well-received by all partners, who see the clear advantages and efficiencies of investing in automating workflows. Next up was a full demonstration of the Nilpeter FA platform, showcasing to partners the platform of the future as well as the clean-hand solutions utilized as the base of the company’s digital hybrid offerings. Following this, Nilpeter USA partners, SCREEN Americas, gave a very intuitive presentation on the complete workflow of the PANORAMA DP3+ offering, and all the flexibility on offer. Visitors were provided a clear explanation on the stand-alone, near-line converting, offline converting, and full hybrid solutions. As an added bonus, presentations from earlier in the day had provided all the information necessary, to help them determine the proper solution for their needs.

Finally, full demonstrations of the REFINE Compact unit took place. The Compact unit was an eye catcher for all involved. It offers as much if not more flexibility than many other competitive units at a fraction of the cost. Nilpeter USA is already seeing good activity with this technology.

All in all the co-sponsored Open House was a very successful and rewarding day. The companies received nothing but positive feedback, good comments on the presentations, facilities, equipment, and alignment of the Nilpeter USA and SCREEN Americas teams. Combining resources along with the support of key industry suppliers will allow Nilpeter USA and SCREEN Americas to build brand recognition as the leaders in the Digital UV InkJet market space, with focus on innovation and printing technologies.

A member of the SCREEN Americas Team gave a very intuitive presentation on the complete workflow of the Nilpeter PANORAMA DP3+ offering.