ASG Spark take packaging prototypes to a new level with the S-Series

Packaging leader ASG Spark has upgraded its Roland printing system to a new VersaUV S-Series wide-format UV printer, meaning it can print onto a virtually unlimited variety of materials and objects.

ASG, which recently united with the global design and solutions expert Spark to form ASG Spark connecting their teams, workflows and systems, had been using a Roland VersaUV LEC-330 UV printer/cutter to print packaging prototypes for eight years. This was installed at its Slough site with the initial intention of producing a specific kind of design, but the quality of its print meant it was soon put to work in other areas.

ASG Spark provides services and solutions for major brands in the fields of home entertainment, gaming, beauty, home electronics, wines and spirits and more. The team is already working on retail work for Christmas 2019, using the new Roland VersaUV LEC-330S-B150, a UV belt printer, to create fully detailed scale models of large POS displays.

"We tried similar printers from many other brands but found the quality just wasn't as good as the Roland."

In February 2018 the design team decided to upgrade the printer to a new Roland VersaUV LEC-330S-B150, from the substantial and powerful S-Series. This next-generation UV-LED belt printer, installed at ASG Spark with a table, can print CMYK, white and gloss onto virtually any substrate or object – rigid, roll-to-roll and flexible – up to 200mm in height and 100kg/sqm in weight.

Karl Ballard, Senior Prepress & Systems Technician, explains: "We tried similar printers from many other brands but found the quality just wasn't as good as the Roland. In fact, after the LEC was installed we found its detail and quality was as good as production and perfect for packaging mock-ups; we can produce many special effects with dimensional coating. We could create the mock-ups easily and improve turnaround times, which in turn improved the relationship with our customers."

He adds: "On the new LEC-330S-B150 we can print onto any substrate we like, from laminated metallic boards to golf balls. We can also print directly onto boxes, changing our workflow, and it allows us to print lots of special effects with higher built-up textures and exact registration.

"The printer has maintained our core business, helping us adapt to new demands. It's a brilliant piece of equipment for our business."

Karl also notes that the print experts at Roland's Creative Centre in Clevedon have provided support and hands-on help from the beginning. For more information on ASG Spark, contact Lance Blizzard or visit www.sparkbrighterthinking.com.