EFI launches Cretaprint Hybrid Ecosystem at Ceramics China

Ceramic tile producers seeking to solidify their long-term success in digital decoration have a remarkable new option from EFI with its newly-launched Cretaprint Hybrid Ecosystem.

EFI’s solution for ceramic tile decoration is on show at the Ceramics China tradeshow in Guangzhou this week.

The EFI Cretaprint Hybrid Ecosystem enables switching between eco-solvent and water-friendly inks for a reliable and versatile long-term investment, giving users greater versatility in their tile production operations, using EFI Cretaprint printers that can easily transition to water-based ink.

“A simple cleaning protocol and a quick software update are all that is required to move to water-based inks at any time,” said Jose Luis Ramón Moreno, vice president and general manager, EFI Industrial Printing. “This means users can invest in a technology that is proven, competitive, and will be able to move with the market moves to more sustainable tile decoration processes.”

The EFI Cretaprint Hybrid Ecosystem is a comprehensive solution that includes: 

- EFI Cretaprint Hybrid printers: the first hybrid ceramic tile printers in the market, available with printing widths from 700 to 1400 mm with up to 12 printing bars. They are part of the 5th generation of Cretaprint Smart Printers for Ceramics, providing excellent connectivity and a great user experience thanks to applications such as a tone adjustment system, fine-tuning control, nozzle out compensation, ID printing, a supervisory control and data acquisition printer management system and the EFI Go mobile app for remote printer monitoring.

- EFI water-friendly ceramic inks containing water solvent. These unique, water-based ink sets deliver strong performance in industrial production environments, while providing environmental benefits such as a 90% reduction in VOC emissions and a 73% reduction in carbon emissions. Plus, the inks do not require using chemical solvents when cleaning the press. The inks produce accurate, high-quality colour for reduced waste and rework.

- The EFI Fiery proServer for Cretaprint, the digital front end that pioneered colour management for tile decoration, helping make the transition to water-friendly technology smooth, and ensure ink savings.

- Configurable service programs for technical assistance and preventive maintenance that allow tile manufacturers to receive the services that best fit their equipment at a flat rate.