Mutoh and Grafityp test AQUAFUZE Ink’s wrapping potential

Mutoh Europe and Grafityp (a UPM Company) have confirmed media compatibility and mechanical performance of Mutoh’s AQUAFUZE water-based UV ink printed on Grafityp’s AE38C cast film.

The two companies performed extensive joint testing, evaluating stretch performance up to 185 per cent, tensile strength, and peel force under various lamination conditions. The results showed that AQUAFUZE delivers under complex vehicle and object wrap conditions, including deep recesses and tight curves, areas long dominated by solvent-based ink systems.

Results from the test show no sign of delamination or cracking during 3D deformation, with the ink maintaining a strong cohesion with the film and laminate, even under tensile stress. Additionally, prints could be laminated immediately after output with no waiting period required, and the film retained stability during post-heating and recovery.

“This collaboration shows that water-based ink technology can now reliably handle the more challenging wrap applications that were traditionally the domain of solvent-based printing systems,” said Markku Pietarinen, Global Product Manager, Graphics, UPM Adhesive Materials.

Mutoh and Grafityp say the findings underline the maturity of AQUAFUZE’s hybrid chemistry. This low-odour, water-based formulation blends environmental safety with high-end wrap performance. For print professionals, that means lower VOC emissions and safer working conditions without sacrificing application range or finish quality.

“With AQUAFUZE, print professionals no longer need to choose between environmental responsibility and application versatility,” added Stephan Heintjens, General Manager Applications, Service & QA at Mutoh Europe.

Both companies say the results allow them to promote thoroughly tested ink-and-media combinations for the wrap market.

The trials used Grafityp’s AE38C, a 50 µm cast film with Air Escape technology for bubble-free installation and a low-tack adhesive that allows easy repositioning. With conformability for demanding 3D surfaces and up to ten years of outdoor durability, AE38C provides a professional-grade base for more sustainable print workflows using AQUAFUZE.