Looking for someone with an HP Indigo Press

So, I have an idea for a printing venture, but the process involved requires printing on polypropylene in a manner that is efficient for very short runs, doing custom work for individuals. Looking around, the only machine that I could find that seemed to be able to fill that role was the HP Indigo line, but I'd like to be able to see how well it works for my prospective use.

Ideally, I'd like to be able to find somewhere nearby (IE, Located in Florida) where I could physically see one of the machines and how it works, but for the time being I'd be willing to settle for having samples printed and sent to me.

So, basically what I'm wanting is to, one way or another, have some samples printed on polypropylene VIA an HP Indigo press, and in my possession. Any of you fine folks have any ideas? Printing expos in the Southeastern US, businesses having said printer, etc?

 

We print on all sorts of plastics with our indigo. What thickness, specific brand, etc. do you want to print on? There are literally thousands of different plastic substrates. Just need more info. We are in MN but ship down to Florida all the time.

 

Unfortunately, I'm not as versed as I'd like to be with regard to the specifics of the various substrates. Most of my attempted research has left me with huge generalizations about sections of materials, which just doesn't cut it for me.

As far as thickness goes, probably nothing thicker than 5mil. It's important that the print be durable, as the prints would be subject to a fair deal of wear and handling. I'm not sure whether that's a matter of the substrate used, or if it has more to do with the finishing applied to it. Another matter of importance is whether or not the print/substrate can hold up to the post-run processes that I would be subjecting it to. What I'm hoping to be able to do is take the print and to affix it to a second sheet of the same substrate using a heat press, or similar method, to create a durable seam. That's the main reason why I was interested in using a kind of thermoplastic for the printing process.

I figure that it'll probably be a long, drawn-out process trying to discover what exact substrate I'd need to use (if there's even one that can suit my needs). That's kind of why I was hoping to be able to find a printer relatively close to me, to help make the process a little bit easier.

 

I am sure that there is something that would work for you. My recommendation would talk to a plastics company that can put you in the right direction then move onto the printing end and not the other way around, as it will be much cheaper. Call Tekra and see if there is anything in their lineup that would suit your needs. http://www.tekra.com This is who we use and they should be able to find the right substrate for your end purpose, then we can go about printing it.

 

I'll take a look at their line and see if I can get in touch with them to figure something out. Thanks!

On another note, what size sheets do you/can you use to print? Do you use US Standard paper sizes?

 

Hi Grentain,
Our paper size on our Indigo is a 12.5"x18.5". We also print on plastics with our waterless 5 color press and that is 19x25 format. Hope that helps. You can always call me at 651-755-2225.

Thanks,
Brian

 

Thanks, Brian!

I know that it's been some months since I last posted here, but circumstances forced me to put this project on the back-burner for a little while. I've done a little bit of research, after looking through Tekra's catalog, and found some substrates that may work for what I'm looking to do. Specifically, I'm looking at the Marnot XL Hardcoat polyester films (both the matte and clear varieties), 7mil.
http://www.tekra.com/sites/default/files/hardcoats/DS Marnot XL Matte PET.pdf
http://www.tekra.com/sites/default/files/hardcoats/DS Marnot XL Clear PET.pdf

Would you be able to contact me VIA E-Mail and let me know what it'd take for me to get some printed samples on those substrates? I would really appreciate it.

nicholas_blackie@yahoo.com

 

I took a look and it does not appear that you can print on the marnot hard coats. Maybe I am wrong. However, we would be more than willing to do a test for you if you send the material into us.

Thanks,
Brian

 

Hey there! One of our clients, Sundance, is in Orlando and has an Indigo, plus I believe they've printed our polypropylene before. I'm not sure if they can accommodate your request but worth a shot!