The P5 X stands out for its ability to combine two types of printing: true flatbed and roll-to-roll. This dual functionality enables printers to diversify their output without investing in two separate pieces of equipment. This opens up prospects for a wide range of applications, from visual communications to decoration and specialized packaging. For companies wishing to evolve, the P5 X can be upgraded in the future to incorporate additional capabilities.
True flatbed and roll-to-roll are two distinct printing technologies, each offering specific advantages for different types of production.
The true flatbed system refers to a printer configuration where the substrate to be printed remains fixed on a vacuum table while the print head moves over it. This technology is particularly suitable for direct printing on rigid materials such as wood, glass, metal or PVC panels. The main advantage of true flatbed is printing precision and the ability to handle substrates of varying sizes and thicknesses without risk of distortion or displacement.
Roll-to-roll, on the other hand, is a technology where the printer is designed to print on continuous flexible media, such as rolls of paper, textile, vinyl or plastic film. The media is unwound from one roll, printed, then wound onto a second roll, enabling continuous printing over long lengths. This technology is ideal for large-scale jobs such as banners, posters, textiles or wall coverings.
One of the great strengths of the P5 X is its precision of movement, made possible by the integration of magnetic linear motors on the X and Y axes. This technology ensures reliable, precise movement across the entire work surface, even at high speeds. What's more, the vacuum table, with its 12 selectable zones, guarantees optimum material clamping while facilitating rapid removal thanks to a reverse vacuum function.
Nor has Durst neglected safety and ergonomics. The machine is equipped with light curtains that slow down printing in the event of interruption, providing added protection for operators. LED indicators ensure correct media positioning, while magnetic spindles simplify installation.
One of the highlights of the P5 X is the ability to customize color configurations to suit production needs. With 10 channels available, the machine can be configured with CMYK, white, fluo, orange, violet inks, and varnish and primer options, allowing maximum project flexibility. This diversity of options makes the P5 X particularly suitable for applications requiring specific visual effects, while maintaining high productivity.
Twin Printing mode, which enables simultaneous printing on two sides with no waiting time, and Reverse Printing, which offers single-pass printing with white over and under print, are just two examples of the innovations integrated into the P5 X to maximize productivity. With speeds of up to 120 m²/hour, this machine is an efficient choice for high value-added production.
Aware of the competition from players such as swissQprint, Durst CEO Christoph Gamper nevertheless asserts that this new model will enable customers to enter the Durst world, with the possibility of upgrading as their needs evolve. This strategic approach is in line with Durst's desire to broaden its customer base, while maintaining a high level of quality.
