Sun Chemical has released its first primer approved for HP Indigo digital presses used in label applications. The new water-based primer, SunEvo EV-LWR09 WB LEP Primer Labels, is designed specifically for HP Indigo’s Inline Priming Unit (ILP) and is compatible with HP Indigo 6X00, 6K, 6K+, 8X00, and 8K presses.
The primer will be introduced across the EMEA region beginning in the fourth quarter of 2025, with a phased rollout planned to ensure local support in each market.
Developed in collaboration with HP, the primer underwent a qualification process that included testing by several European label converters. These tests covered a range of substrates and production environments. UK-based label printer Label Apeel was among the companies involved in the trials, running the primer on two HP Indigo presses. The company reported consistent results across various materials, including reliable performance during finishing processes.
The primer is compatible with a broad set of substrates, including PE, PP, coated and uncoated papers, metallised materials, and wine label stocks. This makes it suitable for digital label printers working with multiple SKUs and material types.
In addition to its material versatility, the SunEvo primer is designed for high-volume production. It supports lower coat weights and requires less voltage for corona treatment, helping to reduce energy use and minimise potential damage to sensitive media. It also offers resistance to yellowing, a known issue with some primer chemistries.
According to Sun Chemical, the product forms part of a longer-term roadmap aimed at expanding its digital product offerings for HP Indigo users in the label and packaging sector.
Pete Saunders, global director of digital business, Sun Chemical, commented: “The launch reflects the strong collaboration between HP and Sun Chemical to provide a flexible primer solution for the packaging community. Our new primer offers customers choice and performance, one solution to meet their label printing needs, all while boosting productivity and remaining cost-efficient.”
