German digital print specialist MPrint has partnered with surface treatment expert Vetaphone as part of its development programme into digital cold foil application.

Founded by Michael Morlock in 1999 and part of the Leonhard Kurz Group since 2019, MPrint, based in Baiersbronn, Germany, manufactures digital inkjet technology across a range of applications, including direct-to-shape printing, cards, tickets, mailings, packaging, labels, and roll-to-roll products such as tissue, fleece and napkins.

MPrint’s digital print engines can be supplied as standalone systems or integrated into existing narrow web lines up to 540mm wide (and up to 1080mm for special configurations). The company’s approach is to combine the strengths of analogue production with the flexibility of digital printing for late-stage customisation.

According to David van Loo, MPrint’s sales and marketing manager, the main challenge in developing digital cold foil transfer was achieving perfect registration between digital print and analogue foil. “The issue is with the adhesive applied to the reverse side of the foil, which then needs to be overlaid in perfect register,” he explained. “A perfect finish requires perfect adhesion, which in the case of expensive foil that is non-absorbent, demands high-quality corona that can be accurately controlled.”

Following a detailed evaluation of suppliers, Vetaphone was selected for its expertise in corona treatment technology. The collaboration has since evolved into a close working partnership focused on innovation and precision.

The need for corona treatment is central to MPrint’s MJET range of standalone label solutions, MPrint explained. These include the MJET eco, a single-colour UV-LED unit designed for late-stage customisation of pre-produced, embellished, and die-cut labels, commonly used in the wine industry. The MJET basic and plus models extend the range with modular configurations offering up to four-colour printing plus white and various finishing options.

At the top of the range is the Mlabel 3, a five-colour UV-LED inkjet label press with white ink, finishing modules, and digital metal embellishment capability. With a 324mm web width, 600dpi resolution, and production speeds of up to 75m/min, it provides a compact, high-performance solution for digital label production.

Ahmed Türkmen, sales manager at Vetaphone, commented: “It is always a pleasure to work with a manufacturer that shares our commitment to innovation and continuous development. There is a natural synergy between Vetaphone and MPrint that benefits both companies and their customers.”