Dublin-based print firm CoverUp has added a EFI Matan 5m UV LED roll-to-roll printer from CMYUK to its line-up. In 2022, the firm acquired an EFI VUTEk Q5r, also from CMYUK, which has significantly boosted its production efficiency allowing for faster turnaround times and greater volumes. It joins a plant list that includes a 3.2m UV LED digital flatbed printer, dye sublimation technology, CNC router and a digital cutting table.

The Matan 5 replaces an older HP printer and is designated for all CoverUp’s mesh printing needs. “We decided to dedicate the Matan 5 to mesh because it’s a challenging material that tends to create a lot of overspray,” says Anthony Byrne, Operations Director at CoverUp. “This way, we avoid exposing the Q5r to any of these issues.”

CoverUp was the first in the world to purchase an EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340i in-line dye sublimation printer in 2018, when it replaced an M-Tex printer. Over the years the firm, which is one of the country’s largest finishers of banners and building wraps in Ireland, has built a trusted relationship with CMYUK for its materials supply, so when it came to purchasing a new EFI VUTEk Q5r, there was never any doubt about where to go.

When looking for a printer dedicated to mesh work, Anthony contacted Sue Hayward (Commercial Director, CMYUK) for some advice. He didn’t have the budget for a new model, but wondered whether CMYUK had something to offer from its ex-demonstration, second users or refurbished large format printing equipment. Sue located a refurbished Matan 5 printer from EFI and arranged an online virtual demonstration for Anthony, given the printer was in Israel. After witnessing its impressive performance with mesh, Anthony immediately decided to purchase it. A fast installation was crucial, so CMYUK delivered and installed the printer in five weeks.

On-site training went very smoothly. “We were well up with it since the RIP was the same as the one used by the Q5r, so there wasn’t much new to learn. We just had to get used to the loading and cleaning processes. By the end of the first day, we were operational and even started printing specific jobs. When it comes to maintenance, mesh requires more frequent filter changes due to its messier nature. Other than that, the maintenance is pretty much the same as the Q5r,” he says.

The EFI Matan 5 offers output up to 353 sq m per hour with a true resolution of 600dpi. It supports a portfolio of Matan optional features and software, which can transform it into an all-in-one multi-purpose printer. Additionally, a single operator roll loader maximises efficiency by 300%, ensuring that only 40cm of material is wasted per roll, boosting savings and overall productivity. “After installing the Matan 5, the speed of our mesh output work has tripled. Previously we were managing two rolls a day, but now can complete five to six,” says Anthony.

The investment has enabled CoverUp to expand its customer base and enhance throughput speed. “With the addition of the Matan 5 to our production, we anticipate this positive trend going forward. We’re pleased to serve as a dynamic print supplier to the trade, operating behind the scenes. Furthermore, our extensive finishing services guarantee that we can meet all customer requirements comprehensively.”