Acrylics specialist discovers hidden dimensions of Roland’s S-series

Print Solutions

Acrylic display specialist Floreeda Fabrications chose a new Roland DG VersaUV S-Series LEJ-640S for its new, larger premises for its print quality and generous head height, but soon discovered this UV-LED printer could add a new dimension to its work – literally.

Based in Stockport, Floreeda was founded in 1990 by Alun and Jill Jones. This family business – a specialist in manufacturing bespoke acrylic point of sale displays for retail and exhibitions – is now managed by son Paul Jones and supported by daughter Jaqui, who joined Floreeda two years ago.

The company uses a range of laser cutters and initially outsourced any printing work that was required. Around three years ago Floreeda opted to bring these jobs in-house, first choosing a Roland VersaUV LEF-20 UV flatbed printer.

‘We looked at a printer from another manufacturer but liked that the Roland VersaUV was enclosed and were impressed by the print samples,’ said Paul Jones. ‘We were immediately really pleased with how well it was working.’

In July 2018, Floreeda invested in a larger printer from supplier Grafityp– the Roland VersaUV S-Series LEJ-640S – along with a large laser cutting system to create an overall more efficient production set up. In the autumn the company relocated to a new premises.

‘We were very happy with the Roland LEF-20 so decided to stick with the brand,’ explained Paul. ‘We chose the new VersaUV S-Series flatbed because of the print quality, the vacuum assisted positioning and the high head height – we can print onto materials up to 200 mm thick so can produce a big range of work including signage.’

But Paul says it was whilst experimenting with the S-Series that the Floreeda team discovered another valuable benefit: its ability to print incredible textures and special effects directly to materials such as acrylic. As a result, the company has recently completed a project for a fashion retailer, producing acrylic retail displays with a three-dimensional concrete effect texture.

The Roland S-Series builds on the innovative UV-LED technology used in the established VersaUV printing systems, with a greater size and functionality. These heavy duty printers can handle virtually any material or object, both flexible or rigid, up to 200 mm in height and 100 kg per square metre in weight.

Running Roland Eco-UV or Eco-UV S inks including punchy CMYK, white and gloss, these systems can print vibrant colours, sharp monochromes and even intricate textures like embossing and Braille easily. From multiple small items such as phone cases to large bespoke pieces like surfboards, the VersaUV S-Series flatbed and roll fed printers – available in a range of size options – offer the ultimate in versatility.

Paul and the team are looking forward to attending a course at the Roland Academy. He said, ‘We want to learn how to get the most out of the new S-Series – we have plans to do much more with it.’