Canon expands large format graphics production portfolio with new 3.4 metre Colorado XL-series

Print Solutions

Canon has announced the launch of the Colorado XL-series, a new platform of 3.4 metres printers that extends the advantages of UVgel technology to the larger graphics market. Available in both hybrid and roll to roll configurations, the modular, field upgradable platform powered by UVgel technology delivers great versatility and exceptional productivity for both flexible and rigid media applications from signage and décor to point of sale and packaging.

The Colorado XL-series comprises two easy to operate models: the Colorado XL7 roll-to-roll printer and Colorado XL7 hybrid printer. The new series brings the benefits of UVgel to a new market segment with exceptional application versatility across a comprehensive range of media – from banner, paper, vinyl and films to soft signage, heat sensitive materials, foam board, fluted polypropylene, acrylic, aluminium composite boards and cardboard – providing the flexibility to tackle diverse customer requirements. With print speeds of 70 m² per hour in quality mode, 106 m² per hour in production mode and up to 211m² per hour in express mode, the system delivers the productivity needed for demanding production environments while accommodating substrates up to 52 mm thick for rigid applications.

The new platform includes multiple technology innovations, such as the UVgel 860 ink set, which has been optimised to cover a wide variety of both rigid and flexible applications. It also provides the proven benefits of UVgel: odourless and instant dry prints, high mechanical and chemical robustness, dimensional stability due to low temperature curing, excellent colour consistency, TPO and VCL free, and matte and gloss finish without the need of a separate varnish.

The Colorado XL-series also incorporates new UVgel 850 printheads. Each printhead has 4544 nozzles and features automated built-in nozzle performance monitoring and compensation. A single printhead supports two colours simultaneously, so that only two printheads are required to print CMYK, plus an optional third printhead if white is configured. Additionally, the Colorado XL series has an agile and precise printhead carriage that features UVgel DynamicMotion Control to ensure exceptional print quality even with challenging media. 

Taking the UV-LED curing process to the next level, the Colorado XL-series introduces UVgel FullBeam Curing. This technology uses a 3.4 metre wide LED curing array that, combined with an ingenious mirror system, delivers consistent UV light dosing across the entire print width, guaranteeing exceptional print uniformity over large surfaces and enabling a wider colour gamut. Media handling is optimised by the new UVgel Tridrive vacuum belt system, which features three interactive rollers and multiple powerful vacuum zones that reduce wrinkling and skewing by automatically detecting and correcting the media positioning. This results in highly repeatable media transport through the printer, ensuring accurate positioning both longitudinally and laterally and enabling razor sharp applications.

Duncan Smith, country director, production at Canon UK and Ireland, commented: ‘For the past decade, Canon has been at the forefront of the inkjet evolution in large format, with market leading technologies including the Colorado roll to roll printer series powered by UVgel technology and the Arizona flatbed printers. Large format print providers are looking for systems that deliver high productivity, versatile applications and reliable quality while addressing the challenge of finding skilled operators – which is why Canon is launching our new, breakthrough Colorado XL-series, an addition to our portfolio that will set a new standard in productivity and versatility. 

‘This innovative solution brings the proven advantages of our unique UVgel technology to the 3.2 metre market for the first time, combining it with extensive automation and a modular design that will enable customers to extend their application possibilities into markets such as packaging and décor. Print service providers already producing high value signage and graphics can now leverage UVgel's distinctive finishes, including mixed gloss and matte effects and textured printing, at scale to stand out in these new markets. And with its hybrid capabilities, users can print both roll to roll and rigid applications on the same device, using the same ink, the same colour profiles and the same unique features and finishes. For brands, for example, this translates to seamless campaigns that span the full spectrum of applications, ensuring perfect consistency across campaign assets whether they are roll fed graphics, rigid signage, packaging, or décor elements. This is particularly valuable when these different applications appear side by side in-store, where maintaining that consistent quality and finish elevates the entire brand experience that today's brands demand.’

The Colorado XL-series will be available from the beginning of 2026 via direct sales organisations as well as from accredited partners.