KEY INNOVATION STORIES
Transforming Sign Graphics
Transforming Sign Graphics
Shaped by technological developments, the need to diversify applications and the more recent calls for improved sustainability, the Sign Graphics industry has undergone plenty of change over the years. Since 1975, Mimaki has been a significant part of this change, developing technology that meets the evolving needs of the market and anticipating industry trends with pioneering solutions that transformed print production.
The Mimaki JV3-130S
In 2002, Mimaki released the JV3-130S, the world’s first high-production eco-solvent inkjet printer that transformed the Sign Graphics market.
As businesses started to migrate from analogue to digital printing, the JV3-130S enabled them to produce high-quality signage, while ensuring a safer environment for operators, with the eco-solvent inks minimising harmful substances emitted by traditional solvent printers.
The Mimaki UJV-160
By the tail end of the decade, UV printing was gaining traction, but most technologies still relied on high energy consumption mercury lamps. So, in 2008, Mimaki launched one of the first UV LED roll-to-roll printers, the UJV-160.
As UV LED printing requires no curing and drying, this eliminated the need for a resource-intensive curing heater, significantly reducing energy consumption and simplifying the entire process. This instant-curing capability also allows for printing on heat-sensitive materials, broadening application possibilities.
Where Are We Today?
Today, both eco-solvent and UV LED are industry standards for the Sign Graphics industry – constantly being innovated to align with market needs, especially as sustainable printing becomes more widely adopted by printers worldwide.
Mimaki’s UJV-160 set a standard for UV LED printers at the time, and today, Mimaki’s UJV Series continues to push energy efficiency to the maximum, with the ability to reduce energy usage by 90% due to the lack of a curing heater. The UJV100-160, for example, has the lowest energy consumption in its class, consuming only one-third of the power compared to typical resin inkjet printers. In fact, minimising the thermal aspects of UV printing has not only saved energy but also extends the lifespan of printheads, reducing waste.
Meanwhile, eco-solvent technology retains its appeal, operating with low running costs, while still producing vibrant, quality prints, with high durability for outdoor use.
Mimaki’s certified inks
Mimaki’s UV and eco-solvent inks have achieved GREENGUARD and GREENGUARD Gold certifications, validating that they have met the world’s most stringent standards for low emissions of VOCs.
This comprehensive approach—integrating advanced technology, eco-friendly inks, and optimised processes—demonstrates how innovation can transform environmental challenges into opportunities for success in the printing industry.
The award winning UJV100-160Plus
Having won the “Best Roll-to-Roll Printer Less Than 170cm” award from the European Digital Press (EDP) Association, 2024, the new and highly competitive UJV100-160Plus UV printer is an absolute game changer.
Inheriting the strong features of the UJV100-160, this Plus model comes with three additional functions to not only expand the range of applications, but also reduce running costs and improve work efficiency. With Rasterlink7’s new ink saving feature, you can easily reduce ink consumption while maintaining color tones.
Mimaki is Transforming Sign Graphics
Mimaki continues to grow both portfolios to ensure that businesses have the right solutions to move towards sustainable production, whatever their budget or priorities are. With growing awareness of the impact that we have on the environment and rapidly evolving regulations to meet net-zero emissions, the industry is moving quickly in favour of eco-friendly, energy efficient production methods. Mimaki continues to be a leading provider of these solutions – committed to the development of technology that will allow businesses to produce quality sign and graphic applications in a responsible way.
Mimaki’s Print Different campaign traces Mimaki’s past, present and future of innovation and transformation across the past 50 years, to build a more sustainable and forward-thinking printing industry. Click here to read more about what Mimaki is doing for the Textile and Customisation sector.
What Sustainability Means To Us
Innovation
Developing solutions that minimise environmental impact.
Operation
Implementing policies that improve efficiency and reduce waste.
Community
Supporting our communities to create positive social impact.
Ready to print different?
Connect with our experts to discover how Mimaki’s sustainable printing solutions can help transform your business. Whether you’re looking to reduce water use, cut energy consumption, or minimize waste, we’re here to help.
