New flatbed advise

[Kent T.]

Did you learn much about the Mimaki?


Hi, were thought we may be sold on the Oce 460Gt ( choose over CET Q5 ) but then got thrown a curveball about the MimakiJFX200. Did you do much research on that one? Have anything to share about it? We are looking for more quality that speed. We are into printing more themed art styles on acrylic, alum substrates and faux finishes/textured materials. We do work for themed entertainment parks, casinos, etc. Also some backlit light up signs as well. We usually farm our stuff out for silkscreen or direct print. Any info would help what you have acquired in your research.
Thanks much.
-Joe

For your type of work.. go with Oce printer which is in my opinion a better choice. However the Mimaki is ..half the price of the OCE.
The build quality of the Mimaki is not solid like the Oce. Also the Mimaki menu is not quite logical to me.. for example to move the gantry you have to accessing the VIEW menu.
Here are something I don't about the Mimaki:
- Depend on ink configuration the Mimaki will be slower than the Oce
- The print heads on Mimaki are extruded out while on the Oce the heads are recessed 1mm. When you have a head strike chance are you will be OK with the Oce and good luck on the Mimaki.
- No ink degas unit on the JFX200 ( it has build-in on the higher model).. Some technicians may argue on this point but I have not seen any mention of a degas unit on the JFX200 brochure. This function help eliminate missing nozzle while printing..hence less redo.
- One thing really bug me on the Mimaki is the way it move the gantry or setting the head postion. It take way tooooo looooong. Good for cookies printing but a hassle for custom work.
A a few things that I remember. Hope it help you to make the right decision.