Small flatbed recommendation.

[bigben]

I own a large format printing business for about 15 years now. We do roll-to-roll and laser cutting/engraving. We specialize mostly in interior signage.

I'm looking for a small flatbed printer that have white + varnish capabilities and could print up to 6in thick material. From what I've found, a A3 size or similar would be enough.

My first taught was looking at big brand like mimaki but saw interesting models sold in China. I'm not sure I would trust the latest, but the price is very interesting.

So I'm looking to have recommendation and feedback on those kind of printer. What kind of surprise or problems I could/will run on a daily basis. All new machines I've bought had a learning curve and some details I would liked to know before buying them. I'm trying to do the most educated purchase to avoid surprises.

Thanks for your help.

 

[MarkSnelling]

check out Roland. They have a few UV flatbeds in smaller formats which can print on very thick items. www.RolandDGA.com

 

[Smoke_Jaguar]

Big fan of the Mimaki UJF-6042 MKII as they are really common on the used market and built like tanks. Aftermarket ink is as low as $70 a liter and they use good industrial heads instead of the ancient DX4 Epson heads. Plus, WAY faster than a Roland.