Founder of IM GROUP, Inkmaker recently installed its advanced P-Series Intelligent Dispensing System for water-based inks, specifically designed for flexographic printing, at VISA Inchiostri in Pavia, Italy.

The new P32 water-based line marks Inkmaker’s second installation at VISA Inchiostri, following the success of its acclaimed GT36 model. Part of the P-Series, this installation operates on IM GROUP’s proprietary software—a user-friendly platform crafted for seamless integration with standard ERP & MRP systems, supporting both Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) and Computer-Automated Manufacturing (CAM), and ensuring highly accurate mixing during dispensing, with full compatibility across major spectrophotometers.

The P-Series boasts several unique features

  • Dispensing Capacity: The P-Series dosing head processes up to 32 colourants and additives, producing 25-litre pails automatically, with flexibility for containers ranging from 20-litre pails to 1-ton units.
  • Efficiency & Precision: Dual-scale output achieves 20 litres every four minutes. The 30kg scale reads up to 1g, while the 1,500kg scale has readability up to 2g, ensuring accuracy across diverse production needs.
  • 3-Stage Valve Technology: Multi-stage valves (available in configurations of 32, 48, 72, or 96) adjust automatically, delivering rapid, precise dispensing via a unique 3-stage valve opening with pulsation dispensing.

The P-Series system accommodates both water and solvent-based products, with CE – ATEX I| 2 G / IECEx Certification for safety and compliance. It also includes full formula registration, processing history, and customisable dosage parameters to optimise production. Powered by Intelligent Technology, the system features 20 pumps tailored for flexo inks, especially for food packaging.

Notable new features include Barcode/QR-code scanning, an automated stirring system for spot-colour mixing, and Inkmaker’s Optimised-Recycle Management system, which ensures efficient waste reuse through its “Just-In-Time” and “Just-Enough” dispensing standards. The system at VISA Inchiostri was specifically customised to adapt to varying pail sizes and IBC containers, highlighting the P-Series’ flexibility and productivity.

“The P-Series Intelligent Dispensing System is Inkmaker’s flagship solution for maximum efficiency and output”, said Alessandro Tallone, Area Sales Manager for Italy at IM GROUP. “Together with Inkmaker’s GT36, installed here in 2021, this equipment empowers VISA to maintain its leadership in high-performance flexo inks. We thank VISA for their continued partnership and look forward to future collaborations.”

VISA Inchiostri, a leading manufacturer and distributor of inks and materials for hygienic plastics and food packaging, has over 30 years of expertise and provides customisable solutions, including colouring pastes, dispersions, and specialty coatings across Italy. Its certifications, including ISO 9001 and OK Compost TÜV AUSTRIA (compliant with European standard EN 13432:2000), affirm its commitment to quality and sustainability.

“This is the second IM GROUP system that VISA has invested in over the past five years”, said Massimo Tommasini, Director of VISA Inchiostri. “Inkmaker’s dispensing accuracy, software capabilities, and system reliability are unmatched, and we are already considering an expansion into another line.”