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CoverUp opted for the new, 3.4m-wide model, which was only handed its debut at the FESPA Global Print Expo 2018 in May.

The latest machine is a dispersed dye ink printer that builds on the original 340 with the addition of a heated platen and vapour extractor for inline fixation of direct-printed textiles. EFI says the device not only offers high speed printing at all quality levels, but uses less floor space than would be required with separate printing and sublimation stations.

Anthony Byrne, operations director at CoverUp, has only positive things to say about the new purchase from EFI, citing the combination of quality at high speed and inline heat fixation as key reasons behind the purchase.

Byrne says: “Quite honestly, we were struggling before EFI showed it to us. We looked at some other direct textile printers, but some needed a separate calendar unit, which doesn't really suit our needs in business.

At a demonstration in Italy we found this model created the best quality, especially when printing solid colours”

“At a demonstration in Italy we found this model created the best quality, especially when printing solid colours.”

Founded in 1976, CoverUp began life specialising in making PVC-nylon fitted covers, for machinery, boats, vehicles and industrial plants. However, after a number of local companies started sending large-format printed banners to be finished on the same equipment, Coverup in 2004 opted to move into print and began offering this as a trade service.

Byrne explains: “We sell to other printers, mainly, who don't have such large machines as ours.”

Such has been the success of the venture that CoverUp now operates across two sites in Dublin— Sandyford and Clondalkin—employing 16 people.

CoverUp’s new VUTEk FabriVU, its first purchase from EFI, will be placed at the facility in Clondalkin, with the intention of adding capacity to its existing line-up of UV-cure and dye-sublimation printers.

We sell to other printers, mainly, who don't have such large machines as ours”

The company intends to primarily use the machine for direct-to-textile printing of flags and banners, but the firm also plans to explore how else the device can be used to bring in new business, citing garment work as a strong possibility.

This purchase may prove to be a shrewd piece of business by CoverUp, with the firm having already set its sights on other industry sectors in which it can make progress with the use of the VUTEk FabriVU.

Direct-to-textile printing is cited as one of the key growth areas at present for print companies around the world, and with the possible move into garment work, this could set up CoverUp for a busy, but successful, future.

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