Wide-format printer manufacturer Mutoh Europe and leading self-adhesive media supplier Grafityp, part of UPM, announce the successful validation of AQUAFUZE water-based UV ink in combination with professional-grade AE38C cast media for vehicle and object wrapping applications. This joint technical initiative confirms that AQUAFUZE, Mutoh’s low-odour hybrid ink technology, is fully suited for demanding 3D wrapping scenarios, including conforming to deep recesses and curves.
Comprehensive testing — conducted jointly by both companies — demonstrated excellent media compatibility and mechanical performance. The tests included stretch performance up to 185%, tensile strength evaluation, and peel force measurements under different lamination timings.
“This collaboration shows that water-based ink technology can now reliably handle the more challenging wrap applications that were traditionally the domain of solvent-based printing systems,” said Markku Pietarinen, Global Product Manager, Graphics, UPM Adhesive Materials.
Key test observations:
- No delamination or ink cracking, even in 3D deformation.
- Strong ink cohesion with simultaneous break of the film/ink/laminate sandwich under tensile stress.
- Lamination possible immediately after printing — No need for dwell time.
- Excellent resilience under post-heating and film memory recovery processes.
Mutoh and Grafityp both see this as a milestone for more sustainable ink technology. AQUAFUZE combines the safety of water-based chemistry with the performance expected in high-demand wrap jobs—making it suitable for print professionals seeking safer, low-VOC working conditions.
“With AQUAFUZE, print professionals no longer need to choose between environmental responsibility and application versatility,” said Stephan Heintjens, General Manager Applications, Service & QA, Mutoh Europe.
This technical validation provides a solid foundation for both companies to jointly communicate proven wrapping solutions based on thoroughly tested ink and media combinations.
The test with Aquafuze was printed on Grafityp’s AE38C, a cast film that has proven itself in the market as a well-known and highly rated solution for demanding applications. Combining a thin 50 µm profile with Air Escape technology for bubble-free application and a low-tack adhesive for easy repositioning, AE38C offers exceptional conformability to complex shapes and up to 10 years of outdoor durability, making it a trusted partner for high-end projects with more sustainable inks.
