Mutoh & Grafityp confirm compatibility of AQUAFUZE™ Ink with professional cast media for wrapping applications.

Oostende, Belgium – Mutoh Europe and Grafityp (part of UPM) announce the successful validation of the Mutoh HydrAton 1642, powered by Fujifilm’s AQUAFUZE™ water-based UV inks, in combination with professional-grade AE38C cast media for vehicle and object wrapping applications. This joint technical programme confirms suitability for demanding 3D wrapping scenarios, including deep recesses and complex 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.

Trademarks: AQUAFUZE is a trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation. Other company names or product names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.