Roland DG has established a strong reputation in the wide-format digital printing industry through its versatile printers suited for a range of applications. Their lineup includes eco-solvent printer-cutters, UV-LED printers, and even dye-sublimation devices—each built to meet diverse user needs, from signage and decals to personalized 3D objects.

Eco-solvent models shine in creating vibrant, durable outdoor graphics, with some tailored for seamless media cutting—ideal for stickers, heat transfers, and promotional visuals. Meanwhile, UV-LED printers offer unmatched flexibility for printing across substrates like leather, metal, and plastics, opening doors to creative packaging, prototypes, and customized accessories.

Eco-Solvent Ink: Subtle, Durable, and Efficient

Eco-solvent inks use refined oils that deliver subtle odor and low VOCs, enabling printing even in non-specialized environments. These inks exhibit strong water and UV resistance, adhering well to a variety of uncoated materials. Roland Printers newer implementations—such as the TrueVIS series—expand color gamuts with additional inks for vibrant output, making eco-solvent a practical choice for signs, banners, vehicle wraps, and POP displays.

The ECO-SOL MAX generation raised the bar with faster drying, enhanced scratch resistance, richer color, and support for a broad range of uncoated media—all while being virtually odorless and VOC-free. These improvements also reduce the need for ventilation and offer outdoor durability up to three years without lamination.

Models like the DGXPRESS ER-641 and ER-642 further emphasize affordability and productivity. Both 64″ eco-solvent printers leverage new hardware and ink platforms to deliver crisp image quality and fast output speeds, supported by VersaWorks RIP and Roland DG Connect tools for efficient workflow and maintenance.

UV Ink Technology: Instant Curing, Versatile Surfaces, Realistic Effects

UV-LED ink cures instantly under ultraviolet light, transforming liquid ink into a durable solid—no evaporation, no waiting, and efficient utilization. This process yields crisp, high-definition prints, suitable for materials ranging from vinyl and plastics to wood, metal, and fabrics.

Roland’s UV-compatible printers—such as the VersaUV and the newer MO, LO, and CO-i Series—offer extended functionality. Users can employ white, gloss, red, orange inks, and primers to achieve striking effects: spot varnishes, embossing textures, and expanded color gamuts. These printers excel in applications like packaging, signage, promotional objects, and decor, with flexibility across both flat and three-dimensional surfaces.

UV inks also offer excellent substrate compatibility and consistency across media, requiring fewer media-specific profiles. Eco-UV variants, like EUV inks, extend durability up to two years outdoors with clear coating and reduce shrinking and odors during curing—especially helpful for flexible materials.

Eco-Solvent vs UV Ink: Choosing the Right Technology

When selecting between Eco-Solvent and UV printing, consider the following:

Eco-Solvent Ink: Offers long-lasting prints with minimal odor and good outdoor endurance up to several years. It supports cost-effective materials and does not require special ventilation or post-treatment. Ideal for large-format graphics and continuous media workflows.

UV Ink: Excels in versatility—printing on diverse substrates with instant curing, vivid color, and tactile finishes. It supports direct object printing and dynamic textures, suiting high-end, personalized, or small-batch production. Best for unique or rugged applications where visual impact is a priority.

Conclusion

Roland’s diverse printer portfolio blends eco-solvent and UV technologies, catering to both mainstream signage and specialized applications. Eco-solvent models deliver cost-effective, durable results for traditional signage needs, while UV-LED printers empower creativity across unconventional mediums. Whether you’re outfitting a print shop focused on volume or crafting bespoke products with added flair, Roland offers tools tailored to each path.