Barberan and Fujifilm have unveiled a new development in their ongoing single-pass technology partnership, introducing a fully digital print solution for the Nautilus platform that includes an integrated digital varnish capability.

The technology was previewed during an open day at Barberan’s facilities in May 2026 and represents the latest stage in efforts by the two companies to expand the capabilities of high-speed single-pass inkjet production.

Barberan has an established presence in single-pass corrugated printing, but moving the technology into the graphics sector has presented additional challenges. According to the companies, these include the need to support shorter production runs across a wider range of media and addressing the high-gloss finish traditionally associated with single-pass UV printing.

Many existing approaches rely on analogue primers and matt varnishes, which can add complexity, increase consumable costs and limit the ability to print onto thinner and more flexible substrates. To address this, Fujifilm’s ink development team in Broadstairs worked with Barberan to create a new range of UV inks designed to provide strong adhesion across a broad range of media while reducing or eliminating the need for analogue primers.

The companies say the development enables printing onto thinner papers than many existing single-pass platforms can currently support.

Alongside the new ink set, Fujifilm has also developed a fully integrated digital varnish solution for single-pass UV printing. While digital varnishes are widely used in multi-pass environments, adapting the technology for single-pass production required additional development work. The varnish produces a satin finish and was demonstrated at Fespa 2026 in Barcelona before being showcased during Barberan’s open house event.

The companies believe the technology could be particularly relevant for applications such as out-of-home advertising, where demand for localised and targeted campaigns is increasing.

The Nautilus platform can produce more than 1400 sheets per hour at 2050 x 1600mm, with each sheet carrying unique content. Barberan says its alignment conveyor technology also enables duplex printing with registration accuracy of ±0.1mm.

“We are incredibly excited by the opportunities this latest development creates for the print industry,” said Oliver Mills, single pass marketing manager at Fujifilm Ink. “Fujifilm and Barberan share a common philosophy of pushing the boundaries of digital print through innovation. By introducing a fully integrated digital varnish capability for single-pass UV printing, we are unlocking new levels of productivity, media flexibility and creative freedom for our customers, paving the way for the next generation of high-speed digital production.”

Eladio Lerga, CTO at Barberan, added: “The Nautilus stands alone in its technological advancements, unmatched by any other company worldwide. Its exceptional performance with an innovative ink set capable of achieving outstanding print quality across numerous substrates, and its high output of more than 4000sqm/hr allows it to rival even offset printing in large formats.”

Mr Lerga added that Barberan and Fujifilm demonstrated “what’s next” for the single-pass industry during Fespa 2026.