Oostende, Belgium – 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.
Press contact – Mutoh Europe
Daniela Scheidung – Daniela.scheidung@mutoh.eu or press@mutoh.eu
Press contact – Grafityp
Bruno Vanoppen – Bruno.vanoppen@upm.com
About MUTOH EUROPE nv - www.mutoh.eu
MUTOH Europe nv are a fully owned subsidiary and EMEA headquarters of MUTOH INDUSTRIES LTD., Tokyo, Japan (TYO: 7999 “MUTOH”). Founded in 1991, the company’s activities encompass sales, pre-sales, warehousing and logistics, marketing, product and application support, service training and after-sales service of MUTOH hardware (professional sign cutting plotters and small size desktop & large-format full-colour piezo printers for commercial inkjet printing, sign & display, specialty/industrial, digital transfer & direct textile applications).
Across the EMEA territory, MUTOH products are distributed and supported exclusively via a wide network of certified distributors and partners through the MUTOH business divisions in Belgium (MUTOH Europe), Germany (MUTOH Deutschland GmbH) and the Baltic States/Finland (MUTOH North Europe).
About Grafityp
Founded in 1969, Grafityp has grown into a trusted global manufacturer of self‑adhesive films, laminates, and print media. With over 50 years of know‑how, Grafityp continues to innovate through its in‑house R&D, constantly refining film‑adhesive combinations to deliver top quality, technical ease of use, and tailor‑made solutions for processors and end‑users alike. As an expert in the production of cast materials, the flagship category of self‑adhesive films, Grafityp sets the standard in performance and long-term durability. A pioneer in sustainable production, the company introduced its GEF PVC‑free product line decades ago, offering solvent‑free films without phthalates, plasticizers, or chlorine—minimizing ecological impact during production and disposal.
In 2024, Grafityp was acquired by UPM, expanding its reach and capabilities as part of a global leader in
sustainable self‑adhesive solutions.
About UPM Adhesive Materials
UPM Adhesive Materials provides high-performance, innovative self-adhesive products, including label materials, graphics solutions, and specialty tapes, as well as reliable services close to customers. We are one of UPM’s fastest-growing global businesses employing around 3,200 professionals. In 2024, our sales reached nearly €1.6 billion ($1.7 billion). Read more: adhesivematerials.upm.com
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Trademarks: AQUAFUZE is a trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation. Other company names or product names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
