Tag Archives: Sketch

High Tack Adhesive Vinyl: When to Use Jessup TenaciousTac®

High tack adhesive vinyl is what you reach for when a normal “permanent” decal just will not stay put. If you have graphics lifting on garbage and recycling carts, warning labels sliding off drums, or decals curling on powder-coated equipment, the problem usually is not the printer. It is the surface. This is where the Jessup TenaciousTac® family gives wide-format print shops a reliable way to keep graphics in place on tough substrates.

This article is written for shops running eco-solvent, solvent, latex or UV printers that need permanent graphics on low surface energy plastics, powder-coated metals and other problem surfaces. We will look at when to use high tack adhesive vinyl, where standard films fail, and how to choose the right Jessup TenaciousTac construction for each job.

What Is High Tack Adhesive Vinyl?

Most everyday sign and label films use a standard permanent adhesive. That works well on smooth, high-energy surfaces like glass, painted aluminum or finished sign panels. On low surface energy plastics and textured finishes, however, the adhesive cannot “wet out” the surface properly, so the decal never forms a strong bond.

High tack adhesive vinyl solves this by using a thicker, more aggressive adhesive system that is designed to bite into difficult substrates. The film may look similar to a standard calendered vinyl from the front, but the adhesive layer underneath is doing much more work. When chosen correctly, high tack films help reduce callbacks, reprints and on-site repair trips caused by failed graphics.

Where Standard Vinyl Fails (and High Tack Wins)

If you hear customers say, “Nothing sticks to this,” you are probably looking at one of these surfaces:

• Low surface energy plastics: Garbage and recycling carts, chemical drums, plastic tanks and bins.
• Powder-coated metals: Equipment housings, railings, posts and control panels with a slick, durable finish.
• Textured or rough surfaces: Molded plastics, textured paints and light surface irregularities.
• Outdoor containers and assets: Items that see weather, UV, washing and physical handling.

On these substrates, a standard vinyl may look fine on day one but start lifting at corners, bubbling or sliding after exposure to temperature changes, cleaning and handling. A properly selected high tack vinyl, installed on a clean surface with firm pressure, is designed to stay put.

Jessup TenaciousTac® Options in Plain Language

Paragon Visual offers several Jessup TenaciousTac constructions so you can match the film to the job instead of forcing one product to do everything. Here is a quick, real-world guide to the main options:

If you are unsure which film to use, a simple rule of thumb is to start with 1CR for general high tack labeling, move to 1CRG or CLR 1CRAE when installers want air egress, and step up to the 2CR constructions or TenaciousTac 4 when drums, carts or containers demand extra adhesive strength.

Printing and Installation Tips for High Tack Adhesive Vinyl

The right film is only part of the equation. A few small workflow habits can make high tack jobs more predictable and repeatable:

• Profile and ink load: Use an appropriate media profile so you are not flooding the film with ink. Too much ink can soften the adhesive and slow bond build.
• Dry and outgas: Allow prints to fully dry and outgas before cutting and installing, especially with solvent and eco-solvent systems.
• Clean the surface: Remove dirt, oils, waxes and silicone with the manufacturer’s recommended cleaners. Residue left on drums and carts is a common cause of failure.
• Apply firm, even pressure: Use a squeegee or roller and pay special attention to edges and corners so the adhesive can flow into the surface.
• Allow time for bond build: High tack adhesives continue to build strength over the first 24 hours or more. Avoid aggressive washing or abrasion during this period.

When to Talk High Tack with Your Customers

High tack adhesive vinyl is not just a specialty item to keep on the shelf “just in case.” It can be a proactive solution that strengthens relationships with your customers. Consider recommending TenaciousTac when:

• A customer has recurring issues with labels falling off drums, totes, carts or equipment.
• You are quoting work for a fleet of new garbage or recycling containers made from LSE plastics.
• A manufacturer is rolling out powder-coated assets and wants long-term branding or safety labels.
• You want to position your shop as the one that can solve “nothing sticks” problems instead of just reprinting failed graphics.

How Paragon Visual Helps with Tough-Surface Graphics

Paragon Visual stocks a full range of Jessup adhesive coated films, including the TenaciousTac products highlighted in this guide. Our team works every day with wide-format print providers, in-plant operations and industrial customers who need dependable performance on real-world surfaces, not just test panels.

If you are facing a difficult application or want to standardize on a high tack adhesive vinyl for drums, carts or equipment labeling, we can help you match the right TenaciousTac film to your substrate, printer platform and environment.

Ready to tackle a stubborn surface or quote a new project that needs high-tack performance? Contact Paragon Visual to talk through your application or explore the full Jessup lineup on our Jessup brand page.

Defense 3D Printing: Streamlining Maintenance with User-Friendly Tools

Defense 3D printing helps maintenance teams keep aircraft, vehicles, and mission-critical systems ready to deploy. Instead of waiting weeks or months for a custom tool or replacement part, units can now produce what they need in hours. They can do this on base or even in the field. This shift is especially powerful for maintenance officers and contractors who constantly fight long lead times, aging tooling, and tight budgets.

Traditional maintenance workflows rely on long supply chains, specialist suppliers, and complex procurement steps. When one machine shop controls a unique wrench, cap, or fixture—or when the tool does not exist at all—downtime stretches and costs rise. Modern defense 3D printing workflows flip that model. Simple, user-friendly printers and engineering-grade materials let teams design, print, and deploy purpose-built tools on demand.

Why Maintenance Becomes a Bottleneck

Across the U.S. military and allied forces, teams often use a two-level maintenance strategy. Field units handle line maintenance. Depots or specialist shops take on more complex work. The structure looks solid on paper. In practice, it breaks down when a unit needs a one-off tool or adapter that is not already on the shelf.

• Custom tools take time: Designing and machining a new tool can mean 6–12 weeks of lead time.
• Unit cost is high: A single specialty wrench or adapter can easily cost hundreds or even over a thousand dollars.
• Logistics slow everything down: Long supply chains, export rules, and shipping delays add more friction.

The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) faced exactly these challenges across Chinook, Apache, NH90, and F-16 fleets. Their teams needed specialized adjustment tools, engine caps, and fixtures that either did not exist or cost far too much and took too long to arrive. Instead of accepting those delays, they brought industrial desktop 3D printers into their own maintenance workflow and started producing tools on site.

How Defense 3D Printing Changes the Playbook

Modern systems like the UltiMaker Factor 4 and secure S-series printers suit defense environments very well. They stay compact and fully enclosed. Dual-material extrusion prints strong, accurate parts from carbon-fiber composites, nylons, and flexible polymers.

• Deployable footprint: Teams can place systems in maintenance shops, onboard ships, or inside mobile containers with minimal infrastructure.
• Short learning curve: Personnel can learn defense 3D printing workflows in hours, not weeks, and start solving their own maintenance problems.
• Secure operation: UltiMaker platforms support offline and intranet-only workflows. That support aligns with defense-grade security expectations and TAA/GSA requirements.

With these tools, defense organizations move critical maintenance capability closer to the point of need. They do it without adding a huge training or infrastructure burden.

Case Study: The Rotinor Turbine Wrench

One widely cited example involves a custom wrench used for maintaining an underwater transport system. Traditionally, a machine shop manufactured this tool in steel. The team waited about 12 weeks for delivery and paid roughly $1,300 per wrench. By shifting to a 3D printed design that uses carbon-fiber-reinforced PA CF10 and a tribological filament, engineers cut both time and cost dramatically.

The 3D printed design also improves the tool itself. Two contrasting materials create visible abrasion as the wrench wears. Technicians can see when to replace it and avoid damage to the system it serves.

Simple, User-Friendly Workflows for Non-Experts

One of the biggest advantages of defense 3D printing is how accessible it has become. Maintenance teams do not need to become full-time CAD specialists to see value. Instead, they can rely on proven workflows and repeatable steps.

• Start from templates: Teams can store common tools—caps, covers, gauges, brackets—in a secure digital catalog and reuse them across bases.
• Use guided software: UltiMaker Cura offers pre-tuned profiles that match materials and settings to the application. That guidance keeps prints consistent.
• Print, test, refine: If a tool needs a tweak, a new iteration can come off the printer the same day instead of after a full machining cycle.
• Train the whole team: Enclosed, automated printers make it easier to train more personnel to run jobs and monitor quality safely.

Together, digital catalogs, secure workflows, and user-friendly hardware turn defense 3D printing from a “cool experiment” into a reliable maintenance capability.

Choosing the Right Platform for Defense Maintenance

Each defense maintenance environment looks a little different. Some teams need rugged, deployable systems for field repair. Others need high-throughput printers on the factory floor. Paragon Visual works with government and defense buyers to match the right platform to the mission, including:

• UltiMaker Factor 4: An industrial-grade printer with a triple-insulated build chamber, automated material handling, and support for 200+ engineering materials. It fits process-critical tools, jigs, and fixtures.
  View UltiMaker Factor 4.
• Secure S-series options: Defense-ready configurations, including TAA-compliant secure models, support offline and intranet-only workflows. They still offer dual-material printing and advanced composites. For larger build volume and industrial performance, see the
  UltiMaker S8 industrial 3D printer.
• Education and contractors: UltiMaker S-series printers serve training pipelines, R&D labs, and contractors who support DoD programs. These systems balance capability, security, and ease of use.

If you are already exploring how 3D printing for defense contractors fits into your strategy, a maintenance-focused pilot around tools and fixtures often delivers the fastest ROI.

How to Start a Defense 3D Printing Pilot with Paragon Visual

• 1. Identify your “top ten” pain points: Focus on tools, caps, covers, brackets, and inspection aids that cause delays today.
• 2. Map parts to printers & materials: Match each item to a suitable UltiMaker platform and material. For example, use carbon-fiber nylon for load-bearing tools and TPU for protective covers.
• 3. Build a secure digital catalog: Store approved geometries and print profiles so any authorized location can reproduce parts consistently.
• 4. Train a small core team: Start with a handful of engineers or technicians who own the workflow and then train others.
• 5. Track readiness and savings: Measure reductions in lead time, rush-order spend, and downtime to build a clear, data-backed business case.

Bottom Line

For defense organizations, every day of downtime carries a cost: operational, financial, and strategic. When you bring defense 3D printing directly into maintenance workflows, you turn specialty tools and fixtures from a supply-chain liability into a local capability. The Royal Netherlands Air Force and other armed forces now print custom tools in hours instead of months and see cost reductions that approach 98% in some cases.

If you are ready to explore secure, TAA-compliant 3D printing that supports your maintenance and readiness goals, Paragon Visual can help. Our team supports platform selection, pilot programs, and long-term fleet support across the United States.

If you would like help evaluating platforms, materials, or a pilot workflow,
contact Paragon Visual. We support government and defense buyers across the United States.

Sustainable Printing Starts Here: HP Ink Cartridge Recycling with Planet Partners

At Paragon Visual we make it simple to choose sustainability and performance together. The HP Planet Partners Recycling Program provides a free and easy way to return Original HP ink and toner cartridges. Returned materials are responsibly processed so plastics and metals can be used again in new HP products and in other useful items. When you recycle your cartridges you help reduce waste and support a circular approach to printing without giving up the consistent output that HP DesignJet users expect.

How HP Planet Partners Works

• Collect empty Original HP ink and toner cartridges from your HP printers including DesignJet models
• Use the return materials that come in some cartridge boxes or order free prepaid mailers and boxes
• Seal and ship your returns at no cost using the prepaid labels
• HP receives and processes returns then recovers plastics and metals for reuse in new Original HP cartridges and in other products

Why This Matters for DesignJet Users

• Reliable results with color accuracy and crisp lines using Original HP Inks
• Engineered performance that supports printhead life and consistent output on wide format jobs
• Simple returns with free mail back options that fit right into existing supply routines
• Sustainability benefits by keeping valuable materials in circulation and out of landfills

Watch HP Planet Partners in Action

Quick Start Steps

• Choose Original HP Ink and Supplies from Paragon Visual
• Set aside empties in a small box to keep your workspace neat
• Order free prepaid mailers and boxes when you are ready to return
• Apply the prepaid label and ship from your location
• Repeat each time you replace cartridges to keep materials in use

Key Points

• HP provides a no cost return process for Original HP cartridges through Planet Partners
• Returned materials are responsibly processed and recovered for reuse where feasible
• Many new Original HP cartridges contain recycled plastic content
• DesignJet users can support quality and sustainability at the same time

Links and Resources

• HP Ink and Toner Cartridge Recycling
• Order Free HP Recycling Mailers and Boxes
• Shop Genuine HP Ink and Supplies

Paragon Visual supplies OEM HP inks for every DesignJet and supports easy cartridge recycling through HP Planet Partners

At Paragon Visual, we love spotlighting how real-world 3D printing applications are driving innovation across industries. This week, we’re excited to share an impressive project where a custom-designed drone bracket was developed using the UltiMaker S6 and PET CF filament — demonstrating just how effective additive manufacturing can be when paired with the right tools.

The part was produced entirely in-house and designed to support humanitarian efforts in mine detection using advanced drone imaging systems.

Mission-Ready: Lightweight and Functional

The challenge was to create a drone-mounted bracket capable of securing both thermal and RGB cameras used to scan for plastic landmines in conflict zones. This dual-purpose camera system required:

• A snug, secure mount
• Low overall weight to maximize flight time
• High durability for field conditions

Every element of the bracket’s geometry was optimized using UltiMaker Cura, the industry-leading slicing software that offers advanced controls for material usage, infill, wall thickness, and support structures.

UltiMaker S6 + PET CF = Professional Performance

The bracket was 3D printed using the UltiMaker S6, a dual-extrusion professional printer ideal for complex mechanical parts and functional prototypes. To ensure strength without adding weight, the team used PET CF — a carbon fiber-reinforced filament with high rigidity, temperature resistance, and dimensional stability.

The final part included:

• A robust frame to mount the cameras
• A protective cover plate to shield delicate electronics
• Clean interfaces and tolerances for easy integration

Cura Optimization: From 10 Hours to 3 Hours Print Time

Using UltiMaker Cura, the team was able to reduce the total print time from over 10 hours to just 3 hours and 12 minutes — a 65% improvement without compromising structural quality.

Advanced slicing techniques allowed them to:

• Adjust wall and infill settings for optimal strength
• Use support strategies that minimized post-processing
• Maintain dimensional accuracy and smooth surface finish

The UltiMaker S6’s precision print bed and closed front enclosure further ensured that the carbon fiber filament performed reliably across multiple print cycles.

Why This Application Stands Out

This project showcases the best of what’s possible when you combine professional-grade 3D printing hardware, high-performance materials, and expert design practices:

• Over 65% faster print time with Cura slicing
• Carbon fiber strength with lightweight PET CF
• Precision camera mounting for aerial image accuracy
• No tooling or outsourcing — made entirely in-house
• Ready for field use in demanding, life-saving missions

Ready to Build Smarter? Let’s Talk.

At Paragon Visual, we support professionals in aerospace, education, manufacturing, and defense with 3D printing solutions that help you move faster and smarter.

Looking to explore functional printing, optimize workflows, or bring your prototyping in-house? The UltiMaker S6, paired with materials like PET CF, offers the power and precision to take your ideas from sketch to sky.

👉 Explore UltiMaker 3D printers »
👉 Need help choosing the right printer or material? Talk to our team »

Source: Adapted from Ultimaker. Original article available here

Print Big. Save Bigger.

Upgrade your printer, get up to $1,200 cash back.

Now through September 30, 2025, HP is rewarding you for upgrading your large-format printer. Trade in your old plotter—any qualifying inkjet or LED model—and receive up to $1,200 back when you purchase or lease an eligible new HP DesignJet printer.

Whether you’re printing CAD drawings, GIS maps, retail graphics, or photo-quality visuals, HP DesignJet has a wide-format solution built for your needs.

📦 How it Works:

1. Purchase or lease a qualifying DesignJet between July 1 – Sept 30, 2025
2. Trade in your old qualifying printer (many brands/models accepted)
3. Submit your claim by October 31, 2025 with proof of purchase

🖨️ Eligible HP DesignJet Printers & Rebates

Choose from a wide range of qualifying HP DesignJet models—whether you’re looking for high-end photo production or powerful multifunction CAD printing. Explore the eligible printers below to see how much you can save:

👇 View the full list of qualifying models and rebate amounts:

Recycle your old printer responsibly with HP Planet Partners »

Contact us today to learn more!

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🌎 Recycle your old printer responsibly with HP Planet Partners »

See all our printers: Learn More

Looking to see if your current printer qualifies? HP accepts a wide range of large-format inkjet and LED printers—including legacy HP DesignJet models and competing brands like Epson, Canon, Xerox, and Ricoh.

👉 Download the full list of eligible trade-in models (PDF) »

This PDF includes all qualifying models by brand, technology type, and size (36″ or larger). Be sure to review the list before submitting your rebate claim.

At Paragon Visual, we love spotlighting real-world examples of how 3D printing drives innovation. This week, we’re showcasing a 3D printed protective lab case designed to safeguard fragile glassware in high-precision environments.

Why 3D Print a Labware Case?

In environmental and chemical labs, precision glassware can be costly—and it’s often vulnerable to breakage during handling or storage. Apria Systems’ project engineer, Andrés Del Castillo Martín, needed a fast, effective way to protect this glassware without relying on expensive machining or slow traditional fabrication.

The Solution: A Modular 3D Printed Case

Instead of outsourcing or waiting on traditional production methods, the team used PLA filament and the UltiMaker S6 to design and print a custom four-piece protective case. The entire process took just 8 hours—produced entirely in-house.

What makes this case stand out?

• Tailored Protection: The design was shaped precisely to the unique geometry of the labware, preventing damage without adding bulk.
• Refined Surface Finish: Using 0.4mm print cores, the part achieved a clean, professional look that holds up to daily handling.
• Faster Prints with Smaller Nozzles: Thanks to the S6’s Cheetah motion planner, Apria was able to cut print time even while using fine nozzles—proving speed doesn’t have to come at the expense of quality.
• Scalable Design: The modular nature of the case means it can be easily modified for other tools or reprinted as needed.

Built with UltiMaker S6 Performance

This project demonstrates the power of the UltiMaker S6 to deliver fast, polished results in high-precision environments. With advanced motion control and optimized print speeds, the S6 empowers R&D and lab teams to iterate quickly and produce durable parts in-house—saving both time and cost.

Interested in Exploring 3D Printing for Your Lab or Facility?

Paragon Visual partners with organizations across Florida and beyond to help implement smart additive solutions. Whether you’re printing prototypes, tools, or final-use parts, we’re here to support you with hardware, materials, and expertise.

📩 Contact us today to learn more about the UltiMaker S6 and other advanced 3D printing systems:

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Source: UltiMaker – Application of the Week: Protective Case for Custom Glass Labware

UltiMaker S6 3D Printer – Fast, Reliable, Modular 3D Printing

Available Additional $500 Trade-In Discount (with valid serial number). Contact Paragon Visual for details and an official quote.

The UltiMaker S6 delivers professional-grade performance with up to 4× the output of the S5. Featuring the advanced Cheetah motion planner, a dual-extrusion print head, a flexible heated build plate, and full cloud connectivity, it’s the perfect solution for fast, reliable 3D printing across prototyping, tooling, and production applications.

Shop now

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), also known as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), is one of the most widely used 3D printing technologies available today. It works by melting thermoplastic filament and depositing it layer by layer to form a 3D object. Simple in concept, yet powerful in application, this method has transformed how industries prototype, manufacture, and create custom solutions.

At Paragon Visual, we believe understanding the core advantages of FFF technology can help teams across education, engineering, manufacturing, and design decide if it’s the right fit for their needs.

How FFF 3D Printing Works

Every FFF print starts with a digital 3D model, created in CAD software. That model is then sliced into thin layers using software like Cura. The printer heats the filament and extrudes it through a nozzle, tracing the cross-section of each layer on the build platform. Once a layer is complete, the platform lowers slightly, and the process repeats.

This layer-by-layer approach enables high precision, minimal waste, and the ability to produce complex internal geometries.

Advantages of FFF 3D Printing

There’s a reason why FFF has become a go-to technology for so many users — it combines reliability, affordability, and material versatility with ease of use.

Key benefits include:

• Cost-Effectiveness: FFF printers are typically more affordable than other 3D printing technologies. Materials like PLA and PETG are low-cost and easy to source, reducing the overall investment for prototyping or production.
• Material Flexibility: FFF supports a wide range of filaments including ABS, TPU, Nylon, and composites infused with wood, metal, or carbon fiber. This enables use in everything from decorative pieces to industrial tools.
• User-Friendly: With a lower learning curve and intuitive interfaces, FFF is accessible to beginners while offering depth for professionals.
• Larger Build Volumes: Many models offer spacious build areas — up to 305 x 305 x 605 mm (12.0 x 12.0 x 23.8 inches) or more — which allows for bigger parts or higher-volume batch printing.
• Fast Turnaround: Print speeds are suitable for rapid prototyping, letting designers and engineers move quickly through iteration cycles.
• Low Maintenance: Compared to more complex technologies, FFF printers are easier to maintain and repair, with fewer moving parts and readily available components.
• Office-Friendly Footprint: Quiet operation and compact form factors make these printers suitable for classrooms, labs, or design studios.

Real-World Applications of FFF Printing

FFF’s accessibility and performance have opened the door to a wide range of practical applications across industries:

• Manufacturing & Engineering: Prototypes, jigs, fixtures, tooling, and even small-batch end-use parts
• Aerospace: Lightweight structural components, specialized tools, and complex geometries for testing or integration
• Automotive: Concept modeling, functional test parts, vintage car restoration, and custom tool development
• Healthcare: Patient-specific models, prosthetics, dental aligners, and medical device prototypes
• Education: STEM learning, student projects, teaching aids, and hands-on experience with digital design and manufacturing
• Architecture: Scaled models, prototyping of decorative elements, and molds for casting
• Consumer Goods: Product design validation, custom product runs, packaging prototypes, and marketing displays

Choosing the Right FFF Printer

When selecting a printer, several factors should guide your decision:

• Build Volume: Choose a size that matches your application needs. Smaller desktop units are ideal for education and small designs, while industrial users may need larger-format models.
• Print Quality: Resolution, layer height (usually 50–400 microns), and XY precision affect the surface finish and detail of your parts.
• Material Compatibility: Make sure the printer supports the materials required for your work — especially if you need high-performance engineering filaments.
• Speed & Productivity: Look for machines with higher print speeds or dual-extrusion capabilities if you need to produce parts quickly or use multiple materials.
• Ease of Use: Features like auto bed-leveling, filament sensors, and responsive touchscreen controls reduce setup time and user error.
• Cost: Entry-level printers range from $200–$500, mid-range from $500–$2,000, and professional systems from $2,000 – & Up. Consider both equipment cost and ongoing consumables when budgeting.

What’s Next for FFF Technology?

The future of FFF includes higher-performance materials, smarter software, and more automation — making it even easier to scale up in professional environments. Expect greater print speed, better part quality, and more sustainable material options.

At Paragon Visual, we’re helping organizations across Florida and beyond tap into these advancements with proven systems from trusted brands like Ultimaker and MakerBot.

Explore the Possibilities with Paragon Visual!

Whether you’re new to 3D printing or looking to expand an existing lab, we can help you evaluate the right printer, provide sample prints, and offer support every step of the way.

Explore our lineup of 3D printers

Or check out one of our recent application stories: How a 3D Printed Sprocket Wheel Cut Lead Time by 93%

Need help choosing the right setup for your team? Contact us today or fill out the form below:

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Source: Ultimaker.com:  Read the original article

At Paragon Visual, we love sharing real-world examples of how additive manufacturing is transforming traditional production. One recent success story comes from Ultimaker, showcasing a powerful application of 3D printing in the industrial sector: a custom sprocket wheel built for performance and precision.

Sprocket wheels are commonly used in food and beverage conveyor lines to engage with chains or belts and ensure continuous movement. Traditionally machined from stainless steel or high-strength polymers, these parts can be costly and slow to produce, especially when custom specs are required.

Why 3D Printing Makes Sense

Instead of relying on slow, expensive machining, manufacturers can now turn to 3D printing solutions to produce high-performance sprockets faster and at a fraction of the cost.

In this example, the sprocket was printed using:

• PET CF for rigidity and core strength (Show Me More!)
• UltiMaker Nylon CF Slide for excellent wear resistance and low-friction performance

The result? A durable, highly customized part designed to meet the demands of continuous industrial motion.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional Durability: The PET CF and Nylon CF Slide combination ensures long-lasting structural integrity and wear resistance.
• Precision Fit: Every dimension—from bore diameter to tooth profile—was customized for the application.
• Smooth, Quiet Operation: Precision 3D printing reduces vibration and noise, extending conveyor system lifespan.
• Flexible & Modular: Need to update or duplicate the part later? Additive manufacturing makes it easy.
• Time & Cost Savings:
  • ✅ €1,065 saved – an 89% cost reduction
  • ✅ 195 days saved – a 93% decrease in lead time

Is It Time to Rethink Your Supply Chain?

Whether you’re in food production, logistics, or advanced manufacturing, 3D printing can unlock new levels of agility and efficiency. Want to see how industrial printers like the Ultimaker Factor 4 or S8 Pro Bundle could fit into your workflow? Let’s connect—Paragon Visual is here to help.

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Source: Ultimaker.com – Read the original article

💧 What is Wet Strength Paper? Why It Matters for Signage & Posters

In the world of professional printing, not all paper is created equal. When you’re creating signage or posters for environments where durability is critical—like outdoor displays, transit advertising, or retail promotions—wet strength paper makes all the difference.

At Paragon Visual, we carry a full line of Sihl TriSolv™ wet strength media that combines outstanding print performance with the strength to withstand the elements.

👉 Explore All TriSolv™ Media Options »

💡 What is Wet Strength Paper?

Wet strength paper is specially engineered to maintain its structural integrity and resist tearing or disintegration when exposed to moisture. This is crucial for outdoor or humid environments, where ordinary paper would fail.

Unlike regular papers that absorb water and weaken, wet strength papers use reinforced fiber bonding, allowing them to hold up in rain, fog, or high-humidity conditions.

🧪 Why Choose Sihl TriSolv™?

The Sihl TriSolv™ product line offers professional-grade media with wet strength technology across various finishes and adhesive options. Each product is compatible with solvent, latex, and UV-curable printers, making it a go-to solution for wide-format print providers.

🖼️ TriSolv™ Poster 3684 – Semi-Gloss, 6 mil

• ✅ 6 mil thickness
• ✅ High scratch resistance
• ✅ Ideal for outdoor and transit signage

View Product →

🖼️ TriSolv™ PrimeArt 3686 – Semi-Gloss, 8 mil

• ✅ Outdoor durability + indoor elegance
• ✅ Water & scratch resistant
• ✅ Ideal for photo prints, awards, and promotional signage

View Product →

🖼️ TriSolv™ PhotoArt 3699 – Gloss, 9 mil

• ✅ Homogeneous gloss finish
• ✅ High-end color reproduction
• ✅ Suited for gallery-style prints and advertising

View Product →

🖼️ TriSolv™ PrimeArt BB PSA 3683 – Adhesive-Backed, 9 mil

• ✅ Self-adhesive + wet strength
• ✅ Scratch and water resistant
• ✅ Great for outdoor boards and walls

View Product →

🖼️ TriSolv™ PopArt PSA 3685 – Adhesive-Backed, 11 mil

• ✅ Thick and durable for print-and-cut workflows
• ✅ Weather and water resistant
• ✅ Acid-free and PVC-free

View Product →

🔍 Choosing the Right Wet Strength Media

When selecting wet strength paper, consider:

• ✅ Indoor vs. Outdoor usage
• ✅ Adhesive requirements
• ✅ Finish preference: Gloss, Satin, or Semi-Gloss
• ✅ Thickness needs for fold endurance or rigidity

Not sure which one fits your application? We’re here to help.

📞 Contact us anytime to get guidance on the right TriSolv™ media for your project.

✅ Why Wet Strength Media Adds Value

Using professional wet strength media:

• ✔️ Reduces reprints due to weather damage
• ✔️ Enhances print longevity and vibrancy
• ✔️ Ensures consistent brand visibility outdoors
• ✔️ Simplifies application with durable, foldable material

For brands and print shops that can’t afford to compromise on quality, Sihl TriSolv™ delivers print-ready performance that holds up under pressure.

📦 Ready to Print with Confidence?

Browse our full selection of wet strength photo and signage media here or contact us for a free sample or application guidance.

In high-speed manufacturing, even the smallest part can have a massive impact. One such example? Guide rails used in bottle packaging lines. These seemingly simple components play a critical role in keeping production moving smoothly—and now, 3D printing is transforming how they’re made.

At Paragon Visual, we’re seeing firsthand how additive manufacturing is enabling faster, more flexible solutions across industries. A perfect example comes from a recent case study featured by Ultimaker, where 3D printed guide rails helped streamline production in a hygiene product bottling facility.

Why Guide Rails Matter

Guide rails are used on conveyor lines to keep bottles in position as they move through the packaging process. Traditional manufacturing methods require custom rails to be machined—often with long lead times and high costs. When a new bottle shape is introduced or production changes, replacing or modifying these rails can delay output.

3D Printing to the Rescue

With industrial 3D printers like the UltiMaker Factor 4, guide rails can be printed in-house using high-strength polymers. Here’s what that means for your operations:

• 🕒 Rapid Turnaround: Print replacement rails in hours—not weeks.
• 💡 Customization: Adjust dimensions and designs on the fly to fit new product lines.
• 💰 Cost Savings: Eliminate expensive CNC machining or outsourcing.
• ♻️ Sustainability: Minimize waste by producing only what you need, when you need it.

Real-World Results

In the Ultimaker case study, a packaging company 3D printed custom guide rails tailored to a new hygiene product bottle. The result? Smooth bottle flow, reduced jams, and increased uptime—without waiting weeks for a new part.

This is the kind of agile solution that’s making 3D printing a must-have tool for manufacturers.

Is Your Line Ready for the Future?

If you’re managing high-throughput packaging or production systems, integrating 3D printing into your workflow can unlock massive efficiencies. Whether it’s custom rails, jigs, fixtures, or tooling—we can help you find the right printer and material for the job.

Explore our industrial 3D printer lineup, including the UltiMaker Factor 4, and see how Paragon Visual supports manufacturers with tailored additive manufacturing solutions.

📩 Let’s talk about how 3D printing can improve your packaging lines.

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UltiMaker Factor 4 – Industrial 3D Printer

$20,526.32 Original price was: $20,526.32.$19,500.00Current price is: $19,500.00.

The UltiMaker Factor 4 is an industrial 3D printer built for the factory floor, with direct dual extrusion, automated material handling, and an actively heated, insulated build volume. It delivers highly repeatable, production-ready parts using engineering composites like PET CF and PPS CF, backed by onboard print process reporting and advanced environmental control for consistent results across batches and locations.

UltiMaker Factor 4 – Industrial 3D Printer quantity

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SKU: 62-234991

Category: 3D Printers, UltiMaker

Tags: 3D Printer, ABS, CPE, Nylon, PC, PETG, PLA, PP, S7, Tough PLA, TPU 95A, UltiMaker

Source: Ultimaker – Application of the Week: Guide Rail