Canon unveils Colorado XL-series printers for 3.2-metre graphics

Canon has announced the Colorado XL-series, a new 3.4-metre printer platform designed to extend the use of its UVgel technology to the 3.2-metre graphics sector.

The Colorado XL-series will be offered in both roll-to-roll and hybrid models, supporting a variety of applications for both flexible and rigid media. The printers can handle substrates up to 52mm thick and achieve print speeds of up to 211 square metres per hour. The system utilises the new UVgel 860 ink set, combined with UVgel FullBeam Curing, which enables consistent print quality across the entire print width.

Both the Colorado XL7 roll-to-roll printer and the Colorado XL7 hybrid printer form the foundation of the platform. The series is aimed at a wide market, as it can process an extensive selection of materials, including banner, paper, vinyl, films, soft signage, foam board, fluted polypropylene, acrylic, aluminium composite boards, and cardboard. According to Canon, this range enables print providers to meet a diverse set of customer demands across signage, décor, point-of-sale, and packaging sectors.

The productivity of the Colorado XL-series is highlighted by its varying print speeds: 70 square metres per hour in quality mode, 106 in production mode, and a peak of 211 in express mode. The system is designed for rigorous use in demanding production environments while retaining flexibility for rigid applications thanks to its capacity for materials up to 2 inches thick.

Technical features

The new UVgel 860 ink set is optimised for both rigid and flexible printing. Canon highlights known benefits of UVgel technology, including odourless and instantly dry prints, mechanical and chemical durability, dimensional stability from low-temperature curing, and good colour fidelity. The prints are also free from TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) and VCL (Vinylcaprolactam), and the system can deliver matte and gloss finishes without secondary varnishing.

The series incorporates UVgel 850 PrintHeads, each with 4,544 nozzles and integrated monitoring for consistent nozzle integrity. A single printhead covers two colours, which allows the four-colour CMYK spectrum to be achieved with two printheads, and an optional third for white ink when required. Print quality is further supported by UVgel DynamicMotion Control, which optimises the printhead movement for challenging media.

For the curing process, the UVgel FullBeam Curing system uses a 3.4-metre-wide LED array and a mirror system to distribute UV light evenly. This produces consistent results over large surfaces and supports a broader colour range. Media handling is guided by the UVgel TRIdrive vacuum belt, employing three rollers and multiple vacuum zones to manage material alignment, reduce wrinkling, and ensure accurate print positioning throughout a job.

Optional features and upgrades

The Colorado XL-series design is modular and can be upgraded in the field. Optional features, some shared with Canon's existing M-series, include UVgel White for printing white, FLXfinish+ for combining matte and gloss finishes in a single print, and FLXture for producing textured finishes that imitate materials such as leather, wood, or fabric.

Duncan Smith, Country Director, Production at Canon UK & Ireland, commented on the rationale behind the new release and its potential impact:

"For the past decade, Canon has led the evolution of large-format inkjet printing with innovations like the Colorado roll-to-roll printers powered by UVgel technology and the Arizona flatbed series. As print providers seek higher productivity, versatility, and reliability amid skilled labour shortages, Canon is introducing the new Colorado XL-series - a breakthrough addition designed to set new standards in both performance and flexibility."

"This innovative solution brings UVgel technology to the 3.2m market for the first time, combining it with advanced automation and a modular design that expands opportunities into sectors such as packaging and décor. Its hybrid capabilities allow users to print roll-to-roll and rigid applications on the same device - using the same ink, colour profiles, and finishes - while delivering distinctive effects like gloss, matte, and textured prints at scale."

"For brands, this means seamless campaigns across multiple applications - from signage and graphics to packaging and décor - with consistent quality and finish. When displayed together in-store, that uniformity enhances the overall brand experience that today's market demands."

The Colorado XL-series will be available from the start of 2026 through Canon's direct sales networks and accredited partners.