Graph Expo: Heidelberg Expands Prosetter Series |
 |
| 10/07/2002 |
|
Single cassette loader and photopolymer plates combine to optimize violet imaging
Heidelberg is once again expanding its range of Prosetter platesetters. At Graph and Converting Expo 2002, the Prosetter will be unveiled as a fully automatic unit with a single cassette loader (SCL) and online processor. The cassette system supports violet plate imaging in daylight conditions and means that no yellow light is needed. Another new feature is the fact that the QM 46 plate format is now also supported by the Prosetter 102. From the end of the year, the Prosetter series will also be able to image photopolymer plates with a 30 mW laser head and thereby support far higher print runs and the use of UV inks.
Automation brings cost-effectiveness
Fast, reliable production and the most efficient possible use of resources are what is needed today for successful print production. The complexity of print jobs is increasing all the time, while job runs are decreasing. The solution lies in automating the various process operations, since this avoids operator error, but first and foremost makes these operations faster and more efficient. Consequently, end-to-end automation of the print process is now a key factor in ensuring cost-effective and reliable production. Previously, very few small- to medium-sized printshops were able to achieve the level of automation they wanted, due to prohibitive investment costs. Heidelberg is now filling this gap by expanding the Prosetter series to include the single cassette loader, which was announced at Ipex and is now available for 52, 74 and 102 formats.
The main advantage, aside from the automation and the compact design, is that the unit can be operated easily during daylight, since the light-tight cassettes are loaded into the SCL via a special cassette carriage. The carriage is designed to ensure that the cassette is transported securely in upright orientation from the yellow light source to the platesetter and can be loaded effortlessly into the single cassette loader in horizontal orientation. The tilting mechanism means that the cassette can also be transported through confined spaces and standard doorways, a particular advantage in smaller businesses where space is at a premium. The individual cassettes can hold up to 150 plates of 0.15 mm thickness, or 100 plates of 0.30 mm thickness. Slip sheets are removed automatically. Up to 400 sheets can be stored in the collection tray. This allows up to eight hours of non-stop operation with only minimum input by the operator.
In smaller businesses in particular there is often very little space to spare when arranging equipment. A space-saving 90° configuration is achieved by the very compact design used for the Prosetter and the SCL with integrated L-conveyor. Using the narrower plate side means that the processor can be smaller and also cuts the consumption of chemicals. An optional online processor rounds off the fully automatic unit. The Raptor processor from Glunz & Jensen can be integrated perfectly into the system thanks to the close cooperation between the two manufacturers. The Prosetter interface, for example, controls the entire process route from SCL to Raptor processor.
Modular design
The single cassette loader supports all formats in the Prosetter family and is compatible with all types of plates. The spectrum of plates supported by the Prosetters has been augmented by the Printmaster QM 46 format in the Prosetter 102. The Prosetter series thus covers all formats up to 8-up like the Speedmaster SM 102.
At the end of the year, the Prosetters will be shipped with a 30 mW laser head for imaging photopolymer plates. Customers can tailor their production to meet their needs - either using photopolymer plates and UV inks to print longer runs, or imaging the existing silver halide plates with a lower power of 5 mW.
The lower investment costs of the Prosetter series also make it possible for smaller and medium-sized businesses to move into the CTP market. High register accuracy is achieved through the integrated punches. All Prosetters image using internal drum technology. The Prosetter F 102 (F for fast) images up to 18 plates an hour, while the Prosetter F 74 can image up to 24 an hour. The modular construction ensures that models can be retrofitted to meet rising demands. The Prosetter 52 can be upgraded to 4-up format on site, while the Prosetter 74 and 102 can also be upgraded on-site to the Fast versions in just half a day.
All Prosetters are optimally integrated into Heidelberg's workflow system. Control is via the MetaShooter or older systems such as Delta or Prinergy. The new Workflow Prinect Printready System controls the Prosetter directly via MetaDimension.
Image:
Heidelberg is now also bringing automation to all formats of the CTP entry-level market. The single cassette loader for the Prosetter has a capacity of up to 150 plates and supports production in daylight conditions. Heidelberg has also announced that it will be possible to image photopolymer plates from the end of the year.
For further information:
Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
Matthias Hartung
Corporate Communications
Tel.: +49 (0)6221 92 50 77
Fax: +49 (0)6221 92 50 46
E-mail:
matthias.hartung@heidelberg.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
rtf Document
If your browser displays the file instead of downloading, choose 'Save As' from your browser's 'File' menu.
 Download (1.94 MB)
|
|
|