Manroland Sheetfed "transplants" new Lower Energy Curing technology into ROLAND offset presses- World-class reputation in UV printing sector
UV printing is widely popular in the industry since it provides various print effects, ideal rub resistance, and fast-finishing possibilities to the printed sheets. The sophisticated ROLAND press has built a world-class reputation in UV printing over the years by coming up with innovative technologies. These include the well-known inking and dampening systems used to great effect for high-viscosity UV inks, the best positioning of UV lamps and the highly efficient inter-deck curing process. All aspects of UV applications have been considered in designing the press, making the ROLAND family the benchmark in this sector.
Smart alternative for specific customers
UV application is lucrative business but some printers, especially occasional UV users, remain hesitant in fully venturing into this market. Among their concerns are the initial investment in UV equipment and operational costs; occasional UV job structure led to longer return on invest time while energy consumption in traditional UV curing can be generally high. Extra space is also needed to accommodate supplementary equipment for UV applications. Customer demand for top-quality and economical UV application gave Manroland Sheetfed the idea of developing a new solution: the Low Energy Curing (LEC) technology.
Lower Energy Curing
LEC technology is built on a combination of special LEC UV lamps and highly reactive UV ink. It is designed for faster curing results and premium curing quality.
Advantages are noticeable: The sales value of each printed sheet is increased because of the smoother surface and its high resistance to scratches and abrasion. Quick ink curing process offers further possibilities of faster finishing and post-press enhancements.
Initial investment is less pricey since less curing lamps and supplementary equipment are required. Depending on printers' specific needs, one or two LEC UV lamps can be mounted on the interdeck, behind the last printing unit, or on the delivery unit. Energy consumption is another significant saving. Thanks to the specially doped medium pressure LEC UV lamp, total energy consumption in the curing process can be reduced by as much as 75%. Definitely a cost-efficient and flexible solution.
Furthermore, it helps the printers to achieve the glossiest effect without compromising on quality. The ROLAND ink supply system is ideal for applying high-viscosity UV inks. Together with smooth sheet guide and the efficient shape and placement of the UV modules, this makes LEC an attractive solution for curing of UV inks in premium quality.
Economical and eco-friendly
Thanks to the specially treated LEC UV lamp, total energy consumption can be dramatically reduced. Moreover, because fewer lamps and supplementary equipment are needed, LEC saves not only initial capital investment costs, but also frees up valuable space in the printing workshop. The process is also ozone-free and powder is no longer necessary in production. This creates better working conditions for the operators and appeals more to environment-conscious print buyers.
Applause from customers has confirmed the right direction
Drukkerij Roelofs, a Dutch printer famous for its innovative spirit and environmental consciousness, is the first to use the Manroland Sheetfed LEC UV technology in unison with its newly brought eight-color ROLAND 700 DirectDrive press. Feedbacks from the Enschede-based printer are positive.
"We were impressed with the result," Mr. Puntman, Directorof Drukkerij Roelofs, said after a successful trial of the new application. "The finished product is attractive and we were able to complete the job quickly because of faster curing. We can do more print effects with LEC UV technology without fear of consuming greater energy, endless possibilities! Its environmental-friendly features perfectly fit our develop strategy."
Mr. Wilhelm Graeff, Head of Print Technology Center in Manroland Sheetfed, also gives his comments, "Recognizing customers' needs and fulfilling them by offering flexible solutions, we are in the right direction with confidence powered by the positive results from Drukkerij Roelofs. Further add-ons for our ROLAND presses are under developing and our door keeps on opened for all of open minded customers in our Print Technology Center located in Offenbach am Main, Germany."
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