GEW diversifies into wide web offset and converting

With the launch of its IsoCure UV curing system for web offset applications, GEW has announced its intention to enter new market sectors of the printing and converting industries. The company has its sights firmly set at diversification into both the newsprint and commercial web offset markets as well as coating and silicone release with a UV system it says will bring unprecedented savings to users.

IsoCure is a versatile, fully water-cooled UV curing system designed for medium and wide format printing and coating applications in arc lengths from 50cm (20”) up to two meters (78.75”). It can be fitted to existing machines or OEM specified on central impression, in-line and sheet-fed presses, as well as laminators and bridge units over conveyers. A compact, reduced cross-section footprint facilitates installation.

When asked what was different about IsoCure, managing director Malcolm Rae said: ‘Typically, UV systems require large exhaust fans, ducting and manifolds to remove the ozone and heat generated by the UV lamps when curing. IsoCure seals the lamp in its own temperature-controlled micro-climate in isolation from the plant or print room, eliminating the expenditure of ambient air for cooling and ozone extraction. Instead of being ducted to the outside of the building, ozone is safely destroyed within the lamphead. This gives unprecedented savings in UV system operating costs because expensive heated or air-conditioned factory air is no longer consumed. This also yields increased lamp life as airborne contaminants and dust particles are not sucked into the lamphead. Furthermore, since no ducting or exhaust fans are needed, IsoCure allows neater, more compact installation with significantly reduced noise levels.’

Savings can be considerable as determined during on-press tests. Cost savings for each lamp due to the reduced demand on the heating and air-conditioning load is in the area of 100/kW/year. For example on a 50cm (20”) press with 55cm (21.65”) UV lamps, operating at 160W/cm (400W/inch), using eight lamps, annual energy cost savings could amount to as much as 7,040 per press per year.

Rae concluded: ‘IsoCure represents both an economic and ecological advancement to the market place with its design and runs on our electronic e-Brick power supply that provides additional benefits in cost reduction as well reducing the users carbon footprint.’