Duncan Print opens up opportunities with Speedmaster XL 105

Duncan Print Group has invested in a Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 105 sheet-fed offset printing press in order to increase production capacity and open up new markets, adding the ability to print on plastic for the first time.
 
Heidelberg was chosen as the UK packaging and commercial printer’s investment choice after it assessed four potential suitors to supply a press that could process lightweight 60gsm papers through to 1mm boards, and could run both UV and conventional inks with an easy switch between the two.
 

'For the first time we will be able to print on plastic, which will create important new market opportunities for us'

The Speedmaster XL 105-6+L to be installed at Duncan Print comes with full logistics material handling, Inpress Control spectrophotometer, automated color adjustment and semi-automatic plate changing. The order includes the Pressroom Manager workflow and a new Stahlfolder TH 82 fully automatic folder with full JDF compatibility. The Stahlfolder will be delivered at the end of March and the Speedmaster XL 105 will arrive at the Welwyn Garden City plant in May.
 

The new Heidelberg press will replace two machines from other manufacturers, but will give the company a 20 percent increase in production capacity. The six-color press will operate on a three shift, round the clock basis to produce promotional packaging, forms, brochures, posters and leaflets. Printed carton production is a key strength of the business. For these products a complete range of products from design through production and finishing to fulfillment is provided. Duncan Print plans to run the press with just three percent alcohol.
 
Bill Duncan (pictured, top), group managing director at Duncan Print, said: ‘We looked at a number of presses in the field before going to the supplier demonstrations. The Speedmaster XL 105, fitted with in-line color control, will significantly reduce make-ready time and paper waste. We will also benefit from its ability to consistently run up to its maximum speed of 18,000 sheets/hour. We were particularly impressed with the carousel unit which holds up to four anilox rollers above the coating unit. This will dramatically improve the changeover time from conventional to UV printing.
 
‘Another benefit will be that for the first time we will be able to print on plastic, which will create important new market opportunities for us.’