Expressing Digital Technology
Judging from the number of exhibitors and show goers at this year's Graph Expo 2002, it appears that printers are willing to invest in new products and technologies more so than they have in previous years. Turnout at booths displaying short-run and digital imaging systems was especially high, with a number of vendors exceeding pre-show expectations.
BTM provides a snapshot of what was available at the show, including products making their North American debut and those recently introduced into the marketplace.
HP Indigo
Among its offerings at the show, HP Indigo (www.hp.com) showcased the HP Indigo Press w3200, a web-fed, seven-color press that creates customized, high-impact products for high-volume commercial, publishing and direct mail applications. The press incorporates personalized text and images, composed and printed in real time, delivering a print speed of 8,000 8.5-inch by 11-inch full color impressions per hour.
The w3200 is fully compatible with HP Production Flow, a high-performance RIP and production management system that made its debut at Graph Expo. Also on display was the HP Indigo Press 3000, capable of printing 500 full-color brochures on demand.
Komori America
The Komori (www.komori.com) Lithrone S40 also made its debut at Graph Expo. The offset press possesses the ability to handle printing data and digital workflows. Its digital on-press function allows laser preparation of the plates. A new ink roller temperature control system increases color stability in continuous printing, which enhances the print quality. The Lithrone S40 received favorable responses from printers at the show.
"Our demonstrations were packed and visitors were very excited about the new features on the LS," says Doug Schardt, product manager for Komori America. "We did countless technical walk-throughs on the press, highlighting the new technology." The Lithrone S40 is environmentally friendly, using an alcohol-free dampener, an ink cartridge configuration and bearings that don't need oiling.
