Sheetfed Offset--Running With The Big Dogs

For DRUPA 2004, Surch expects to see even larger presses on display. The 900 series is a 56˝ press, but he anticipates at least a 63˝ offering at the next DRUPA. Customer input is currently being sought by MAN Roland to ascertain market demand for such a press.

Mitsubishi Lithographic Presses (MLP U.S.A.) recently upgraded its large-format sheetfed press offerings for the carton and label industry. The 5F and 6F are now offered at rated running speeds of 15,000 sph and 14,000 sph, respectively, according to John Santie, product manager. The range of stock on these presses has been increased to accommodate sheet thicknesses from 0.0016˝ to 0.040˝.