Almost all commercial offset printers also use a digital press, says Heidelberg. With this in mind, the German manufacturer has designed a new generation of digital presses that not only operate independently, but also integrate seamlessly into a hybrid workflow.
DFE, for consistent color management in digital and offset printing
The new Versafire LV and Versafire LP digital printing systems feature a new Prinect Digital Frontend (DFE). Combined with a revamped user interface, this software is designed to combine offset and digital printing technologies in a flexible, standardized, productive and intuitive working environment. Consistent end-to-end color management is at the heart of this hybrid production. "Switching from offset to digital printing, including color adjustment, can be done in seconds, even at the last minute", indicates Heidelberg.
New possibilities with Versafire LP and Versafire LV
The two new presses, which replace the Versafire EV and EP, can print banners up to 1,260 mm long on one side and up to 1,030 mm on both sides, and are compatible with substrates from 40 to 470 g/m² 2 . They are also equipped with in-line calibration and automatic registering, and a range of finishing options can be added for end-to-end production (three-sided trimmer, adhesive binding, etc.).
With up to 1,000,000 A3 pages or 2,600,000 A4 pages per month, versafire LP 4-color digital press is aimed at high-volume, short-run printers. This new press is even one of the most productive toner-based digital presses on the market in A3 format, as Heidelberg points out (the Versafire LP is twice as productive as its predecessor, the Versafire EP). The Versafire LP reaches 4,500 A3 sheets/hour.
The Versafire LV is a five-colour press with a choice of seven spot colors (white, varnish, neon yellow, neon pink, gold, silver and invisible red). It is designed for a wide range of short-run applications. Its maximum speed is 3,180 A3 sheets/hour. Compared with its predecessor (the Versafire EV), it is faster, handles thicker substrates and longer formats.
"Our integrated solutions are indispensable for anyone looking to combine offset and digital printing and use them effectively in tandem. Indeed, Heidelberg has in-depth knowledge of the processes and applications associated with both printing methods, which makes us unique in the industry." assures Heidelberg CEO Ludwin Monz.
