Heidelberg is introducing a new version of its Speedmaster XL 106 offset press, equipped with a dual sheet delivery system. This configuration automatically separates conforming sheets from defective ones, particularly for printing high-end packaging. The German manufacturer unveiled it for the first time in Japan, where it is celebrating 100 years of operations.
Japan is one of Heidelberg's top five global markets. The manufacturer has been operating in Japan since 1926 and employs approximately 225 people there. The requirements of Japanese printers were a key factor in the development of this dual-output system.
Two stacks to separate the compliant sheets from the others
With this dual-feed feature, the Speedmaster XL 106 automatically separates non-compliant sheets from compliant ones, creating two separate stacks.
Conforming sheets can thus be sent directly to the finishing operations, while the others are set aside separately for inspection and possible reuse.
This configuration is particularly useful for printing high-end packaging, pharmaceutical applications, security printing, and the production of trading cards. In these industries, quality requirements necessitate rigorous inspection of every printed sheet.
A Solution to Meet the Needs of Japanese Printers
The development of this dual-receiving system meets the particularly strict quality requirements of Japanese printers, who are committed to zero defects.
"Many printing service providers, particularly in the sensitive packaging sector, invest considerable resources to eliminate even the slightest variations in quality." Heidelberg points out. "Japanese printing companies are a benchmark for quality, automation, and process reliability." , adds David Schmedding, sales director at Heidelberg.
On display at the Heidelberg Japan showroom, the Speedmaster XL 106 with dual-receiving capability has already seen its first sales in Japan and Europe.
Alongside its offset presses, Heidelberg continues to expand its digital offerings in the Japanese market. The first Jetfire 50 industrial inkjet presses have been installed at local customer sites.
The manufacturer has identified several areas for growth in Japan, including the automation of printing processes, the integration of AI-powered production systems, and hybrid workflows combining offset and digital printing.
