Drenthe-Gebbel, a joint venture between the Netherlands and Germany, recently demonstrated a VSOP offset press with a drum width of 1120mm at a presentation. This device is dedicated to cardboard printing and is the second device of its kind sold to the world's largest liquid packaging manufacturer.
The company demonstrated the revitalization process of the VSOP 1120 press, which includes a repeat of the live work. All changes are completed in less than 20 minutes. Larger sleeves can be replaced directly without the need for additional tools such as cranes or trolleys. This is one of the most striking features of the VSOP press for visitors.
At the exhibition, the printing machine printed on two kinds of 350 g/m2 paperboard with good results. These two types of cardboard were provided by the Mayr Melnhof in the Netherlands and Cascade in France. Rob Meij, Product Manager at Drant-Gebel, explains: “Most carton processors need to print on different substrates, so our machines must achieve good printing performance on a variety of materials. It's very important."
To the surprise of visitors, they had the opportunity to have close contact with another VSOP 1120 that was still in production. This device will be printed on a completely different material, shrink-wrapped foil. This significantly strengthens its image as a versatile press.
The Drenthe-Gebbel company will hand over parts that cannot be produced by itself to selected suppliers for production and work closely with them. During this exhibition, these preferred suppliers also demonstrated their excellent technology and products. This highlights the role of Dürent-Gebel as a full-system supplier. Mr. Meij said: “Every project starts with us and we work closely with our preferred suppliers and treat the components they produce as part of our machine.â€
Advanced VSOP Technology
Variable sleeve size offset printing (VSOP) is a new technology that enables offset printing machines to print a wide variety of repeat length prints. This makes the VSOP a truly flexible press compared to other processes. The VSOP technology combines the advantages of offset printing and soft concave technology. It is only necessary to change two lightweight sleeves to change the repeat length of the print.
With VSOP technology, Drandt-Gebbel has launched a brand new platform for web offset printing. Obviously, offset printing is the core of the system, but other printing technologies (such as flexo and gravure) can also be incorporated into this press.
Regarding the ink used, UV curing achieves the level required for safe production of food packaging. The Dürent-Göbel company can also use electron beam curing or ordinary ink, which ensures market flexibility.
Source: "Global Box Industry"