The new SuperSpeed ​​A105: The entry-level thermal CtP workflow for printers

Heidelberg Printing Equipment Co., Ltd. is expanding its successful super thermal CtP platemaking machine and added an entry-level model, the SuperSpeed ​​A105. The Speedmaster's concept of thermal plate-making and modularity gives printing companies a cost advantage and thus offers more opportunities. The Speedmaster A105 is also a low-cost, high-quality backup solution for high-productivity printing companies.

This design is suitable for all common format plate imaging (also suitable for offset and rotation). The maximum imaging area is 70 cm x 105 cm (27.56 ft x 41.34 ft). The platemaking volume is between 8 and 15 sheets per hour. According to the specifications and the sensitivity of the plate, the user can produce 120 high-quality printing plates per shift. The new SuperSpeed ​​A105 is a signature portrayal of Heidelberg's laser modules; secondly, this new model differs slightly from the other SuperSpeed ​​105 models in that the other Speedmaster 105 models can be configured to six laser heads in three different configurations.

Like other models, it has many outstanding features, such as: intelligent diode system, on-demand plate making, easy operation, single box or multi-box mounted models, selective drilling and dust removal device. This model integrates the Prinect workflow in Heidelberg, and uses the new Prinect Hybrid Screening and Infinity FM screening technology.

“Small-scale printing companies are also increasing their investment in CtP so that they will not be constrained by suppliers, increase their mobility to customers, and increase the reliability of production workflows. The new SuperSpeed ​​A105 is dedicated to meeting these target groups. The demand provides a new low-cost, high-efficiency, entry-level thermal plate making product,” said Andreas Forer, CtP product manager at Heidelberg, summarizing his strengths.

Speedmaster A105 characteristics explain:

Into the Prinect workflow

The Speedmaster A105 is perfectly integrated into the Heidelberg Prinect workflow and all status information on the CtP unit can be transferred to the JDF Basic Prinect Integrity Prepress software. Indochina Star RIP software is the interface between the SuperSpeed ​​A105 and the prepress system. The device can be easily operated through the graphical user interface. RIP workflow solutions are modularly designed to meet the needs of different printing companies. With the use of Prinect Hybrid Screening and Prinect FM Network Technology, the Speedmaster A105 can also adapt to demanding high-end markets.

Intelligent Diode System (IDS)

The intelligent diode laser system (IDS) ensures that even if one diode is damaged, the operation can continue. IDS can automatically search for the neighboring areas of damaged diodes on the left and right sides to find the largest available diode group to ensure continued operation. This greatly reduces the risk of production disruptions due to equipment failures.

On-demand plate making

Demand platemaking makes the interface between the printing room and the prepress operation more tight. The Speedmaster A105 is integrated into the workflow of the Prinect CP2000 print control system. This allows print shop operators, even without any prepress knowledge, to select plates from the CP2000 touchscreen menu for plate imaging. The production order can be changed at any time. In addition, the CP2000 operator can always browse the current working condition of the printing plate.

Speedmaster A105 manual and semi-automatic production

Speedmaster A105 offers users a choice from manual to semi-automatic to fully automatic. In manual operation, the operator can insert the plate to be imaged into the plate channel, press the start button, and all other subsequent steps will be performed automatically. In semi-automatic operation, the inline processor receives the imaged plate and automatically develops it. During the loading process, the plate is transferred through the turntable, and the plate is moved to the correct position for imaging, punching, and then output. The current version leaves the platesetter and the next version enters. The speed of plate making can reach 8 facing pages per hour, and the speed of small plates will be faster.

Speedmaster A105 automatic production

The plate edition option also increases the flexibility of the equipment. It can be changed from manual edition to automatic edition of single edition box or multi edition box. All automation upgrades can be completed at the scene at any time, thus ensuring the long-term benefits of the investment.

Single-box mounted device/multi-boxed device

Attaching the single-box device to the rear of the Speedmaster is the first step in fully automated operation. It first removes the interstitial liners, feeds the plates to be imaged to the superba, and then outputs the plates through a plate processor attached to the side of the device. The multi-cassette machine consists of multiple single-cartridge loading machines and a storage plate box. It can accommodate four plates, each of which can hold 150 plates of different sizes. Automatically select plates according to different print jobs. If the Speedmaster A105 is equipped with a single box or multi-box version, it can be connected to the side of the upper box with a small-format finishing machine, thus saving space on the station floor.

Flexible loading operation

The Speedmaster A105 can also be operated manually with a single box or multi-box version. Unlike other CtP systems, the Speedmaster A105 has a rear-mounted cassette, which means it can be fully automated and manually printed.

Built-in punching system

The built-in hole punching system is another option for the Speedmaster A105, which provides the highest degree of register accuracy for Heidelberg and other brand presses. Additional punch types can be added at any time.

Debris removal system

The debris removal system removes particles and dust generated by the plate through dust filtration and suction devices. This option allows the SuperSpeed ​​A105 to use a “no-rinse” plate.

Source: Heidelberg