Offset Print and Packaging have invested heavily in the latest hardware with a new six-colour KBA Rapida 106 with coater. Offset signed for the new device, which has a list price of €3m (£2.6m), on 28 February and will take delivery in June.
It is the fourth KBA device bought by the firm and will join Offset’s existing Rapida 142 at its 8,600sqm facility in Aylesford. The company has sold it’s existing seven-colour Rapida 105, and eight-year old B2 five-colour Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 75 to make way for the new Rapida 106.
“Our business model has changed; the packaging side is rapidly growing and the B2 offering is reducing” said managing director of operations, Vince Brearey.
“This Rapida 106 made sense as it’s our fourth KBA and so it’s easy for us as we’re used to them. It was cost-effective, it’ll improve speed, reduce waste and reassure customers. It’s perfect for us”. The investment allows the business to offer both B1 and large-format carton production, it’s specifications will “comfortably match” the performance of the outgoing presses, enabling extremely fast makereadies and minimal waste.”
The device is specified with CX and plastics features enabling a broader range of substrate handling, up to a depth of 1.2mm, as well as the ability to use both conventional and UV inks and coatings. A water cooling facility reduces heat and minimises component wear.
