Ink World staff12.18.20
When more than three-quarters of your work constitutes printing on non-traditional substrates such as plastics, vinyls, rigid vinyls, PRV, and PETG, a fully-automated press with LED-UV capabilities is a necessity.
Rand Graphics, a full-service print specialist based in Wichita, KS, is preparing for the 2021 spring delivery of a new Koenig & Bauer Rapida 105 six-color 41-inch press with LED-UV curing technology to provide a significant advantage in running these challenging substrates more efficiently and providing its large-format POP clients with even higher quality.
“This new press investment will significantly streamline our production and increase our overall efficiency and productivity,” said Randy Vautravers, president of Rand Graphics. “Having the Rapida equipped with LED-UV provides us with a low-temperature exposure on our heat-sensitive substrates. That type of work makes up more than 70% of our output with the rest coming from conventional papers. We’re always cognizant of reducing waste since these specialty substrates are expensive.”
Vautravers has also chosen to equip the new Rapida with a full closed-loop solution, which ensures that complete information is available to the entire company through all process steps. Management is provided with a 360° overview of all company activities.
“One of the many reasons that customers seek us out is our ability to partner with them using a consultative approach,” said Vautravers. “We can offer them many different options, due to the array of print production solutions on our pressroom floor. Being located in the middle of the country allows us to reach both coasts quickly and easily with lower shipping costs.”
Its existing Koenig & Bauer Rapida 205 81-inch press – the largest in the world – will continue manufacturing at its present location.
The new Rapida, which is replacing a Koenig & Bauer Rapida 105 six-color delivered in 2014 and a competitor’s press, will be installed alongside the Rapida 205.