New postpress press helps converters optimise flexo and litho carton production costs and increase operational efficiency
HP is introducing its latest high-speed digital press for corrugated: the HP PageWide C550 Press. The advanced single-pass platform enables converters to optimise manufacturing costs and improve operational efficiency in the production of corrugated packaging.
Based on the proven technology of the C500, the C550 uses HP Thermal Inkjet technology and water-based inks to deliver consistent offset print quality at high production speeds, supporting packaging companies' circular economy goals1.
With a print speed of 90 metres per minute, the C550 is capable of producing high-quality flexo and litho cartons at a consistent speed without slowing down. It also helps converters optimise inventory, reduce obsolescence and speed up turnaround times with digital printing technology.
The C550 enables better economics, greater production versatility and more sustainable packaging solutions. It therefore represents an opportunity for business growth for converters facing increasing supply chain challenges. The C550 enables them to take on jobs that require high flexibility. This can only be achieved with digital production.
David Tomer, general manager of HP Post-Print Corrugated Solutions, says: "HP continues to invest in the packaging market. In doing so, we are creating new opportunities for packaging converters and brands - they are benefiting from the analogue to digital transformation. We are very excited to deliver the C550 for the corrugated industry. It builds on the success of the C500 and enables converters to economically produce flexo and litho cartons at high speeds without slowing down the C550. We are continually working on innovative solutions that not only improve post-print stability and converter productivity, but also meet brands' packaging quality and flexibility needs."
Scheduled to be available for installation later this year, the new HP PageWide C550 Press runs at a consistent speed of 90 metres per minute and delivers outstanding print quality. It supports increased production capacity while reducing corrugated packaging production costs.
Saica Group is a corrugated packaging specialist and has ordered the C550 for its operation in Viana, Spain. The company is focusing on digital transformation and the use of innovative technologies to meet the growing demand for shorter and customised runs. The C550 is scheduled for installation later this year and will increase the plant's capacity for corrugated packaging production.
HP has partnered with HYBRID Software to develop a prepress workflow for packaging that simplifies the transition of artwork from litho and flexo formats. HYBRID PackZ offers a unique blend of automated actions and dedicated prepress tools. The professional PDF editor prepares designs for any printing process by enriching them with priming and finishing separation, controlling colour sets and object-based screening and trapping, and creating dynamic marks and panels. HYBRID PackZ enables C550 processors to efficiently prepare files and reduce errors, making prepress easier and more productive.
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