Computer-operated vacuum and blow systems are said to make the printing process more efficient. Ultra Litho in Johannesburg has therefore commissioned the German press manufacturer KBA to install such a system in its new press, a 32 metre long Rapida 105.The system, called Piab Vacuum & Blow System, has been developed by the Swedish engineering company Piab and can be operated both from a PC on the printer's console as well as manually at the feeder and the delivery unit. According to the company, it is possible to reduce the make-ready time significantly by saving previous settings, thereby resulting in increased productivity.

The Piab Vacuum & Blow System makes it easy to check and control the vacuum and blow air levels which transport the sheets of paper in the printing press, and Ultra Litho has chosen a solution with 15 pumps in two cabinets.

"Previously, the printer had to feed in all the parameters prior to each print run," says Johannes Naumann, Director of Engineering at KBA. "The printer can now easily save and recall the operating data for the press, so reducing the make-ready times. The time saved means that the print shop is able to take on more jobs and so increase its turnover and profitability."

According to Ultra Litho, the system works superbly, and as Piab's pumps are driven by compressed-air they produce lower noise levels than electromechanical pumps. The system does not generate any heat either, which contributes to a better working environment and higher print quality. Other benefits included lower energy consumption, minimal service requirements and improved operating economy.

Easy to install
"The vacuum and blow system is also easy to install in older printing presses," says Jan Schieche, head of Piab's graphic industry market segment. "It comprises three main components: cabinet containing Piab's compressed-air-driven pumps, a computer program and manual controls. A PC is normally used to monitor and control the vacuum and blow levels. As a backup to the computer controls, it is also possible to operate the pumps manually."

Ultra Litho, which specialises in four colour printing, is reported to be the first in the world to install a Rapida 105. The press can print ten colours straight or five colours with coating plus five colours with coating.

Piab develops, designs and markets products within the field of industrial vacuum technology. The products are primarily used in materials handling and production processes, such as in the packaging, automotive, graphics and chemical industries worldwide.


For more detailed information, please contact:
PIAB AB, Jan Schieche, Market Segment Manager
Box 4501, SE-183 04 Täby, Sweden
Tel. +46 8 630 25 10
Fax +46 8 630 26 90
E-mail: jan.schieche@piab.se
Website: www.piab.com

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