Product of the Month: Manroland Sheetfed Evolution Series

What does the machine do?
Manroland Sheetfed machines are high-performance offset printing presses designed for commercial, publication, and packaging printing. These machines offer precision, efficiency, and reliability, ensuring superior print quality across various substrates, from paper to board. They support advanced automation, fast job changes, and high-speed production to meet the demands of modern printing businesses

Which are the different models?
Manroland Sheetfed offers a range of offset printing presses for various applications. The Roland 700 Evolution Series is a premium sheetfed offset press known for its advanced automation, high speed, and exceptional print quality, making it ideal for commercial and packaging printing. The Roland 700 Evolution Elite has a standard speed of 16,000 sph, with options for 18,200 sph, while the Roland 700 Evolution Speed runs at 20,000 sph. The Roland 900 Series is a large-format sheetfed offset press designed for high-volume printing of posters, packaging, and displays, with the Roland 900 Evolution achieving a speed of 16,500 sph.

Is there anything in the machine, which is available as a standalone, if the equipment is modular?
Manroland Sheetfed machines are modular, enabling customisation based on printing needs. Standard components and features are available, while options include the Ultima configuration for special finishes like UV and inline foiling, an inline foiler for premium print finishing, and Integration Pilot Plus 2.0 for workflow optimisation. The Auto Pilot feature allows simultaneous washing of plates, blankets, and impression cylinders, achieving production changeovers in under three minutes. Inline Inspector 3.0 automates job transfers and verification, while InlineColorPilot 3.0 measures and controls colour and register automatically. This modular approach allows printers to scale and upgrade their equipment according to production requirements.

When was the equipment launched?
The Roland 700 Evolution was officially launched in 2014 as the next-generation sheetfed offset, a completely new press design from Manroland Sheetfed. It introduced advanced automation, ergonomic design, and cutting-edge printing technology to enhance productivity and print quality. The Roland 700 Evolution was further upgraded in 2022.

What was the thought process when the equipment was conceived?
The Roland 700 Evolution and Roland 900 Evolution prioritise innovation and efficiency in the printing industry. Designed for higher speeds and quicker makeready times, they maintain print quality through advanced features like TripleFlow inking and new dampening technology. Automation is enhanced with Pilot Plus 2.0 and intelligent workflows, reducing the need for human intervention.

Sustainability is a key focus, with energy-efficient components and eco-friendly technologies. Their user-friendly design makes them easier to operate. Overall, these presses set new standards in offset printing, combining technology, reliability, and readiness for the future.

What kind of substrates it can handle?
Manroland Sheetfed presses, including the Roland 700 Evolution and Roland 900 series, are built to handle various substrates such as standard coated and uncoated paper for commercial printing, cardboard and folding cartons for packaging applications, and plastic materials like PVC, PET, and polypropylene for specialty uses. They also accommodate metallised and foil boards for premium packaging and different label stocks. Capable of processing thin paper down to 0.04 mm and thick board over 1 mm, these presses utilise advanced feeder, inking, and drying technologies to deliver excellent print quality across diverse materials, catering to multiple industries.

What is the target market(s)?
The target markets for Manroland Sheetfed machines, especially the Roland 700 Evolution and Roland 900 Evolution, include commercial printing for high-quality brochures, magazines, and catalogs, as well as packaging printing for folding cartons, labels, and premium packaging in sectors like FMCG, pharmaceuticals, and luxury goods. They also cater to publication printing for books and periodicals that require precision and consistency, along with specialty printing for high-value applications such as cold foiling and UV coatings. These markets seek high-speed, high-quality, and cost-effective printing solutions, making Manroland machines ideal for printers aiming to improve efficiency, automation, and sustainability.

How fast is it?

• The Roland 700 Evolution Elite has a speed of 16,000-sph with an option for 18,200-sph.
• The Roland 700 Evolution Speed runs at speeds of up to 20,000-sph, optimised for high-end commercial and packaging applications.
• The Roland 900 Series ranges up to 16,500-sph, depending on the configuration and substrate.

What are the USPs of the equipment?
The USPs of Manroland Sheetfed presses include superior print quality with TripleFlow inking and Inline Color Pilot for vibrant colour reproduction. They can print up to 20,000-sph with fast job changeovers and simultaneous plate loading, enabling less than a minute for multiple units. Advanced automation through Integration Pilot Plus 2.0 enhances efficiency and predictive maintenance reduces downtime. These presses handle a variety of substrates, making them ideal for commercial and packaging printing. They are energy-efficient with low ink consumption and waste reduction, promoting eco-friendly operations. The modern design features an intuitive touchscreen for seamless operation. Simultaneous plate loading allows for fast job changes without manual intervention. The TripleFlow inker offers exceptional control and consistency throughout the print run, significantly reducing waste. Manroland presses provide unmatched efficiency, quality, and innovation for the printing industry.

How easy is it to use?
Manroland Sheetfed presses are user-friendly, equipped with advanced automation and intuitive controls. The Integration Pilot Plus 2.0 Workflow offers smart presets and remote monitoring, while AI-driven automation streamlines operations. The Inline Colour Pilot ensures automatic colour and register control, minimising manual adjustments. An ergonomic touchscreen interface allows for easy navigation, promoting quick learning, reducing operator workload, and maximising production efficiency.

What training and support are on offer?
Manroland Sheetfed offers extensive training and support to boost productivity and ensure smooth operation. This includes on-site and remote operator training, 24/7 technical support, and scheduled preventive maintenance to minimise downtime. They also provide continuous learning through workshops and access to digital support tools. Pricing varies based on automation and custom needs. Over 1,200 Roland 700 and 900 Evolution presses are successfully operating worldwide, with expected growth in 2025-26 and beyond.