Heidelberg launches new Versafire presses

Heidelberg has announced the launch of a new line of digital presses that can function autonomously and effortlessly integrate with hybrid workflows. According to Heidelberg, digital printing remains a lucrative growth market in the printing industry worldwide accounting for some 20% of the global print production volume (PPV) and is growing at an annual rate of around 3%.

04 Oct 2023 | By Noel D'Cunha

The new presses are an updated Versafire EV and EP model version. The presses have the capacity to print banners up to 1,260 mm long on one side and up to 1,030 mm on both sides. These advanced models are compatible with substrates that range from 40 gsm to 470 gsm The machines come equipped with in-line calibration and automatic registering features. Various finishing options can be added for end-to-end production, such as a three-sided trimmer and adhesive binding.

“Our integrated solutions are a must for anyone who is looking to combine offset and digital printing and use them efficiently in tandem. That’s because Heidelberg has comprehensive process and application knowledge relating to both these printing methods, which makes us unique in the industry,” said Heidelberg CEO Dr Ludwin Monz.

The versafire LP 4-colour digital press is ideal for high-volume, short-run printers with the ability to produce up to 1,000,000 A3 pages or 26,00,000 A4 pages each month. Heidelberg highlighted that this press is one of the most productive toner-based digital presses in A3 format, with twice the productivity of its predecessor, the Versafire EP. With a printing speed of 4,500 A3 sheets per hour, the Versafire LP is a great addition to any printing operation.

The Versafire LV, on the other hand, is a five-colour press with seven spot color options, including white, varnish, neon yellow, neon pink, gold, silver, and invisible red. This press is designed for a wide range of short-run applications and can print up to 3,180 A3 sheets per hour. The Versafire LV is faster, can handle thicker substrates, and longer formats compared to its predecessor, the Versafire EV.