PrintPack 2025: Nilpeter premieres the FB-17

At PrintPack 2025, Nilpeter unveiled the FB-17, designed to provide flexibility and quality across printing applications. The press boasts six flexo print units, a gravure unit, and a cold foil station, as well as a VDP inkjet system provided by Nilpeter’s partner, Condot. In addition, the press is equipped with GEW LED curing technology, hot air dryers for water-based inks, and an automatic butt splicer from Erhardt + Leimer to ensure uninterrupted production.

The press offers multiple delivery options, such as roll-to-roll, roll-to-sheet, cut-and-stack labels on a starwheel conveyor, and fan-folded solutions. Demonstrations at the show included a wide variety of applications, including ice cream cone sleeves, pressure-sensitive labels, wrap-around BOPP labels, shrink sleeves, and wet-glue beer labels.

Manish Kapoor, sales head for Nilpeter India, explained that the FB-17 was developed in response to customer requests for a press that could handle both labels and flexible packaging. He added that the dual servo technology, which caters to applications under 25-microns, was another key feature that customers had specifically asked for. “This development reflects our commitment to continuous research and development,” said Kapoor, emphasising Nilpeter’s dedication to providing customers with the best possible solutions.

Regarding the machine showcased at the event, Kapoor noted that it was a demonstration unit rather than a commercial configuration. “It was made specifically for our showroom, not designed for actual production,” he explained. While sales at the show were unlikely to happen immediately, Kapoor anticipated a couple of closures soon, with deals typically taking one to several months to finalise.

In terms of the press’s versatility, Kapoor highlighted the FB-17's ability to work with different ink types, including UV, LED, and solvent inks, reflecting the press's adaptability to various materials and applications.

Kapoor also discussed Nilpeter’s robust after-sales service, which is a key differentiator for the company in the Indian market. With engineers based across locations in India and the company’s manufacturing facility in Chennai, Nilpeter can offer on-site intervention and quick delivery of replacement parts, reducing downtime for customers.

Alan Barretto, managing director for Nilpeter India, noted that the company aimed to expand its reach into the offset industry at PrintPack 2025. The show attracted a range of visitors from sectors such as packaging, labels, and separators. Kapoor reflected on the unique experience of engaging with a completely different audience, noting that the show had opened up numerous promising leads. “If given the choice again, I’d definitely choose PrintPack over other shows,” he added.