TechNova PoliJet

Anand Limaye, managing director of Mumbai-based India Printing Works tells Sachin Shardul, the machine gives quality with first generation dots.

09 May 2013 | By PrintWeek India

What does the machine do? 
It produces ready to print PoliJet plates which are taken directly onto the press for printing.

Did you look at any other similar machines?
No. 
 
Why did you make the purchase?
For reasons like cost saving, faster, small footprint and ease of use for experienced as well as inexperienced staff.
 
What features do you particularly like?
Better quality of printing due to first generation dot. This helps me in two ways.  A) Better reproduction to satisfy customers’ need; B) It is a stepping stone to CTP. This makes my employees aware of the technology at low cost.
 
Is there anything that you dislike?
No.
 
Is there anything that you wish it had that it doesn’t?
The machine is ideal for book printing, but it doesn’t have the feature which can provide the collating marks and auto imposition scheme. This is the most essential part of book printing. 
 
How fast is it?
Very fast. Only one operator is needed to make more than 30 plates in eight hours. In the conventional process, one requires three operators to make 30 plates in eight hours.
 
What’s the quality like?
The quality is exactly the same as a conventional metal CTP system. We have compared both side-by-side and cannot find any difference. It is best for the line work and halftones in regional language books.
 
How reliable is it?
Undoubtedly, it is very reliable. After all, it’s a TechNova product!
 
How easy is it to use?
User friendly. In the evening, before leaving the place our operator shoots the job and our assistant makes the plates from 6pm to 12pm.
 
How much time or money has it saved?
When you take labour into account, then you can say we have saved about 50% on production time. Plates are cheaper than the metallic plates. It consumes less power as compared to the normal CTP system. PoliJet occupies one-third space as compared to the conventional system.

Has it won you any new work?
Many. Due to its quality output with first generation dots, we added new clients to our list. The work has definitely increased. 
 
Would you say that it offers value for money?
Yes.
 
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation or after?
Not much. And whenever it occurred the team of TechNova was at a phone call distance. 
 
What about the pre and after-sale service?
The technical support and after sales services from TechNova has been excellent. These qualities make them  the best manufacturer and supplier.
 
Who do you think the machine is right for?
Those printers who are specialists in large volume book printing.
 
Under what circumstances would you buy another?
Increased workload or as and when I upgrade.

Conclusion
User’s verdict
Speed 4/4
Quality 5/4
Reliability 5/4
Value for money 4/4