Industry Centers

Prepress

• Computer-to-plate
Violet vs. thermal, processless and aluminum or polyesters are just some of the issues that are keeping this subject a hot topic.
• Plates
Coverage of the latest developments in aluminum or polyester materials that are exposed in analog/conventional or digital platemaking systems.
• Proofing
Ongoing developments in the use of digital and film-based systems for checking and approving color and content of a print job prior to plate making.
• Scanning
Examination of the market for and application of drum and flatbed devices for digitizing hardcopy originals.
• Workflow Software
Getting a file ready for outputting to a CTP system or digital press involves a number of processes, including preflighting, file editing, imposition, trapping, and more.

Printing

• Digital Printing
Market and technology information related to EP (electrophotographic) and ink-jet based devices for direct printing of materials from a digital file.
• Direct-to-press Technology
Learn about the pros and cons of adding laser imaging systems to the cylinders of an offset printing press for exposing digital plate materials on-press.
• Paper/Substrates
Updates on the latest market trends and product developments in the paper, film and paperboard stock sectors, including recycled and synthetic materials.
• Press Accessories
Updates on developments in dryers, color and register control systems, camera-based inspection units, and more, along with auxiliary units such as emission control systems. A key trend is the rise of in-line/on-press finishing in the sheetfed sector, having been long established in the web press market segment.
• Sheetfed Offset Printing
To boost productivity and flexibility, sheetfed offset presses are being configured with ever more color units, coaters, perfectors and UV/hybrid capabilities, as well as offered in wider widths. Learn how sheetfed shops are staying competitive and responding to customer needs.
• Web Offset Printing
Coverage of the entire industry segment, including heatset, non-heatset and UV presses, narrow to wide webs, in-line finishing and more. Business, management and technology issues are addressed.
• Wide-format Printing
Going beyond proofing, this technology can be used to produce a wide range of materials, including retail signage, trade show displays, courtroom graphics and even vehicle wraps. Aqueous vs. solvent inks, substrate management, laminating, cutting and other finishing operations are just some of the issue users are encountering in making a go of this service.

Postpress

• Bindery / Finishing
Topics include business issues, processes and technology in the postpress arena. Areas of focus range from folding and cutting to saddle and perfect binding, gluing, diecutting, embossing and ink-jet addressing.
• Fulfillment
Discussion of the business opportunities and required infrastructure--inventory management software, barcode systems, racks, bins, etc.--to provide pick-and-pack, kitting and delivery services to customers.
• Mailing
Information on software, equipment and best practices for preparing materials to be delivered via the mailstream in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.
• Material Handling Equipment
Examples of how fork lifts, pallet turners, AGVs, roll stands and other equipment can assist personal in safely and efficiently moving materials around a plant.