SHEETFED DRYING/CURING SYSTEMS -- Running Hot and Cold

Printers can also benefit from the direct line of communication that comes with installing drying/curing capabilities as a press upgrade, adds Midlik. "If a new press is ordered with UV capabilities, the press manufacturer is responsible for installation, startup and warranty of the UV lamp system. When ordered as a retrofit, the UV system manufacturer is responsible for installation, startup and warranty. A retrofit also gives the printer greater flexibility in specifying which UV lamp system it prefers."

Something to Consider

With upgrades—and new installs, for that matter—low-pile presses require special consideration due to the compactness of the delivery area, points out Accel's Bain. Adding IR drying can be more problematic due to the lack of space, excessive heat buildup and premature wearing of parts, she explains. "Also, many of the safety features found on larger IR units are not available on systems for smaller format presses."

Even while touting the benefits of upgrading, the manufacturer reps acknowledge that there are real advantages to specifying a drying/curing system as part of a new press configuration.

There is a huge advantage to having a drying system specified and engineered prior to a press being manufactured, advises FDV's Fuchs. "For example, newer presses allow for extended deliveries, extensions between color units and coater stub units. Press delivery extensions not only accommodate more drying systems, but also allow time for coatings to flow out across the sheet."

The actual installation process is simpler with a new press, points out PRI's Douglas. "All the power pulls and connections for the components can be made at one time," he explains. "Also, the auxiliary equipment can be neatly located around the press."

Tightly integrating the drying/ curing system with a press can do more than improve the appearance, adds Kuehn of technotrans america. "Ordering a new press equipped with a UV preparation from the press manufacturer not only allows for the space to install the system, but ensures that all sensitive components are made resistant to UV energy or protected from it."