BOBST has launched the latest evolution of its established MASTER 6003 gravure press platform, which offers a range of ink supply optimisations and advanced automation capabilities
Swiss industrial print press manufacturer, BOBST, has introduced the new MASTER 6003 gravure press, the latest evolution of its MASTER platform which combines optimised ink supply with advanced automation capabilities.
The new press introduces an enhanced inking system in comparison to previous MASTER 6003 models that can reduce the ink required in circulation to print by 60%, which consequently can reduce solvent consumption by up to 40%.
The MASTER 6003’s LeanPrint inking system is designed to protect margins in response to run lengths shortening across the packaging sector, offering more efficient ink delivery and faster setup times.
The newest iteration of the gravure press optimises the path from ink tank to pan as well as its pipework design, facilitating a more rapid and smooth precision positioning of the pan relative to the cylinder. This can allow for more consistent and controlled ink transfer even at high speeds, without manual adjustment.
The new press also brings greater visibility of resource consumption through integrated ink measurement and energy consumption features. Using pressure measurement devices, the press is designed to provide real-time insight into the amount of ink used on the job, ink in circulation in the press, remaining ink prepared for the job, and an estimation of ink needed to complete production.
An automated cylinder engraving pre-washing system at each unit removes the need for manual cleaning, removing dried ink in engraved cells to allow for cleaner and more consistent ink transfer.
Cleaning cycles are activated on all necessary stations and reportedly completed within one minute, with the goal of reducing the risk of bottlenecks between jobs.
A redesigned auxiliary trolley also simplifies ink-tank handling during job changes, with a barrier-free configuration allowing the tank to be removed from either direction.
The trolley system includes a reference system to allow precise positioning of the cylinder according to the repeat of the job, removing the need for additional manual operations during cylinder blocking. A floor-level support position can also ease loading, while floor-level positioning helps reduce physical effort when moving the tanks.
Davide Rossello, process R&D manager for Gravure at BOBST, says: “Converters are seeking ways to improve efficiency and control costs, but without adding complexity to their workflow.
“With the new MASTER 6003, we have focused on evolving a proven gravure technology with solutions that reduce consumption, automate routine processes, and provide greater visibility of production. The press delivers on a simple objective – to improve the economics of the gravure process, without asking the customers to change the way they work.”
