Belgian narrow web label manufacturer Desmedt Labels has recently introduced a Mark Andy digital hybrid press, which integrates Martin Automatic splice technology. Company CEO Henri Köhler pointed out: "The key to this investment is not speed, but optimizing overall productivity by extending runtime and reducing waste."
Köhler aimed to differentiate his company's label production capabilities from the competitive market. As early as 2013, he considered replacing an old flexo press. This decision led to a significant shift in his investment strategy, ultimately resulting in the installation of three Mark Andy Performance Series P7 flexo production lines, each equipped with Martin Automatic MBSF series flying splice unwinders.
The press is equipped with a web cleaner and corona treater, followed by the addition of a Pro series flexo unit on each side of the 5-color CMYK plus white digital engine. Additionally, the equipment includes web turning bars, a laminating unit, a semi-rotary vertical die-cutting station, and a slitting module. The DPro Max features a modular architecture that supports upgrades based on future needs.
Mark Andy Sales Manager Timo Donati stated: "The DPro Max offers lower printing costs with a reasonable initial investment, making short-run digital printing more attractive. Desmedt Labels particularly values its fast makeready times, inline finishing capabilities, and excellent print quality. This hybrid solution combines dry toner digital printing with servo-driven flexo units, built on a fully upgradeable platform that is flexible and scalable, providing Desmedt with a forward-looking solution to replace their existing roll-to-roll digital press."
To accommodate a smaller footprint, Desmedt Labels opted for the Martin Automatic MBSC (C for Compact) flying splice unwinder. Martin Sales Manager Bernd Schopferer explained: "We specifically designed this flying splice for digital applications to run in both directions. When paired with the Mark Andy DPro Max, it runs from right to left. This MBSC can load two full 4,000-meter rolls at once and comes with a web storage system, optimized for the speed of digital hybrid lines to prevent excessive web during the process."
The MBSC is a compact version of the Martin MBS model, retaining all its features, including the Martin EOPP software package, which guides the operator through the preparation process to ensure no steps are missed, thereby avoiding splicing failures. With a laser-assisted tape alignment system, operators can precisely adjust tape position to prevent substrate breaks due to misalignment.
Köhler concluded: "Based on my estimates, the combination of the DPro Max and MBSC adds one hour of production time per shift. We operate on a three-shift, five-day work week, so you can do the math, but a rough estimate suggests an additional 750 hours of production time per year."
