Oosterhout – Q.I. Press Controls (QIPC) has taken a new American customer on board. The US-based Pencor Group has decided to purchase QIPC’s IDS-3D system for colour control on its press. QIPC, the Dutch specialist in measurement and control systems for the printing industry beat off several other rivals to win the order. 

Press upgrade 

The IDS-3D cameras will be installed at the TN Printing plant, which forms part of the Pencor Group, based in Lehighton, Pennsylvania. TN Printing is carrying out the upgrade on its press so that it can expand the scope of its printing operations. The upgrade was essential, because alongside the newspapers the plant was printing, more and more semi-commercial work is coming in. “Part of the press upgrade involves the IDS-3D for automatic colour control”, explains Bob Miller, director of Pre-press Operations at TN Printing.

The IDS-3D helps ensure that TN Printing will be able to deliver a better and more stable end-product. “The assumption is that we will be able to retain our colour consistency throughout the print run from now on”, adds Bob Miller. Furthermore, the IDS-3D will enable TN Printing to make savings in materials. “One of our aims is to reduce waste.”

Integration

KBA will be looking after the entire upgrade of the press (a KBA Comet press with two-an-a-half-towers) in Lehighton and will likewise install the IDS-3D cameras. “A key factor in choosing QIPC was the fact that their equipment can be easily integrated into the KBA system”, Bob Miller continues. KBA made known the great confidence it placed in QIPC to TN Printing and, according to Ronald Reedijk, managing director of QIPC-EAE Americas, this was the decisive factor in winning the order. “We enjoy good ties with KBA and collaborate effectively. They are familiar with our system and know how it works, not unimportant aspects.” 

TN Printing is likewise positive about having a closed-loop colour control system available which does away with the need for colour bars. “It means we can continue to provide our customers with the same product dimensions as we have in the past.” It’s expected that the system will be up and running by August 2016.

QIPC can’t hide its satisfaction about landing the order either. “The project fits in with our plans to take automation in the newspaper printing industry to yet greater levels”, concludes Ronald Reedijk. “What’s more, we’re determined to make our presence even more keenly felt in the United States.”