At China Print 2005 in Beijing, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg) will be presenting its new Varimatrix 105 CS die cutter (“CS” standing for cutting and stripping). This machine is the cost-effective entry-level solution for packaging printers. Already unveiled at drupa 2004 was the company’s Dymatrix 106 CSB (“B” for blanking), a die cutter able to meet the most demanding requirements at speeds of up to 9,000 sheets per hour. With the Varimatrix 105 CS, Heidelberg is enhancing its product portfolio and can offer machines to suit every customer requirement. The Varimatrix 105 CS cuts and embosses papers of 80 gsm and over, board and solid board up to 1,400 gsm and corrugated board up to 4 mm (0.16 inch) thickness. It boasts speeds up to 7,500 sheets per hour and a maximum cutting force of 300 tons. Sheet formats range from 370 x 400 mm (14.57 x 15.75 inch) up to 750 x 1,050 mm (29.53 x 41.34 in). The Varimatrix 105 CS will be available at the beginning of 2006 on the Asian, European and Central and South American markets. As a cost-effective solution for entry into die cutting and embossing, the Varimatrix 105 CS scores well thanks to its high flexibility and short makeready times. User guidance via a touchscreen display ensures easy handling and even small jobs can be processed productively. The variable chase is designed for different cutting die dimensions and can also take up existing die-cutting tools. The machine also features a pre-piling device ahead of the feeder which is operated manually to precisely align the sheets, thereby assuring reliable die-cutting. The feeder can also work with disposable pallets. Double sheet detection in the feeder itself ensures smooth and accurate sheet infeed. To enable the sheet material to be processed accurately, the side lay can be directly switched from pull to push mode on both sides of the machine. In the cutting station, stripping is performed using dedicated tools or upper and lower pins. The gripper fingers are opened individually to ensure exact and straight-edged depositing of the sheets. Waste from the gripper margin is automatically removed by conveyor belt. With Varimatrix 105 CS, Heidelberg is launching the first product on the packaging market to arise from its cooperation with SBL, its Taiwanese partner.