October 16th, 2006 – Goss International is unveiling a new generation of Pacesetter saddelstitchers at Graph Expo 2006. The systems are designed for higher net productivity, faster setup and added versatility. The Pacesetter 2200 and 2500 models deliver 22,000 and 25,000 books per hour respectively and feature servo-driven components, including newly designed hoppers that are easy to reposition within a system or among multiple systems. Both saddlestitchers are available with up to 40 horizontal or vertical hoppers, and can be equipped with a new high-speed Goss flying trimmer or Ferag SNT-U trimmer. Pacesetter 2200 systems operate with a single stitcher, while Pacesetter 2500 systems use a dual stitcher to achieve the higher output. “Building on proven servo technology we pioneered with our Pacesetter 1100 stitchers, we have redesigned the new systems to increase speed, expand the product format range and improve the signature transport and control components,” according to Toby Clarke, vice president of print finishing operations for Goss International. “We have also made setups faster and overall operation easier.” Banta Corporation installed the first Pacesetter 2500 saddlestitcher at its Maple Grove, Minnesota facility earlier this fall with a Ferag SNT-U trimmer. “We worked closely with Goss International over the past year as they finalized and tested the new design, and we feel this technology is a major advance,” according to Glen De Rossett, bindery manager for the Banta Catalog and Publishing Solutions Group. “Every component has been designed to run faster, improve signature control and reduce setup time.” The interchangeable, servo-driven hoppers are a vital feature of the Pacesetter 2200 and 2500 systems. With the elimination of mechanical drives, operators can exchange or reposition a hopper quickly. “This can change the makeready concept,” explains Clarke. “Rather than setting up each fixed hopper position according to the sequence of a new job, operators can reposition or insert hoppers that have already been set up for a specific product or signature type.” With the servo-drive technology, individual hoppers can also be taken off-line for maintenance or setup without interrupting production. A new design for the stitcher chain and transport belts on the Pacesetter 2200 and 2500 systems feature a common servo drive to ensure constant phasing. Goss single and dual stitchers accommodate variations in book thickness automatically and are also servo driven to allow independent phasing and smooth product transition to delivery. Pacesetter 2200 and 2500 saddlestitchers can be equipped with the JDF compatible Goss Omniflex system to control selective content, inkjet personalization and distribution. Additional Goss and Ferag auxiliary options, including pick-up stations, gripper conveyors and storage components extend the versatility of the systems, according to Clarke. “Servo-drive technology and a wide range of integrated auxiliaries provide unique options for single- and multi-level configurations to accommodate specific workflow or building requirements,” he explains. Goss International is the exclusive representative for Ferag products in North America.