Aubagne, France - IMPIKA, world leader of industrial inkjet, will take centre stage next month at Ipex Birmingham with the world premiere of the groundbreaking iPress 2400. This press is the first in a series of 'Offset class' inkjet printers whose performance is unequalled in single-pass, colour DOD inkjet technologies, opening a new era for high quality commercial printing.

Strong partnership and full mastering of inkjet technology
The iPress 2400 concept is based on a new technological platform fully designed and manufactured by IMPIKA, and based on latest generation piezoelectric modules. Performance benchmarking for reliability and robustness meet the most stringent quality requirements for high productivity environments. The iPress 2400 is the result of a longlasting close partnership with print head technology supplier, Panasonic, who will officially join IMPIKA in unveiling the iPress 2400 on stand C200 in hall 11.

Exceptional flexibility
Consistent with IMPIKA's reputation in the field, the flexible and evolving technology platform enables multiple resolutions, print speeds and output formats. The range of configurations available makes it possible for our clients to offer differentiated services across a large number of print applications.

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Outstanding Quality and Productivity
More specifically, the iPress 2400 prints over 6,000 B2 sheets per hour with a native resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi at 76 m/mn (250 ft/mn). It shatters current output standards at 2400 dpi producing at 37m/mn (122 ft/mn) over 3,000 B2 sheets per hour. At more than 200 LPI, the iPress 2400 is the leader in the digital offset print technology market.

In terms of prepress functions the machine is compatible with most software and streams provided by graphic studios. A fibre optic connection bus allows maximum transfer speeds for multiple page, high resolution inputs.

Inks and support materials
The iPress 2400 uses the latest generation of water-based, pigment-or dye-based inks. Inks are compatible with the most recent deinking techniques guaranteeing a first-rate ecological solution. Ink formulations may be adjusted for the print job, allowing colour reproductions very close to values achieved using traditional offset inks. Moreover, the inks work well over a wide range of professional papers and films whether coated, matte or gloss. In addition, the iPress 2400 optimises drying functions with regard to the printed surfaces, whether for offset paper or currently used films for packaging and labels.

The variety of printable surfaces and thicknesses calls for a high quality paper transfer process which combines speed with precision. The machine works with roll-to-roll or roll-to sheet stock using multiple standard formats up to a maximum width of 520mm. A sheet-fed model is under development and will be available by mid-2011. The iPress 2400 is compatible with a number of finishing components. A sample integration using Hunkeler components will be on view at the IMPIKA stand.

It should be noted that the IMPIKA printing solution is the product of a fully integrated design and manufacturing system, conceived and operated by a visionary team of inkjet experts who pride themselves in their customer orientation. In this respect the iPress 2400 is a competitive and cost-effective printing solution which is on a par with the best offset solutions. Given such performance and simplicity of use, the iPress 2400 is in position to become a major player in the market for offset printing of prospectuses, brochures, magazines, catalogues, labels and flexible wrap packaging…

IMPIKA CEO Paul Morgavi explains: "With iPress 2400 we are introducing into the market place a unique product, unmatched in the digital printing world. This new press, at the cutting edge of inkjet technology, will allow printers to produce offset quality printing with all the advantages of digital technology. By eliminating pre-press functions as well as streamlining registry adjustments we are offering printers a range of new opportunities for growth in bespoke services as well as low-cost short and medium print-runs. The iPress 2400 represents for us a first step in our strategy to enter the offset print market. At term the Impika 'Offset Class' will be built around specific opportunities we see in the marketplace."

Broadband printing
In addition to the world premiere of the IMPIKA 'Offset class' inkjet printers, visitors to the Impika booth will witness the world premiere of the 28-inch inkjet print head. This amazing piece of technology enables printing of widths up to 711mm and presages the IMPIKA iPress brand range. The new print head is compatible not only with the new 1200 dpi platform but with existing 600 dpi platforms used in the iPrint product range for newspapers, books and other applications…

Design
IMPIKA continues to innovate in the field of industrial design, with the recent 'makeover' of its acclaimed iPrint series. The iPress 2400 displays a family resemblance while affirming its own identity. Its breakthrough design is based on ergonomic ease of use and a style that redefines the standards of offset technology.