Print providers are often under intense pressure to deliver finished products in the shortest amount of time. For M13 Graphics in Schaumburg, Ill., speedy turnarounds are especially critical.

M13 has earned a reputation for super-fast service using the Web-to-print business model, sheetfed equipment and energy-curable inks and coatings. The company equipped a recently installed six-color, 40-inch press with the Hi-Cure UV system from Grafix USA.

“UV printing gives us the results that our customers demand with improved efficiency,” said Dan Banakis, president of the $7 million firm. “Printed materials are completely dried right at the press. All postpress finishing processes can be accomplished immediately after printing.”

M13 specializes in gang-run printing of corporate identity materials, marketing collateral, postcards, brochures and flyers. In addition, the printer caters to ad agencies and brokers, producing high-end, custom commercial projects.

Printing online orders in large quantities with many different print jobs laid out on the form saves time and reduces the costs of making printing plates and other setup fees. Adding UV dramatically shortens turnaround times.

“We can offer lower prices on rush deliveries,” Banakis explained. “For instance, a customer can place an online order for business cards or postcards today. The project is printed on third shift tonight. It is ready to be picked up in the morning.”

The Grafix UV-curing system at M13 includes three interdeck UV modules. Docking stations on three units enable the interdeck modules to be moved easily to other printing units without tools. At the back end of the presses are three UV lamps.

“The Grafix system came highly recommended,” Banakis said. “It is superior to another UV system we had. The press operators are very happy with this new system.”

To ensure customers the greatest application versatility, the press also features Grafix infrared drying and powder spraying for switching to conventional inks and coatings.