Lüscher AG Maschinenbau presented CTP innovations at drupa 2012, drawing crowds at its stand.

The live events created a stir with the first public demonstrations of the 8-page XDrum! UV CTP system with complete automation system, the large-format MultiDX! 240 and the innovative Accent coating plate for offset printers.

“We are very pleased with the number of visitors this year,” said Anton Tanner, COO of Lüscher. “There was a high level of interest among expert visitors, proving that our product innovations are tailored to customer needs.” For Anton Tanner, the experience has been positive. “drupa 2012 gave us a platform to present our innovative CTP products in person, to maintain existing customer contacts and to generate promising new prospects.”

Cutting edge UV technology in a CTP system
The highlight was the ground-breaking 8-page XDrum! UV CTP system, which was launched at drupa 2012. Lüscher, a globally active manufacturer of technologically advanced imaging systems, joined forces with Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG to combine two cutting-edge technologies and to develop an innovative external drum system that makes use of UV technology. The new XDrum! UV CTP system is a cost-effective solution particularly for customers with an annual plate throughput exceeding 15,000 m2 . Lüscher‘s high-performance UV laser system for the imaging of conventional offset printing plates offers impressive reliability, outstanding imaging quality and enormous versatility in the platemaking process.

Huge range of CTP system applications
Another highlight that excited visitors was the large-format MultiDX! 240 flat-bed CTP system. This more highly developed version of the proven MultiDX! 220 can process print forms in formats up to 1300 x 1100 mm, using a unique hybrid technology to process flexographic, offset and letterpress plates, all standard flexible and rigid screen printing forms, and photoresist plates for use in hot foil, embossing and punching applications. This improves the customer‘s flexibility and operational efficiency. The resolution of up to 10,000 dpi guarantees outstanding print quality. It is a versatile device that can be deployed anywhere in packaging and job printing, and also in industrial printing. The modular design also means it can be adapted to meet customer requirements.

World premiere of the Accent coating plate – a new approach to offset products
drupa 2012 was the first opportunity for Lüscher to present its unique Accent coating plate, developed jointly with plate manufacturer MacDermid. The Accent is a newly developed, top-quality coating plate for offset printers working in packaging and advertising printing. Straightforward in-house imaging and production of coating plates is now possible in offset printers thanks to the unique combination of the new coating plate and the availability of CTP platesetting systems that work at 405 nm with industrial high-performance UV lasers. The Lüscher XPose! UV CTP systems that are currently used for the imaging of offset plates can also image the Accent coating plate. With an additional investment in plate processing, the Accent plate can be produced in-house. This world innovation increases flexibility in the production of printed material. It also reduces total operational costs and improves competitiveness, the level of service and the response times of printing companies.