Redditch-based digital printer PSW Paper and Print has confirmed it has bought the first 2.5m Agfa Anapurna H2500i LED system. The machine, installed in mid-July, is a six-colour plus white ink high-speed hybrid UV LED-curable inkjet, capable of imaging up to 115m²/hr.
“Our aim was to replace our existing 2m wide hybrid inkjet machine with a 2.5m wide printer with LED so we could print on materials such as heavy gauge acetate. We had looked at a number of printers from several manufacturers but the LED option was too expensive whilst others did not meet our requirements. We were then planning to visit Drupa when Litho Supplies introduced us to its parent company, Agfa Graphics. Prior to the launch of the Anapurna H2500i LED we were asked to sign a non-disclosure document and invited to Agfa’s showroom in Belgium to see the machine for ourselves. We were so impressed that we placed our order and cancelled the intended trip to Drupa,” explained Philip Skinner, director at PSW.
The air-cooled UV LED lights, which can be switched on and off instantaneously, enable the Anapurna to print on thin, heat-sensitive material.
“The Anapurna was installed on a Monday in mid-July, by the Tuesday afternoon we had produced a commercial job and by the Wednesday it was in full production. The ability to print acetate covers has already increased our business,” enthused Mathew Skinner, managing director of PSW.
This latest investment complements a recently purchased Indigo 7800 digital printer as well as an extensive range of other production and finishing equipment. Its digital print division accounts for approximately a third of the group’s £2.2m turnover, is manned by nine staff and supported by a specialist team of display installers. Other aspects of the business include three retail outlets based in Studley, Worcester and Alcester offering artist, design and office materials as well as a dealership selling copiers and inkjet printers.