MPS Adds 18-unit Speedmaster XL 106

Multi Packaging Solutions (MPS), part of WestRock, has installed the world’s first Speedmaster XL 106 with 18 units at its Scottish site in East Kilbride. MPS is responding to the high level of customer demand on the part of designers and brand owners for a wide variety of finishing options and premium quality.
 
The new press is the most versatile machine that Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg) has ever produced for packaging printing in the premium sector and has now passed its final acceptance tests. It comprises 11 printing, three coating and four drying units, as well as the FoilStar in-line cold foiling system.
 
To facilitate zero defect production and top color quality, the Speedmaster XL 106 is equipped with the new Prinect Inspection Control 2 and Image Control 3 quality and color measurement systems. For more than a year, MPS monitored a field test with Image Control 3 on its 17-unit Speedmaster XL 106, and was impressed by the new options.
 
“With the new 18-unit machine which, by the way, is positioned right next to the 17-unit machine, we have once again made a significant investment within our global activities,” said Tim Whitfield, EVP European Branded Consumer, MPS. “With the perfectly equipped Speedmaster XL 106, we can implement even more processes in-line, with 100% quality assurance, and thus ensure that we meet the requirements of some of the most well-known brands in the world.”
 
One example application for the Speedmaster XL 106, which prints at a top speed of 18,000 sheets per hour, is the production of folding whisky cartons with printing on the back, cold foil finishing and double coating.
 
“Our portfolio of products ranges from premium spirits to high-quality fine confectionery. Brand owners can now give their packaging even more colors and foils, as well as matt, gloss and pearlescent effects, with spot and solid finishes,” added David Rae, print champion at MPS East Kilbride. “Most of our jobs are produced with metalized cardboard. Image Control 3 gives us the opportunity to measure and control the opaque white using a completely normal print control strip for the first time. The color values required are now much easier to save and call up, and the entire system is more user-friendly.”
 
This is of even greater value as currently more than 600 colors are saved in the archive at MPS – from colors for cardboard with a metalized coating to uncoated and coated papers. In addition, 90% of the colors are spot colors and are adapted in line with each individual customer.