Leading Cape printer unveils new press

10 May 2006

Cape Town: Lithotech Manufacturing Cape, a division of market-leading printing specialist, Lithotech, has increased its paper cut-&-stack label production capacity with the introduction of a Muller Martini Progress S printing press – the most technologically-advanced press of its kind available internationally.

Grant McWilliams, Divisional Managing Director of Lithotech Manufacturing Cape, says, “The new press will improve productivity and turnaround time, while maintaining our high quality and service standards. The primary advantage of using this equipment is that, should customers require printing on the back of a label for a promotion or security reasons, the operation can be performed at the same time as the printing of the front of the label. Our competitors would have to undertake this operation separately.”

The label-tailored equipment is exclusive to Lithotech, and utilises advanced ultra-violet (UV) technology. In doing so, the press offers quick turnaround time and an alternative to other printing methods that require longer curing periods for inks and varnishes. The press is tailored for gum labels – a standard in the industry – usually requiring more time-intensive flat sheet litho or gravure printing. “In South Africa there has been an increase in demand for gum labels. When looking for new opportunities, Lithotech felt that there was room for another player in this sector of the market,” said McWilliams.

The equipment has additional benefits which include: water-cooled oscillating rollers, high-speed runs, its ability to re-insert reels if required and an in-line varnish unit using flexo plates.

“Growing the Lithotech brand both regionally and nationally is a major driving force. We’re always looking for ways to enhance productivity and incorporate proven international printing advances at our plants. The new printing press is the next step in the right direction,” said McWilliams.