Chesapeake joins the early adopters of digital finishing

The carton print group has ordered Highcon's Euclid digital cutting and creasing device, but has not named its destination.

HIghcon Euclid was in operation at Drupa.

HIghcon Euclid was in operation at Drupa.

CARTON PRODUCER CHESAPEAKE HAS SIGNED FOR A Highcon Euclid digital cutting and creasing machine, the largest company yet to endorse the technology launched at Drupa.

Highcon uses a laser to cut out carton blanks, and uniquely creates a creasing forme from a fast hardening polymer which is applied to a replaceable foil. It is this which makes the Euclid the first digital device of its type and suited to the likes of HP’s Indigo 30000 which is conceived as a B2 digital carton press.

DOUGIE POTTER, TECHNICAL SERVICES MANAGER at Chesapeake says: “We believe the addition of this unique digital solution can complement our existing equipment and offer more flexibility to better serve the needs of our customers.” Live operation during Drupa clinched the deal.

Cheaspeake has yet to decide where the machine will be installed, though one of its pharmaceutical plants would appear the best match for the machine. “We see it for small orders and run lengths,” says Potter. “We have had digital print for labels for some time and for cartons we are interested in developing digital printing. We’ve looked at the Indigo and Landa, but they are not there yet in terms of availability.

”DIGITAL CUTTING AND CREASING IS PART OF the solution. There is a lot of interest from customers. So we are getting the technology push and the market pull coming together.” The Highcon he believes will be suited to ultra short runs of unique product types, where short runs of repeat designs or carton formats are required, fast loading conventional platens may be preferred.

According to Highcon the majority of the carton groups are just as interested in the technology, ensuring that at Drupa they took part in discussions and saw the device in operation. “We have been delighted with the response the Euclid has received at the show,” says Nigel Tracey, sales director at Highcon. “Converters from all over the world came to see this revolutionary product, including the leading suppliers in the industry. With shipments starting at the end of the year we are ramping up to meet the very welcomed demand.”