Screen says the release is part of a strategy to target the needs of high-end print operations. The company adds printers are increasingly faced with the need to respond to ever-shorter deadlines, while reducing costs and improving environmental standards.

The new PlateRite HD8900 series comprises the Z, S, and E models, each one designed to meet the needs of different production environments.

The top-end, high-output 8900Z can image over 65 plates an hour (1,030 x 800 mm plate sizes at a resolution of 2,400 dpi). While the S and E models deliver 43 or 34 plates an hour with the additional capability to combine high-precision halftone dots with a 4,000 dpi output to produce photo-quality printing.

3D lenticular output mode is also available on all models to support 3D printing. Features such as these support high value-added printing to enhance differentiation in the marketplace, according to Screen.

All models can support a wide range of offset presses by handling a variety of plate sizes from 304 x 305 mm to 1,165 x 950 mm. A new autoloader design features improved operability and flexibility and has the ability to load plates during continuous exposure.

Screen also outlines that power consumption per plate during operation has been reduced by around nine per cent and, when the new power-saving mode is used, standby power consumption is around 85 per cent lower than existing Screen platesetters.

Akira Hayakawa, managing director of Screen Australia says, “We are pleased with the introduction of the HD8900 models because they are ideal for the Australian market. We anticipate that the PlateRite HD8900 S and E models are available immediately with the Z model available later in the year.”

Screen Australia has already received its first order for the new PlateRite HD8900, with an announcement will be made in the near future.

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