Austrian printer Sandler doubles down on KODAK MAGNUS Q800 Platesetters

Austrian printing firm Sandler is set to overhaul its prepress operations by introducing new, cutting-edge CTP (computer-to-plate) technology from Kodak. Located in Marbach an der Donau, Sandler aims to boost its platemaking capacity and level of automation through the acquisition of two KODAK MAGNUS Q800 Platesetters equipped with T-Speed Plus – currently the fastest 8-up CTP system available in the industry.

Since its establishment in 1982, Sandler has built a reputation across Austria for its exceptional commercial printing services, including packaging and folding carton printing, as well as personalized print products and lettershop services. The company further enhances its offerings with a range of print embellishments. Operating three sheetfed offset presses that collectively feature 32 printing and coating units in B1 (8-up) format, Sandler utilizes approximately 90,000 printing plates annually.

The new MAGNUS Q800 Platesetters, which will replace the 2016 models currently in use, are capable of processing up to 84 plates per hour each. This represents a 40% increase in productivity compared to the older models. To accommodate this high throughput without the need for frequent manual intervention, one of the new platesetters will be paired with a Multi-Pallet Loader (MPL) that can handle two pallets, each loaded with up to 1,500 plates. The other new platesetter will be served by a Single Pallet Loader (SPL). Once installed, these new systems will continue to be managed through the KODAK PRINERGY Workflow Platform, which oversees prepress processes and plate imaging.

Hannes Sandler, Managing Director of Sandler Gesellschaft m.b.H. & Co. KG, expressed his confidence in the decision to reinvest in Kodak’s technology. “Given our positive past experiences with the quality, productivity, and reliability of MAGNUS CTPs, opting for Kodak again was a logical choice,” he explained. The enhanced throughput capacity of the new platesetters will allow Sandler to efficiently prepare more plates in less time, a crucial advantage given the industry’s trend towards shorter print runs. Additionally, the integration of MPL automation aligns with Sandler’s strategic commitment to advancing automation and robotics across all production sectors, aiming to boost productivity and lessen the physical strain on staff.

Denisse Goldbarg, Head of EAMER Sales and CMO at Kodak, also commented on the partnership, “We are thrilled that Sandler, a valued client, has decided to continue with Kodak’s high-performance CTP technology. The combination of two MAGNUS Q800 T-Speed Plus platesetters with pallet loaders provides an unmatched solution in terms of productivity and automation.”

The installation of the new KODAK MAGNUS Q800 Platesetters at Sandler is planned for the fall of 2024. This upgrade is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of Sandler’s operations, solidifying its position as a leader in the Austrian printing industry while continuing to meet the evolving demands of the market with innovative solutions.