IFS Tecnau debuts variable book finishing line at drupa

Print Solutions

In addition to the Libra One book block production system and new Stack 2325 system presented by Tecnau, distributed in the UK and Ireland by IFS, drupa will see the debut of the Libra 800. The fully automated and variable book finishing solution is targeted at short run and book on-demand printers.

At the show, the system will be configured with one input channel from roll, to slit and merge, high speed cutter and variable book block stacker, automatically delivering book blocks to the Libra 800’s integrated perfect binder. A second input channel from roll can be added to the configuration to support both 20 inch and 30 inch web width, 2-up, 3-up and 4-up impositions for the ultimate in flexibility of print and finishing.

The two main modules, Libra VB Variable Binder and Libra VT Variable Three-Knife Trimmer, can adapt on the fly to changing book formats at speed. Each book can be different from the next in thickness, page width and page height without compromising the productivity of the system. Libra 800 feeds standard size covers and cuts them down to the appropriate book size, with variable side trimming, front cut and on demand scoring features.

The system produces up to 800 books per hour with the ability to mix soft cover binding with false cover production ready for offline case binding. The optional Variable False Cover Maker is a feature for preparation of end sheets and gauze matching each individual book block size.

‘Book printers approaching digital technology are looking for flexibility and automation to print and finish short runs and book on demand efficiently,’ commented Giuliano De Marco, chief executive office of Tecnau. ‘This technology allows customers to print by order, finish by order and deliver by order, with an optimised workflow and lean logistical process. Libra 800 makes it possible to exploit in full the benefits of digital production.’