Straight & Narrow

Alternatively, digital presses can be used for both labels and folding cartons. A web-fed model, such as the HP Indigo WS6600, prints 12.5 inches wide on a 13.4-inch web, and the sheet-fed Xerox iGen handles sheets 14.3 x 26 inches. For more width—which translates to greater throughput—Xeikon's 3500 system supports web widths up to 20.3 inches. More digital options are in the wings. However, digital presses all require additional third-party systems for diecutting, trimming, folding, and gluing. These are typically near-line configurations that require additional workflow steps. Still, digital presses have their own appeal to folding carton and label markets independent of width, so they are a factor in the emerging folding carton market that is developing beyond the traditional channel.