HP and KBA Collaborate on Corrugated Package Printing Press, the T1100S

HP revealed the first HP PageWide Web Press T1100S, which was co-developed with KBA. The 2.8-meter wide (110-inch) press was designed for high-volume, digital pre-print applications in corrugated package printing.

“Converters and brands alike need to create more targeted, effective packaging while reducing costs,” said Eric Wiesner, general manager, PageWide Web Press (PWP) division, HP Inc., in a press release. “HP Inc. and KBA have combined forces to bring the world’s most productive press to market, ⁽¹⁾ offering more value to high-end converters with the efficiencies of pre-print and digital in one press.”

The press is equipped with Multi-lane Print Architecture (MLPA), which splits the web into different print jobs via various print lanes, allowing for different box sizes and run lengths to be printed. Makeready is eliminated between jobs when running multiple "ultra-short" and/or short runs that are queued together. MLPA is ideal for "cost-effective customization and personalization of corrugated packaging" and "corrugated converters can now print only what is needed, when it is needed," according to the press release.

The press also comes with optional configuration features, such as auto-splice/turret rewind, primer and over-print varnish coating solutions, as well as KBA's PATRAS "Automated Paper Logistics System."

DS Smith Packaging is the first customer to install the press.

“We selected the new HP PageWide Web Press T1100S as the next step in our groundbreaking digital PrePrint program,” said Stefano Rossi, CEO, DS Smith Packaging Division, in the press release. “Our co-development with HP has resulted in the first digital machine able to print at the speed and width we need for high-volume corrugated production. It will provide our customers with unprecedented short-run flexibility and quality consistency.”

⁽¹⁾ Source: HP Internal data comparing all commercially available digital web presses available as of Dec. 1, 2015, on the market place.  Productivity refers to SQM per hours.

Source: HP.