Web Offset is Keeping Pace

As an example of the impact of sleeve technology, Barry says that a cassette system (including fixed plate, blanket, and impression cylinder) might cost as much as $30,000 per print station on a 26˝-wide offset press. "An offset press developed by Giebeler Druckmaschinen of Langenfeld, Germany for flexible packaging applications offers sleeves for plates and blankets at a cost of roughly $5,000 per set, close to a similar plate roll for a similar-size flexo press."