Cartonmaker Caraustar purchases a 33.5-in.-wide VSOP web press (above) from Dutch pressmaker Drent Goebel (www.drent-goebel.com). The machine, which has seven offset-printing towers, one flexo station and electron-beam curing, will be installed at the company's Grand Rapids, MI, facility next spring.

Variable Sleeve Offset Printing (VSOP) provides for variable repeat lengths in offset. Only two lightweight sleeves need to be changed when switching repeat lengths. “The concept of variable-size sleeves in offset is where the market is heading,” says Paul Curtis, Caraustar vice president of manufacturing-folding cartons. The system's EB curing is important because this drying technique produces high gloss and yet is widely accepted by food producers and packagers—Caraustar's primary carton customers.

“We decided on offset because our clients are demanding very high-quality graphics,” Curtis adds. “While flexo continues to improve, offset sets the standards. Also, the making of offset plates is inexpensive compared to flexo.

“Furthermore we see a decline in the number of packages that are printed in one run. Speed-to-market is also becoming shorter every day, therefore we need a flexible printing press with short make-ready times. The concept of variable repeat web offset is perfect for the markets we are in and wish to pursue. We consider it to be future proof.”