The new B1 inkjet press, KM-C, is targeted at the commercial print and packaging sectors and is the first printing system Konica Minolta has developed from top to bottom.

The machine uses technology from the KM-1, giving it 1,200dpi resolution as well as strong colour stability, inline sensor and image correction and the ability to print on a wide range of paper substrates without pre-coating.

The KM-C is built around a flatbed sheet-feeding platform designed by Konica Minolta that is said to enable easy processing of materials such as cardboard and micro flute. It handles paper thicknesses of between 0.3 and 1.2mm and is capable of printing up to 2,200 B1 sheets per hour, with a maximum paper size of 760x1,060mm.

The KM-1 has been rebranded as AccurioJet KM-1. The firm said Accurio is a common and unified new brand for all of its inkjet digital press and digital workflow products that reflects the advanced, automated and accurate nature of its technology.

The AccurioJet KM-1 is now commercially available and is being shown in combination with MGI’s JetVarnish. Benefits include moving short-run offset to digital inkjet, the ability to carry out hybrid printing with the integration of KM-1 into existing offset processes, duplex printing and larger sheet sizes as well as printing on packaging board, lightweight papers and textured stock.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe president Ikuo Nakagawa said the company hopes to repeat its success with toner-based cutsheet colour printers in the packaging and industrial areas. “We have to deliver value to our customers and also make our business successful.”

Business Solutions Europe international marketing division general manager Olaf Lorenz added: “With products such as the AccurioJet KM-1 and the technology demonstration of the KM-C, we are proving that Konica Minolta’s stand is truly one that every printer with an eye on the future should have on their schedule.”