With its patent-pending Tornado technology, the firm aims to replace kit such as compressors, suction cups and vacuum pumps used in offset and digital printing.

According to the manufacturer, the Tornado system enables users to carefully and efficiently separate, transport, feed to the print unit and stack all kinds of media, including paper, cardboard, plastic and foil.

The company says the system uses less than one-fifth of the energy of conventional systems.

The technology makes use of a "whirlwind effect inspired by nature". An impeller generates recirculating air flows that create a low-pressure zone capable of lifting any kind of substrate from a distance. This low pressure zone also makes it possible to transport substrates.

BDT says the new technology opens up applications in media handling. The developer also says the technology offers the versatility to be used in a wide variety of fields. Applications, such as sheet feeders, can be configured as needed in future and adapted to any number of formats and substrates.

Visitors to drupa can experience the product at the drupa innovation park, where the company will be holding six presentations to introduce the Tornado system.