The Speedy 56 is a compact thermal machine that comes complete with a control workstation and inline processor. "We believe we are the only company at the show with a dedicated B3 CTP machine," said Graham Moorby, joint managing director at Hans Gronhi's UK distributor Printers Superstore.

Operation is extremely simple, as plates are fed into the machine by hand. The device is fitted with a 32-diode, 830nm laser and individual diodes can be replaced separately for maintenance purposes. It handles a maximum plate size of 550x430mm, has an imaging resolution of 2,540dpi and can produce a 200lpi screen. Speed is three minutes per plate.

The machine has been available in China since the beginning of last year, with some 35 sold.

The controller, which includes normalising, imposition and inRIP trapping, is included in the price and the Speedy 56 is available immediately. "If you've got the money you can buy this one on the stand and take it home with you," quipped Printers Superstore joint managing director Richard McNeill, who said he expected the set-up to appeal to printers currently using polyester plates and looking to move to metal.

Hans Gronhi is making waves in the market with its price-competitive B3 presses - a five-colour model costs less than £200,000.

It has a five-colour GH525, fourcolour GH524 and two-colour GH522 with numbering and perforating running on its stand (6/ E530).