"We knew it was exactly what we needed offering the maximum flexibility in one-pass production," said S&G managing director Andrew Jones (pictured). "But we waited until Drupa to rubber stamp the deal so that we could see the press in action."

The Merthyr Tydfil-based firm's commercial division will take delivery of a 12-colour 102 with CutStar and PCS Perfect Coat System next January.

Its unique configuration features convertible sixth and twelfth units that can be used as print units or aqueous coaters and an IR dryer and hot air knife prior to the perfecting unit to dry the sheet.

S&G commercial production manager Paul Enoch said the ability to coat and perfect work would be a benefit for matt and velvet coated stocks, which make up 40% of work, by eliminating drying time before work can be finished and sheet marking and therefore allowing high ink film weights to be run without drying and marking problems.

Steve Cavey, Heidelberg marketing manager for sheetfed B1 and B2 said PCS had been one of the biggest areas of interest at Drupa.

"As far as I know it's unique," he said. "KBA offers 5/5 with a coat, but only we can do 5/5 with coat or 6/6 - we're the only ones with the flexibility."

Story by Barney Cox