These include an enhanced long-sheet capability, new coating and HD Dry Ink options for the fifth imaging unit and an automated imaging cylinder cleaning system.

The enhanced long-sheet capability extends the current maximum sheet size from 356x914mm to 356x1,000mm and the maximum printable area from 342x898mm to 342x984mm and is aimed at POS, signage, gate-fold marketing materials and extended size dust jackets for books.

Presses already equipped with a Long Sheet Feeder can be upgraded in the field to support the new maximum sheet length, while the currently available Long Sheet Delivery Unit already supports 1,000mm length sheets.

All new Kodak NexPress presses from 2015 will be configured with a Light Black HD Dry Ink station as standard in the fifth imaging unit, enabling higher image quality while reducing the amount of CMYK ink used on the sheet.

In addition, Kodak has developed a new added-value finish, Dura Coat, that takes advantage of the fifth imaging unit and its HD Clear Ink to deliver a thin matt protective layer over just the printed areas of the sheet.

In addition to using less ink than traditional flood coating, Kodak said the Dura Coat finish could be used to further differentiate the design of a job; it will available on presses configured with System 15.1 software.

Finally, all new presses using Kodak's HD Inks will be fitted with a new automated imaging cylinder cleaning system as standard, which is said to reduce operator maintenance time and increase imaging cylinder life.

The system will also be available as an option on presses using non-HD Inks.