One of the launches was the SPeria 106 die-cutter, which could cut, but not strip, blanks, and the E version, which could perform both tasks. The entry-level cutter was a replacement for the SP Evoline 102. The upgraded version could be used for larger sheets, up to 740x1,060mm, with an increased speed of 7,700 sheets per hour. “The 106 was built with a higher output in mind. It enabled faster changeovers with the aid of Bobst’s quick lock technology,” says Moran. “It was also able to give a high performance on a greater range of substrates.”

Smooth processing
Bottom grippers were added to the 106, allowing the brush to move independently of the tablet. The machine also enabled sheet release on the fly in the delivery, which helps to ensure better transport onto the pile even when the machine is working at top speed. The new generation machines were also modified to improve tolerance on repeat jobs without too much fine-tuning of the parameters.

Much of the technology was taken from the successful mid-range SP-104-E machine. It works by using grippers and double cams to control acceleration and deceleration of sheets as they go through the machine. This enables smooth processing of paper or even 4mm thick corrugated board.

The Commercial 106 was launched at Ipex in April. It is aimed squarely at commercial printers that want to bring die-cutting in-house, but want to buy new instead of going down the secondhand route or settling for lower outputs.

A smaller version of the 106E, the new model has registration on both sides, with sheet synchronisation on the run and a central stripping board. “We focused on quick set-ups with the commercial model,” says Moran. “There is now Bobst View remote diagnosis, non-stop delivery and a tab inserter interface, plus high-speed paper cutting devices. Four machines have been sold since Ipex.” The new model costs from £265,000. There is also the offer of up to a two-year warranty.

Excellent reputation
Bobst offers part exchange for its machines and sells used equipment directly. Spare parts are held in the UK and Switzerland with the possibility of overnight deliveries. “We have an excellent reputation for support to our machines and the easy availability of spare parts has always been key to our service,” Moran explains.

There are 20 Bobst engineers across the UK and the manufacturer can offer tailor-made service contracts to its customers. There is a list of previously owned machines on the Bobst website and customers are advised to contact their local salesman for details of any specific model.

As the SPeria is a relatively new machine, only a handful have made it onto the secondhand market so far. When machines do become available, it’s usually because a printer has gone out of business, unless the sale is due to an upgrade. Bobst would either sell the machine via its company website or else go direct to a secondhand dealer. SP102 machines from the early 1990s appear more frequently and would usually fetch around £120,000 secondhand. Buyers are advised to check the register and the clutch brake system before any purchase.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Sheet size
• Max: 1,060x740mm
• Min: 400x350mm
Pile height
• Feeder: max 1,400mm
• Delivery: max 1,100mm
Speed
• 7,700 sheets per hour
Stock
• Min: 80g/sqm
• Max: 2,000g/sqm (solid board)
• Max: 4mm (corrugated board)
Price
• New SP 106: £280,000 including five days training
• Used: no recent pricing evidence for SP 106, 1993 SP 102 from £120,000
What to check
• The register
• Smooth cutting
• The clutch break system