The B1 machine handles substrates measuring between 750x1,050mm at speeds of up to 16,000 sheets per hour. In addition, the firm claims that it is up to 10% more productive than other competing machines on the market.

The Diamond has been restyled and a range of operation and production capabilities has been introduced in order to minimise maintenance time. These include lubricant-free cylinder bearings that MHI believe will help to save up to 70 hours in maintenance time each year.

The machine also features full and simultaneous plate changing that allows plates to be removed and mounted in under a minute, regardless of the number of colour units. Waste minimising capabilities to prevent oil splatters, irregular sheet feeding and doubling have also been introduced in the press.

The exterior design has been revamped and the press is constructed out of super-plastic zinc alloy, which is claimed by the firm to be an industry first. The structural design and material choice is aimed to shield out electro­magnetic waves and cut noise in order to improve the working environment.

To aid operational handling, the firm has mounted controls on flat-sheet key panels to minimise the risk of user mistakes and job inaccuracies.

The machine is set to be launched onto the Japanese market this month at the International Graphic Arts Show in Japan, Toyko. It will be given its European launch at Drupa 2008 in May.

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SPECIFICATIONS
• Description: B1 sheetfed press
• Speed: 16,000 sheets per hour
• Format: 750x1,050mm sheets
• Features: super-plastic zinc alloy body, flat sheet mounted controls, lubricant-free cylinder bearings, fully-automatic complete plate changing, waste reductions capabilities
• Price: To be confirmed
• Contact: www.mhi-ir.jp