Launched to meet the demand for short-run colour printing that US press manufacturer Hamada had detected was rising at the time, the B452A-I was introduced to the UK in 2000. The first four-colour B3 machine from Hamada, the press has quicker makeready times than previous models and is compatible with polyester plates.

AB Dick took over the distribution of Hamada presses in 2001. The range was taken on to complement its DPM platesetters. Giant US supplier Presstek now sells the B-series of Hamada presses after it acquired AB Dick for £22m at the end of 2004.

There are several other models in the B-series, including a two-colour B-252A, a five-colour with coater, the B552HIRC, and a two-colour with Ink Desk, the B252A-I. Since 2001, more than 70 of the B-series machines have been installed in the UK.

A basic model of the four-colour B452A-I is available from £180,000. Presstek Europe sales and marketing director Ray Hillhouse says: “This press combines precision engineering and heavy-duty construction.”

Precise performance
The unit-based chassis of the machine is made from 35mm-thick cast iron sideframes, plus a heavy-duty cast iron bed. “This ensures that the press operates at a comfortable 10,000 images per hour (iph). The cylinder layout and helicat-cut drive-guards also add precision to the machine’s performance,” says Hillhouse.

The machine comes with pre-load feeder pile capability, skewed sheet and mechanical or electronic double-sheet detection. It also offers a continuous dampening system, water circulator with chiller, and centralised lubrication.

“Pneumatic control mechanisms for the cylinders and forme rollers decrease the number of moving parts and, therefore, lessen the mechanical stresses involved, thereby extending the press life,” Hillhouse explains. “The inking and dampening systems are probably the most successfully engineered in this category of press, with 16 roller (three forme rollers) computer-derived ink distribution and externally driven oscillation rollers.”

The Hamada is equipped with a plate setting system and a plate punch for accurate plate positioning. With no tools, the operator can ‘hang’ a plate in around 50 seconds, keeping makeready times to a minimum. The blanket washing system also makes job changes relatively fast and easy.

Ink control
The standalone controller, included on all Hamada A-I models, controls the ink foundation keys, ink foundation sweep and the press registration. One of the optional extras is a CIP3 converter for ink key pre-setting. All the ink settings are stored in the computer for easy recall on repeat jobs or re-runs. There is also a small card feed attachment that can be purchased for substrates 140x90mm in size.

Presstek will sell used models directly and refurbishes any Hamada B-series presses it can. A full line of spare parts is also available. “The Hamada presses are a key element of our business. We often bundle the machines with one of our CTP units,” says Hillhouse. “These are very reliable machines and good value for money. Many of our customers have comeback and bought second or third units from us.” A secondhand 2002 machine costs around £100,000, depending on its condition.

Parts and labour service contracts can be bought with the press, as well as service only and fully-inclusive options. As with any secondhand purchase, it is advisable to examine the service history of the machine and check the cylinders, as these can be quite expensive to replace. A new version of the B452A-I with a vacuum feeder will be shown on Presstek’s stand at next month’s Northprint.