The B2 press also has double-diameter transfers and impression cylinders, and a RCI remote colour system, and uses many technologies that were ahead of its time when it was launched. As a result, it became a formidable smaller version of MAN Roland’s 800 machine.
Heavy stocks
“With the 200, users have the choice of running heavier materials through it than on previous, similar-sized presses,” explains Gary Doman, director of the sheetfed and post-press division at Man Roland GB. “This makes it an ideal choice for commercial printers, as they can actually step into new markets such as stationery printing and printing on cardboard.”
It can also process thin materials, with stocks ranging from 0.04 to 0.8mm. Another attractive aspect of the 200 is its small footprint, making it ideal for those printers with limited space. “With a built-in delivery, the 200 is a very compact machine, yet it is industrial strength,” says Doman. Many printers used it as an entry-level press or a supplement for larger presses.
The speed of the original 200 was 12,000sph, a productivity capacity that increased to 13,000sph in the mid-’90s. The machine was manufactured until 2002 when the next generation, the 200E (pictured), was launched at Ipex. During its production life, MAN Roland estimates it has sold between 300 and 400 units of the original 200 in the UK.
While the old 200 was a common impression cylinder machine, the E version is a completely different animal. Modelled on the Roland 700, it is now a unit construction machine, with each unit comprising its own double size impression cylinder. There is also a suction feedboard and pneumatic side-lays, plus a remote controlled register.
The new 200 has closed-loop colour control, which controls ink profiles during production so that an operator will not have to make ink changes on the run. Further advances include semi-automatic plate loading and an automatic blanket wash. The old 200 press, sold as a two-colour machine, was £150,000 at launch, while the four-colour machine cost £340,000. The new 200E is – depending on specification – £170,000 and £400,000 for a two- and four-colour machine respectively.
In 2002, the 200E was available in only two-, four- and five-colour configurations. At the end of last year, the Roland press became available as a six-colour model. The additional printing units can be used for specialist applications such as spot colours, print varnish, inline die-cutting and perforating. For carton printing, there is the option to print full solids without gutters.
Popular press
MAN Roland will sell secondhand presses as and when they become available. “Used machines have been popular with smaller commercial printers that need to produce a broader range of work and produce it quickly,” Doman explains. A four-colour 200 from the mid-’90s, with delivery and installation, will cost around £180,000.
For enquiries on secondhand Roland 200 presses, contact MAN Roland GB or Used Machinery Direct. As with any used press purchase, Doman advises that the buyer should check for cylinder and ink roller damage.
However, he assures that, even in its second life, a Roland 200 will be a long-term investment. “These are extremely robust products and a well-maintained early-’90s machine will comfortably last another 20 years.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Max speed
• (post mid-90s) 13,000sph
Max sheet size
• 520x740mm
Max image area
• 510x735mm
Stock range
• 0.04 to 0.8mm
Price
• New four-colour: £400,000
• Used 1995 four-colour: £180,000
What to look for
• Cylinder damage
• Condition of ink rollers
