Goss has opened its new Packaging Technology Centre to “explore requirements and new production ideas”.

The dedicated facility includes a seven-unit Vpak 500 press with EB and UV curing and flexo coating.

Goss plans to use the 650m2 centre at its headquarters in Durham, New Hampshire, to bring converters, brand owners and suppliers together. Director of product management Peter Walczak says the investment is a further indication of commitment to the packaging sector: "Converters and brand owners are looking for lower costs, higher print quality, easier repeatability, faster turnaround times and shorter run lengths," he says.

"We have created a facility to demonstrate our Vpak web offset technology and also to generate and test new concepts for improved packaging printing."

The initial Vpak system – which leverages technologies from heatset web production –  film substrates from 9 to 75 microns and on paper substrates. Web widths of up to 850 mm can be accommodated, and the repeat range is from 406-812 mm.

 
Goss Vpak 500 and Vpak 3000 web offset press models for folding carton, flexible packaging, pre-print and label applications are available in web widths from 520 mm to 1905 mm (20.5 to 75 inches) and print at speeds of up to 457 meters (1,500 feet) per minute on substrates ranging from 9 microns up to 600gsm thick. Key features include quick-change sleeve adapter technology for efficient, cost-effective size changes, and advanced offset inking, tension and control systems.

With the opening, Goss has expanded its schedule of demonstration, testing and training sessions, with educational programmes to begin shortly. The Centre will also be available as a controlled site for suppliers interested in testing inks, chemicals and auxiliary technologies for web offset production.

Pictured: Agents and members of the Goss global sales team welcome the opening