2004-05-06: drupa 2004: technotrans presents the new beta.line
New generation of dampening solution circulator and ink roller temperature control units for sheet-fed offset printing / series launch of the new beta.line concept scheduled for start of 2005

Sassenberg, May 6, 2004

technotrans is presenting the next generation of its beta.line series of dampening solution circulation and ink roller temperature control units, which are the world market leaders, at DRUPA 2004. The prototype version of a beta.c combination device from this series will be on display, notable for its rigorously modular design. It is thus possible to configure a wide variety of equipment versions and specifications from individual functional modules for dampening solution circulation, filtration, ink roller temperature control and cooling, while minimising the amount of space required.

Dampening solution circulation paving the way for IPA-free printing
The new beta.c unit for dampening solution circulation is equipped with countless details that have been developed in particular with an eye to IPA-free printing: Examples include:
- The digidos additive doser, notable for its "integrated functional and quality control" feature as well as its very high dosing accuracy and consumption display. Its ultra-precise dosing is one of the basic requirements of IPA-free printing.
- The new calibration-free conductivity probe developed specifically for applications in the field of dampening solution technology, for high measuring precision and reliability.
- The beta.f fine filter module, which has an innovative, 2-stage filter system, sets new standards with regard to cleaning effect and filter service life, and makes a lasting contribution to process stability and reduced maintenance work
- A hot-water rinsing system for rinsing the unit and dampening solution circuit with hot water, which dissolves contamination of the system much more effectively than cold water and reduces biological contamination.

Optimised ink roller temperature control for greater process stability
To satisfy the particularly exacting demands of process stability for IPA-free printing, the ink roller temperature control on the new beta.c combination unit displayed is equipped with a second temperature control circuit for the ductor rollers, with separate control, in addition to the standard temperature control circuit. This dual-circuit temperature control principle that is already commonplace in heat-set web offset printing, compensates for the different levels of heat generated at the ink oscillating and ductor rollers.

Control system with scope for remote maintenance
In the guise of the new multicom, the new beta.c unit in addition has a control system that makes it possible to visualise the process data on a colour display with a clear mask structure. A trend display of the key parameters of temperature(s), conductivity value(s), pH value and IPA concentration enables the printer to identify all settings and potential changes to the processes at a glance, and to analyse them easily and reliably. multicom in addition has an integral Ethernet interface that permits the rapid, focused analysis of problems. This permits remote maintenance over the Internet, which in turn increases the availability of the system and reduces servicing costs.

Water cooling via external system instead of compressor power
technotrans is the first manufacturer to offer an auxiliary outside-air cooling device by means of glycol-based cooling systems as standard on the new beta.c line combination units for dampening solution circulation and ink roller temperature control. On this system - assuming the temperature of the ambient air is sufficiently low - the entire cooling capacity for ink roller temperature control is generated economically by means of the externally located glycol recooler. The outside air thus performs a cooling function without the cooling system's refrigeration compressors needing to run, reducing the energy costs as a result.

Based on the typical average temperature pattern for outside air in Northern Europe, the energy consumption for ink roller temperature control can be cut by around 60 percent with this equipment.

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These press releases contain forward-looking statements which are based on assumptions and estimations by the management board of technotrans AG. Even though the management board is of the opinion, that those assumptions and estimations are realistic the future development and the projected results may deviate substantially from the forward-looking statements. Those deviations can be due to several factors including but not limited to changes in the macro-economic situation, in the exchange rates, in the interest rates and in the graphic arts industry. technotrans AG gives no warranty and does not assume the liability for any damages in case the future development and the projected results do not correspond with the forward looking statements.