The SPanthera 106-LER is faster, more productive and flexible than its predecessor, launched in 1995, and can handle a wider range of substrate weights and sizes.

"It is the result of a major study into the use of these machines," said the firm.

The blank-separating die-cutter is the top of the SPanthera range, which also includes the non-blanking 106-LE, which like the LER uses Bobst's ORSIS (Optical Register Sheet Infeed Synchonisation) feeder.

ORSIS' optical sensors can be set to identify the sheet edge or print marks. When used with print marks the system ensures perfect cut-to-print register.

The SPanthera, at 9,000sph, is 1,000sph faster than the SP104 and can handle sheet sizes up to 1,060x760mm, nearly 5% bigger than the old machine.

It can also cope with lighter stocks, down to 70gsm, and the same maximum of 1,000gsm. It was launched last month at the firm's open-house at its factory in Lausanne, Switzerland. The first UK model will go to Delta Packaging in Belfast at the end of May.

Story by Darryl Danielli