Hunkeler launches POPP 8 finishing line

Post-press manufacturer Hunkeler has used its biennial trade show to launch the next generation of its Printed Online Paper Processing (POPP) finishing modules, the POPP8.

Hunkeler used the event to demonstrate two new finishing lines featuring the new units, a high-perfomance roll-to-stack configuration and a mailing production finishing line.

The high-performance finishing line, which can run at up to 180m/min, is for roll-to-stack production and can produce 4-up postcards and 3-up book blocks. It is comprised of a CS8 cutting module, SE8 separation module, an LS8 stacking module and also uses new Hunkeler Workflow Manager software.

Hunkeler's new Worklow Manager integrates line control, job tracking, quality monitoring and the editor software for the DP8 dynamic perforator and HL6 laser module. 

Robin Brown, national sales manager for Friedheim International, Hunkeler's UK agent, said the new generation is not replacing its predecessor the POPP6, but will be sold alongside it.

“The POPP8 is a new generation. It’s been built because a lot of printers are running now at 22in-wide (570mm) and the POPP 6 line runs at 20.5in (520mm) .

“The POPP6 won’t disappear, but the POPP8, with the new CS8 cutter and the complete line is wider, while running speed is faster, considerably faster than most digital printers anyway. It’s wider, has more electronics, and is a full-bleed double cut-sheet based on the successful POPP6.”

Selling as separate modules, the CS8 will be available immediately after the show, while the SE8 and LS8 will be available later this year. The CS8 was beta tested in the UK six months ago.

“It was given a thorough test under normal working conditions so that by the time it comes out any little tweaks that need doing have been done,” added Brown.

Hunkeler was also showing a POPP8 mailing production finishing line, which comprises the Hunkeler-2015 launched Dynamic Perforator DP8, the Unwinder UW6, Web Merger WM8, Web Inspector WI8, the CS8 and a buckle-folder. It also demonstrated inline book production on a POPP7.

Hunkeler Innovation Days took place between 20 and 23 February in Lucerne, Switzerland, Exhibitors, a number of which showcased Hunkeler solutions on their own stands, included HP, Xerox, Canon and Ricoh.