Mt Barker Courier goes green with CTP upgrade

Slide 1

The regional newspaper, based in the Adelaide Hills, has converted its existing Agfa Advantage Xs CTP line, purchased in 2007, to handle the chemistry-free N92-VCF plate.

Courier general manager Bruce Marston told ProPrint the company had converted the existing chemical processor into a ‘clean-out unit’, eliminating the use of water and the need for chemical developer or replenisher.

“It was going through a lot of water, which is not very good for where Australia’s at right now,” Marston said.

“Every little bit helps. While we’re only a small print shop, the use of water is still very valuable.”

Marston also pointed to cost savings achieved with reduced energy costs, as well as not having to buy developer.

Marston estimated that the company ran through around 500 plates a month.

The Courier is produced on a Goss Community two-tower press. The company also produces plates on a sub-contract basis for another printer using a Komori two-colour press.

Earlier this year, another regional paper, the Renmark-based Murray Pioneer, said water-saving was behind it decision to upgrade its Advantage system earlier this year.

Agfa Oceania newspaper manager Steve Marshall said the N92-VCF plate was now running on “more than a dozen Agfa CTP devices in this region”.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter

Leave a comment:

Your email address will not be published. All fields are required

Advertisement

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Advertisement