New modular ChromaStar series automates spot colour production, reduces ink waste, and integrates seamlessly with digital packaging workflows.
- Intelligent spot color production boosts productivity in packaging printing shops and reduces costs
- Just-in-time production reduces inventory, waste, and CO₂ emissions
- Modular portfolio meets requirements ranging from entry-level applications to industrial needs
- HEIDELBERG emphasizes its role as a system integrator
Cost pressures combined with increasing process complexity and brand compliance are shaping the situation in print shops, with spot colors often becoming a growing bottleneck in the production process, particularly in packaging facilities. Limited availability, a lack of standardization, and the fact that production is often done manually lead to delays, limited flexibility, and a high degree of dependence on individual employees. Overall, this results in a production flow characterized by increased effort, longer turnaround times, and supply chain risks in order fulfillment. With the new ChromaStar Series, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) will therefore offer a comprehensive portfolio for the intelligent production and delivery of spot colors directly in the print shop. The modular concept enables a tailor-made configuration for different production volumes, from manual batch preparation with the ChromaStar entry-level system to high-performance, highly automated solutions for industrial applications. The ChromaStar series includes the X, S, M, and P models. The concept supports the safe and efficient processing of conventional, UV, and low-migration Saphira inks for applications in the food and non-food sectors and ensures an efficient and resource-saving ink supply through precise dosing technology, short mixing times, and high process reliability. Print shops benefit from higher productivity, reproducible color results, and automation that is optimally tailored to their requirements.
New ChromaStar S at the “Home of Print” Ready for Customer Demonstrations
The ChromaStar S, compact intelligent despensing solution, is already available for customer demonstrations at the “Home of Print” in Wiesloch-Walldorf and was unveiled for the first time at the Packaging Day in June. It is designed for an annual spot color volume of one to ten metric tons.
“With the new ChromaStar series, we are offering our customers, particularly in packaging printing, a highly integrated solution that improves productivity, quality, and sustainability in equal measure,” says Dr. David Schmedding, CSO at HEIDELBERG. “At the same time, as a system integrator, we are further expanding our position in the market for consumables and tapping into additional growth potential in the packaging segment.”
Digital Workflow as the Key to Process Reliability
The ChromaStar integrates seamlessly into the workflow. The combination of Saphira Inks, Saphira Cloud, Saphira Check, and Saphira Control ensures end-to-end transparency, traceability, and consistent color results.
The solution links formulation, dosing, and color control into a seamless process. In addition, a separate proof output supports color-accurate communication throughout the process chain. As a result, color definition and production match exactly, which is a decisive factor for quality and repeatability.
Strategic Expansion of the Lifecycle Business
Today, print shops expect a complete portfolio of process and spot colors from a single source, which HEIDELBERG already offers. Saphira consumables from HEIDELBERG are an essential component of a high-performance and cost-effective printing process. As one of the largest suppliers of consumables in the printing industry, the company combines a comprehensive portfolio with a global sales and service network and local application expertise. These products, which are optimally tailored to HEIDELBERG presses and workflows, ensure consistent print quality, high process stability, and minimal downtime. As a result, customers benefit from higher productivity, lower total costs, and a sustained increase in competitiveness.
With the ChromaStar series, HEIDELBERG is systematically driving the expansion of its Lifecycle business. The solution is an integral part of the company’s strategy to further expand its offerings, particularly in high-growth segments such as packaging printing and in emerging markets in Asia and Latin America.