3404di vs QMDI Classic?

[ScotJ]

I've been comparing back and forth between the two, and not being an experienced press operater I have a few questions.

First, other than the speed differences; if I'm able to buy the 3404di and QMDI Classic (1996-1997 range) for around the same price used - which would you recommend? From what I understand, the 3404 has an IR dryer, and an extra roller which the QMDI doesn't have.

How well does the IR dryer work? how long does it take for sheets to dry with this unit?

Also - both machines are rate to run 12pt from what I understand, but I've been told by alot of people that we can run 13pt (which we currently run on our digital machine). Can I get away with running it on either press without causing any damage, or shortening the life of the machine?

Also - does the plate cost between the machines vary much, or are they in the same range?

 

[Jonelle]

ScotJ,

Other than a faster imaging & makeready time on the 3404DI, the lasers on the 3404DI produce 16 micron spot size. The QMDI lasers produce a larger, 36 micron spot size. This means the 3404DI will print at 200 line screen a lot easier than you could on the QMDI. You can print up to a 300 line screen on the 3404DI's. Because of the larger spot size on the QMDI models, you will have less detail in shadows and highlights.

Regarding the paper thickness, the Ryobi 3404 DI can take substrates up to .012". We do not recommend printing outside of the specifications, as you will shorten the life of the impression cylinder.

The QMDI has only 3 form rollers, the Ryobi has 4. The additional form roller increases print quality (less ghosting, better solids.) The Ryobi branded DI press is also fully automated, esp. plate cleaning. Cleaning cloths on the Ryobi will last for about 120 plate cleanings, while QMDI cleaning cloths will handle 26 plate cleanings. Silicone removal is fully solved on Ryobi by its state-of-the-art plate cleaning system. Roller washup is fully automated on Ryobi. The QMDI has manual solvent roller washup. Rollers on Ryobi will last longer.

Ryobi comes with sheet decurler, suction wheels and integrated densitometer. QMDI does not offer those features.

I would also point out the dual chiller system on Ryobi DI presses. The QMDI has single control chiller system which cools laser and ink at the same time. The Dual system separates laser cooling from the ink and it gives you excellent print quality. This is quite important because both systems are waterless and temperature control is one of the most important issues in waterless printing.

As you may know Heidelberg no longer manufactures DI presses. Ryobi does and their support is one of the best in the industry.

Both presses use the same plate media.

The Presstek 34DI presses support up to 20 points substrate thickness. You can get more specifications about this Presstek DI model at Digital Offset Printing Press Equipment, Chemistry Free Printing - Presstek.

Jonelle
Presstek, Inc.

 

[[email protected]]

Question

Question

ScotJ,
With all due respect why would you consider a DI when a true offset press would meet your needs?
Is it the footprint of the machine? The ease of use you have been told about? The digital aspect of the DI?
Like any printing equipment there are down sides to owning a DI. In both performance, output and ease of use.
Have you looked at samples from both a TRUE OFFSET press and a DI? Have you noticed the dull flat colors? Do you think owning and operating a DI is a piece of cake with no problems?
Have you looked at the service contract cost from Presstek for support? The cost of rollers? The cost in general of owning such a proprietary machine?
Do your home work and do not drink the digital kool aid until you are sure a DI meets your needs.
If you ready to become a Consumable Burning Engine than a DI is your press.
INMHO
OG