The SigmaLine Opens Up New Business Models and Market Opportunities

As the first and only fully integrated total industrial solution for digital book production, the Muller Martini SigmaLine enables producing print products cost-effectively even in ultra-short runs thanks to the seamless connectivity of all sub-processes. That explains why Quad/Graphics commissioned no fewer than six new SigmaLine systems in Versailles (USA) in 2015.

Following the “PDF in – book out” principle, the SigmaLine enables graphic arts companies to tap into entirely new business models and market opportunities. From data acquisition during pre-press to digital printing and through to print finishing, Connex is the backbone of digital book production. The data and process management system developed by Muller Martini connects, controls and monitors all processes required for production, thereby ensuring a seamless workflow at the maximum level of automation.

“Connex played a key part in our decision to invest in the six new SigmaLine systems,” says Bill Jalbert. “The SigmaLine puts Muller Martini way ahead of the competition,” notes the director of the Quad/Graphics plant, which is located in the city of Versailles in the US state of Kentucky. As a global supplier of printing and media solutions, the American company is setting new standards in the printing industry with its products that can be adapted and combined for multi-channel marketing in a wide range of ways. 

With the book industry tending towards shorter runs owing to warehousing costs, Quad/Graphics is ramping up its investments in digital printing. The shorter runs are produced in Versailles, where Quad/Graphics commissioned five additional HP T410 color digital printing presses last year. Five Muller Martini SigmaLine systems featuring the innovative SigmaFolder II signature folder, the SigmaCollator with pre-gluing and pre-stacking, and Connex are used for the inline book block production. In addition, a sixth new SigmaLine has replaced the existing book block line of one of Muller Martini's competitors. A further SigmaLine – a first-generation system that has been producing successfully since 2010 – will remain in operation.

Last year, Quad/Graphics commissioned no fewer than six new SigmaLine systems in Versailles (USA).