nology into a compact, modular package. The system is engineered specifically for one- to three-color stations and space-limited top-print applications, addressing a long-standing need in these segments of the market. “InkMate is a completely self-contained ink manage- ment module featuring JB’s “Set & Forget” technology. It automatically manages ink temperature, pH, and viscosity through continuous monitoring and precise dosing. This consistency translates directly into consistent and predict- able color, faster setups and cleanups, fewer adjustments, reduced chemical usage, and a significant reduction in ink-related waste. “At the higher end of the spectrum, interest in our InKomand® precise ink management system continues to grow. Designed for larger and more complex printing envi- ronments, InKomand eliminates operator intervention from ink management and closes the loop between detection and action. “Using customer specific (learned) algorithms, the sys- tem automatically maintains optimal ink temperature and continuously monitors pH and viscosity, making finite dos- es of adjustors as needed throughout the run. The result is consistent print quality with virtually no color variation. The system minimizes, if not eliminates, operator interven- tion—an increasingly important advantage for converters. “Another area of strong growth in 2025 was JB’s Au- toWash™ automated plate washing system. As converters incorporate higher levels of recycled content into sub- strates, the need for efficient, consistent plate cleaning has intensified. AutoWash addresses this challenge by cleaning and drying all plates simultaneously at the push of a button, delivering ready-to-use or store plates in un- der four minutes. “FEFCO recognized our founder and Chairman, John Bird, with a Lifetime Achievement Award during its 2025 Technical Seminar in Rome. The honor celebrates his 55 years of leadership in the corrugated packaging industry and his widely respected contributions to innovation, sus- tainability, and industry collaboration. “In the fourth quarter of 2025, we announced the ap- pointment of JKSP Services Ltd. as our new regional rep- resentative for the United Kingdom and Ireland. JKSP will provide sales, service, and training support throughout the region as part of JB’s strategic expansion of our global support network. “As we enter the new year, we look forward to strength- ening existing partnerships, building new relationships, and continuing to support the evolving needs of the global converting industry.” Visit: jbmachinery.com . KOENIG & BAUER Dallas, Texas, Kevin Erbe reports: “Koenig & Bauer (North America), part of the global Würzburg, Germany based Koenig & Bauer Group is guided by the same principals, brand promise, and customer-centric approach of devel- oping lasting partnerships. For over two centuries Koenig
& Bauer has focused on innovation, engineering exper- tise, and providing customer-focused solutions across all market segments. We offer one of the industry’s broadest product portfolios, including a comprehensive range of corrugated presses and converting systems. “Koenig & Bauer continues to advance high-board-line corrugated solutions designed to meet growing demand
for customized machine configu- rations that enable converters to differentiate their operations while remaining cost-effective. The com- pany supports a strong market shift toward consultative sales approach- es, reflecting the increasingly specif- ic and ever-changing requirements
Kevin Erbe
of converters serving diverse market segments. “Our corrugated equipment lineup includes the Chro- maCUT X Pro, ChromaCUT High Tech, and ChromaCUT Smart rotary die cutters. One of our most recent innova- tions is the Print to Cut Register optical alignment system, which delivers outstanding register accuracy between pre- or post-printed sheets and the die-cut contour. “By reading printed targets, the Print to Cut Register system adjusts each sheet individually in the running, lat- eral, and skew directions to align print and die cut with ex- ceptional precision. Register accuracy rivals that of flatbed die cutters while maintaining the productivity advantage of rotary die cutting at speeds dramatically higher than those of flatbed systems. “At the high end of the product range, the ChromaCUT X Pro rotary die cutter represents Koenig & Bauer’s flag- ship solution. Featuring pre-settable print units and an optional pre-settable die cutter, the system enables job changeovers in as little as 3.5 minutes. The machine pro- cesses sheets up to 110.24 inches wide and 0.354 inches in caliper, with rated speeds of up to 12,000 sheets per hour, setting a new benchmark for productivity. “The ChromaCUT High Tech incorporates advanced features such as zero-defect technology to ensure supe- rior print quality and maximum uptime. Owners benefit from competitive operating costs and rapid return on in- vestment, while operators value quick setup, on-the-run changeovers, and remote diagnostics. “Completing the lineup, the ChromaCUT Smart com- bines print quality, die-cutting precision, and productivi- ty through direct-drive motors and Koenig & Bauer Cel- macch’s integrated quality control system. These solutions allow Koenig & Bauer to meet converter requirements across a range of performance and investment levels. “2026 will mark a significant milestone with the instal- lation of the first Koenig & Bauer Celmacch ChromaCUT High Tech rotary die cutter in the U.S. This first U.S. instal- lation will feature eight color stations, set-up-while-run ca- pability, integrated inline quality control systems, and the Koenig & Bauer Celmacch top-loading stacker. “Koenig & Bauer will continue to play a leading role CONTINUED ON PAGE 36
February 2, 2026 35
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