TECNAU Libra
Short Run book-block production: Libra SR is an automated system for producing short run pre?glued book blocks, ready for nearline binding.
Produce short run books variable in thickness, automatically. Libra SR accommodates book blocks containing a varying number of signatures from one book to the next.
As the average book run is being significantly reduced, Libra SR is the solution to support short run production. With Libra, users can slash book stocks to zero, reducing dramatically paper waste and the risk of unsold inventory.
- Libra
Libra SR enables users to reach new markets where short runs are mandatory, such as manuals, limited editions, new authors publishing, art books, research papers, republishing, financial reports and more: small volume publications become an opportunity.
Supporting run speeds up to 130 m/min (430 ft/min), Libra SR provides complete flexibility and efficiency for short run book production.
The Libra SR allows access to niche markets where short runs are essential, including manuals, limited editions, debut authors’ publications, art books, research papers, reprints, financial reports, and more. These smaller-volume projects become profitable opportunities. With production speeds reaching up to 130 m/min (430 ft/min), Libra SR combines flexibility with efficiency to meet the demands of short-run book manufacturing.
The system operates inline or nearline with digital presses at speeds up to 130 m/min (430 ft/min). Starting with roll-fed stock up to 520 mm (20.5 inches) wide, printed in 2-up, 3-up, or 4-up formats, Libra SR produces 12, 18, or 24-page sections. Each book block can include a variable number of sections to deliver on-demand, variable-thickness book blocks.
Book blocks are pre-glued and offset-stacked to streamline operator handling and transport to downstream finishing processes. Pre-gluing can be deactivated for 2-up or 4-up layouts intended for nearline sewn binding applications.
Each section can feature one, two, or three vertical perforations, depending on the chosen imposition, to simplify folding and book-block assembly.
A unique patented feature of Tecnau’s Libra SR minimizes waste pages by resizing the last sections based on the book’s page count. Shortened sections (e.g., 8 pages for 2-up, 12 pages for 3-up, or 16 pages for 4-up) reduce blank pages at the end of each book, boosting efficiency.
The entire process is governed by 2D Datamatrix codes printed on each section. This ensures precise system control and maintains product integrity. A user-friendly touchscreen interface provides complete control, enabling quick setup of modules and immediate notification of errors or alarms.
Speed max. |
130 m/min ? 430 ft/min |
|---|---|
Paper Weight |
60 – 180 gsm, 40# text – 65# cover |
Web width |
320 – 520 mm, 12.5″ – 20.5″ |
Imposition |
2-up, 3-up or 4-up for milling, 2-up or 4-up for sew binding |
Book height (Spine) |
190 – 350 mm, 7.48″ – 13.77″ |
Book width |
160 – 330 mm, 6.29″ – 13″ and min to 120 mm (4.73) through manual settings |
Book thickness |
up to 50 mm ~ 2″ |
