Ed Beierlorzer, chief engineer at Web Press Corp., has seen customer requests for better color and print quality soar as newspapers accommodate market demands. Here, he discusses the color tower market and Web Press’ evolving market niche.

Web Press said it would showcase its touchscreen control capability at this year’s Graph Expo. What are some of benefits this will provide QuadStack users?

This will provide a number of benefits. First, this console will eliminate the time now needed to physically manufacture a [mechanically based] QuadStack control console and thus reduce the wiring and customization needed to build a press. Second, it will enable scalable ink and water controls including non-linear programmable tracking of the printing press’ main drives.

What do you see as one of the biggest selling points of the QuadStack in this competitive market?

The QuadStack lends itself best to situations in which customers don’t necessarily have the physical space to add a color tower. The QuadStack can add color in a very small footprint and users have added systems in buildings where it was impossible to add a [full-size] tower.

Are you having any difficulties obtaining quality raw materials such as steel and other components to build QuadStacks?

We haven’t had any issues with getting raw materials. We pay very close attention to the steel we use for cylinders and bearings. That is the heart of the machine and you have to have high integrity.

Newspapers are using UV systems to diversify their printing capabilities. Where do you see that market heading?