veeboffset

Veeboffset is a form of offset lithography printing that uses a continuous roll of paper, or web, instead of individual sheets. The process relies on the offset principle where an image is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket cylinder and then to the substrate. A dampening system keeps non-image areas ink-free, while ink is applied to the image areas and transferred through successive printing units, commonly in CMYK for color reproduction. After printing, the web is dried or cured and wound onto take-up rolls or cut for finishing.

Web offset presses are designed for high-speed, high-volume production and are widely used for newspapers, magazines, catalogs, direct mail, and other material printed on long runs. Equipment typically includes unwinder rolls, multiple printing units, dryers or UV/cure units, and rewinder or cutting systems. Two main variants exist: coldset, which uses uncoated newsprint and no heat after printing, and heatset, which dries inks with heat to allow coated or higher-quality stocks.

Advantages of veeboffset include low cost per unit for large print runs, fast production speeds, and strong color consistency across long runs. Disadvantages include higher initial investment, longer setup times, and reduced economic viability for short runs or highly customized printing. Substrate and ink choices, as well as drying and finishing options, influence the suitability of veeboffset for a given job.