Birmingham, AL, July 28, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) has upgraded its Printing & Mailing Services by installing a state-of-the-art 5-color RMGT 970 press with LED-UV curing technology. This new press enhances production capabilities and sustainability, supporting various printing needs for the campus community while streamlining operations.
Birmingham, AL – The University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) has recently upgraded its Printing & Mailing Services by installing a state-of-the-art 5-color RMGT 970 press featuring LED-UV curing technology. This installation marks a significant enhancement for the university’s printing capabilities, showcasing a commitment to modernized services within its expansive 19,000 square-foot facility.
The UAB Printing & Mailing Services provides a range of products including admissions packets, magazines, newsletters, postcards, flyers, and brochures to support faculty, students, departments, and campus organizations. The service is designed as a “one-stop shop” for all printing needs, reflecting an ongoing commitment to maintain in-house production.
The decision to acquire the RMGT 970 press stemmed from the need to replace a legacy press that had been in operation for 30 years. UAB prioritized newer technological capabilities that promise long-term cost efficiency while keeping existing production methods intact. UAB’s dedication to offset printing continues, accounting for half of its production volume despite a noticeable market shift toward digital solutions.
The RMGT 970 is designed with an LED curing system that dries printed sheets instantly in a single pass, significantly reducing the time needed for production cycles. It allows for seamless transitions to finishing operations such as cutting and folding, thereby decreasing drying time from the previous overnight wait to same-day processing.
Furthermore, the LED curing technology provides several additional benefits, such as eliminating the need for spray powder and lowering overall energy consumption. This reduces the environmental impact of the printing process, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable pressroom. The RMGT 970 also enhances ink efficiency, minimizing waste, with the new press requiring only ink that is cured under the LED lamp, thereby reducing costs associated with dried-out ink.
The installation of the RMGT 970 has also expanded UAB’s in-house finishing capabilities, allowing for the application of soft touch coatings without the need for outsourcing. The inline coater of the RMGT 970 supports both aqueous and LED-curable varnishes, offering high-impact finishes while eliminating delays associated with offline equipment.
Operational aspects of the RMGT 970 have also been streamlined using Insta.Color makeready technology, which simplifies the setup process for printing operators. Its intuitive touchscreen controls and automated assist features for makeready, printing, and maintenance have received favorable acknowledgment from UAB’s staff, making the transition from their previous machine smooth and efficient.
Overall, UAB Printing & Mailing Services aims to continue providing high-quality services to its campus community while incorporating advanced technology with the new RMGT 970 press. The press enhances not only the printing quality but also overall service efficiency, reinforcing the university’s mission to support its educational and administrative needs.
FAQ
What is the RMGT 970 press and why did UAB install it?
The RMGT 970 press is a 5-color printing press that utilizes LED-UV curing technology. UAB installed it to replace their 30-year-old legacy press, to modernize their printing services, increase operational efficiency, and enhance sustainability.
What services does UAB Printing & Mailing Services provide?
UAB Printing & Mailing Services provides a variety of printing products including admissions packets, magazines, newsletters, postcards, flyers, and brochures for use by faculty, students, departments, and campus organizations.
What advantages does the LED curing technology offer?
The LED curing technology allows for sheets to dry instantly in one pass, reduces drying time from overnight to same-day processing, eliminates the need for spray powder, and decreases energy consumption, leading to a cleaner and more efficient pressroom.
Key Features of RMGT 970 Press
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Installation | 5-color RMGT 970 press installed at UAB Printing & Mailing Services |
| Technology | LED-UV curing system for instant drying |
| Size of Facility | 19,000 sq. ft. |
| Production Days | Monday through Friday |
| Environmental Impact | Reduced energy consumption and cleaner operations |
| In-house Capabilities | Soft touch coatings and inline coater functionality |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WhatTheyThink: University of Alabama Birmingham Printing & Mailing Transforms Workflow
- Wikipedia: Printing
- Editor & Publisher: Obituary of James B. Boone Jr.
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Printing
- The Guardian: Birmingham PhD Student Guilty of Using 3D Printer
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
