Applied Laser Engineering has unveiled the new Meridian 2000 Roller and Plate Laser Engraving System. The system is designed to produce digital engraved natural and synthetic polymers, metals and ceramics, as well as performing digital mask removal from photo polymers and metals. The application includes a PC driven control system and is complemented by software for designing and editing geometric, graphic and three-dimensional images. The UK company says that an optional three-dimensional scanner can be incorporated into the engraving machine to enable the production of natural textures. Fax: 44 208 783 1348

Ingersoll-RandK claims that its SSR range of coolant-flooded, rotary screw air compressors between 4 and 90 kW are using Eff2, or better, electric motors. The UK company says that these units can provide customers with an average 20% saving in energy loss over Eff3 motors. The UK company's range includes electric drive motors that are matched to the compressors' requirements. The motor is a squirrel cage induction model that is designed for use in temperatures up to 46°C. The air-cooled aftercooler in the compressors cools the compressed air to within 8°C of the ambient temperature, according to the manufacturer. Fax: 44 181 741 9508M

Sonoco has introduced a new line of paper mill cores. The cores are designed to reduce center burst problems. The HQ ACB range of cores aims to accommodate wider, heavier rolls that are used in rotogravure printing, as well as thinner papers. The cores feature a multi-grade construction making them 50% more resistant to center burst than other cores, according to the US company. The product is engineered so that the core outside diameter expansion and reduction is minimized. The new cores are also said to help maintain the wound-in tension profile in the roll center. Fax: 32 2 720 54 17 or www.sonoco.com

The CR-3150-S sheet and poster winder and the Elsner OWH-800 shrink film roll overwrapper have been developed by Elsner Engineering Works. The two units are said to form a complete production line for rolling, wrapping and labeling calenders, posters and other single sheet printed items. The US company says that the line can convert flat sheet items into roll form either with or without cores. Standard poster sizes up to 76 cm x 114 cm can be processed into 2.5 cm to 5 cm diameter rolls at full machine speed. Options are available for longer sheets as well as two sheets to a roll, the manufacturer claims. Fax: 1 717 633 7100 or www.elsnereng.com

The Falk Corporation has introduced a lifetime Shaft Removal Guarantee. The US company guarantees that its Quadrive shaft-mounted gear drives remain removable from the shaft, regardless of length of service or operating conditions. If not, the company will replace the gear drive free of charge. The manufacturer's guarantee is coupled with a standard three-year warranty that provides full shaft-to-shaft protection on all components, including bearings and seals. Fax: 1 414 937 4359 or www.falkcorp.com

Mütek Analytic has designed the WSD wet strength measuring module that measures wet stretch after 0.3 seconds. Features include an adjustable tensile load on the paper sample that is to be analyzed and the ability to measure different liquids including adhesives, printing inks, inkjet inks and coating colors. Analytical results are recorded in a graphic which enables the stretch to be assessed by specific criteria, for example, quick or slow stretch or differences in paper behavior. The German company says that the paper sample need only come into contact with liquid on one side. Fax: 49 8152 4374 or www.muetek.de