The XLS Automatic Feeding Kit (Air Assist Kit) is now available for Xerox Versant 280 as a one-piece install. Similar options have been available on the larger Versant 4100 and Iridesse since January 2021.
The Kit is an optional upgrade for XLS printing that improves reliability on the standard OHCF (Oversized High Capacity Feeder). The Kit is particularly useful for users that run XLS jobs but don’t do such heavy volumes that a Vacuum Feeder would be the better solution. It can be fitted to devices in the field or configured at initial installation.
What does the Xerox XLS Automatic Feeding Kit (Air Assist) for the Xerox Versant 280 do?
The XLS Automatic Feeding Kit is designed to improve the reliability of feeding XLS sheets. It is a single-piece optional add-on that uses the standard XLS feature from your MSI (Multi-Sheet Inserter), allowing you to create simplex banners, landscape book covers and long sheet prints, for example.
The Kit improves feed reliability using two controllable inline fan units which fluff the media as it feeds from tray five. In addition, extra edge guides hold the sheets in place for more accurate feeding of long and heavyweight media.
The Kit is simple to use, with a dial to adjust airflow/air pressure to suit the type and weight of media to be printed. It supports print up to a maximum paper size of 330 x 660 mm and a weight of 220gsm. Additionally, the increased feed reliability should allow for more extended uninterrupted XLS printing.
If you have a Xerox Versant 4100 Digital Press, the Kit works in the same way.
Is a Xerox XLS Automatic Feeding Kit (Air Assist) different to a Xerox High Capacity XLS Vacuum Feeder?
Yes. The Air Assist Feeding Kit fits into the top of the Advanced High Capacity Feeder (AHCF, two-tray version) or Oversized High Capacity Feeder (OHCF, one-tray version), which you may already have on your Versant 280 or 4100. As a result, the Kit brings some of the benefits of air assistance technology to a roll-feed (friction-feed) feeder.
The new Kit is incompatible with the High Capacity XLS Vacuum Feeder, but in any case, it is unnecessary there because that feeder already uses vacuum technology in all trays except the MSI. The kit is an optional add-on, whereas the Xerox High Capacity XLS Vacuum Feeder replaces any existing feeder altogether.
How is the XLS Vacuum Feeder different to the existing Advanced High Capacity Feeder?
The main difference between the High Capacity XLS Vacuum Feeder and the Advanced High Capacity Feeder is that one uses vacuum feed technology and the other roll-feed technology. The Vacuum Feeder is handy for press users who regularly work with larger sheets, especially challenging stocks like silks and coated media, on their Versant or Iridesse.
More information about Vacuum Feeders can be found in our updated news article about the Vacuum Feeder Product Launch.
Would the Air Assist Kit or the Vacuum Feeder suit my needs best?
The answer to this depends on how much XLS print you do. If you do some XLS, the Kit may be enough to improve XLS reliability from your existing feeder (OHCF/AHCF). However, if you are a heavy XLS user – especially if you use a wide range of media and want to duplex – then a Vacuum Feeder may be a suitable investment.
To discuss your options, please get in touch with our analysts and account managers who would be pleased to discuss your requirements.
Useful Links:
Xerox Versant Production Presses
Xerox Iridesse Production Press
