While many printed pieces are printed on both sides, not every kind of printing press includes that process as an automated function.
Duplex Printing
Duplex printing is the term used for automated double-sided printing on single sheets of paper in one pass through a printing press. (While technically this term refers to a single-pass double-sided printing process, it is sometimes used in a general way to refer to printing on both sides of an item even if it took multiple passes.)
Automated Duplex printing on paper sheets is commonly done on digital printing presses.
Simplex Printing
Simplex printing refers to single-sided sheet printing and printing presses lacking the built-in capability for double-sided printing are characterized as Simplex presses. (Perfecting Presses are roll-fed web offset presses that can print on both sides but use continuous rolls of paper versus sheets.)
Simplex presses can produce double-sided pieces — they just require manual intervention: the first pass prints one side of the substrate, then the pieces must be manually flipped and sent back through the press to print on the second side.
Automated duplex printing saves time, which can save money. (As discussed in Printing Terminology: Digital Printing (link) and Printing Terminology: Print On Demand digital presses are the cost-saving choice for shorter print runs; once you reach a higher volume it’s more cost effective to use offset presses.
Printing is a complex subject and deciding which equipment best serves your needs and your budget often requires consultation with your printer. Give us a call at 330-597-8560 to discuss your duplex or simplex project.
