If you’re in the market for a used 2 color offset printing machine, the Heidelberg SM 72 ZP (Year 1989) stands out as a reliable, high-performance press. Built with Heidelberg’s legendary German printing engineering, this machine continues to be a preferred choice for commercial and packaging printers around the world.
This 20×28 inch offset press is built for consistent output, fast turnaround, and long-term durability. In this article, we will explore the features, specifications, advantages, and reasons why the Heidelberg SM 72 ZP is a valuable addition to your printing setup.
Key Specifications of Heidelberg SM 72 ZP

- Model: SM 72 ZP
- Year of Manufacture: 1989
- Colors: 2 Color (ZP – Zentrale Perfektion, perfecting press)
- Printing Size: 20 x 28 inches
- Sheetfed Offset
- Perfecting Capabilities: Yes (1+1 / 2+0)
- Max Printing Speed: Up to 11,000 sheets per hour
- Feeder & Delivery: Stream feeder with pile delivery
- Condition: Excellent (Well maintained & inspected)
Features of Heidelberg SM 72 ZP 2 Color Press
- Perfecting Mechanism: The “ZP” in the model stands for Zentrale Perfektion, meaning it’s capable of printing both sides of the sheet in a single pass (1/1 or 2/0), boosting productivity.
- Robust German Engineering: Heidelberg presses from the late 1980s are known for durability and superior build quality.
- Quick Makeready Time: Reduced downtime between jobs thanks to user-friendly controls and fast plate changes.
- Consistent Registration: Maintains excellent registration across long runs, critical for commercial printing.
- Cost-Effective Printing: An ideal choice for small to medium-sized print shops that want Heidelberg reliability without investing in new machinery.
Why Choose a Used Heidelberg SM 72 ZP (1989 Model)?

Cost-Effective Investment
Buying a used Heidelberg SM 72 ZP gives you access to Heidelberg-quality printing at a fraction of the cost of a new machine. With proper maintenance, these machines remain productive for decades.
Ideal for Commercial Printing
Whether you’re running brochures, flyers, magazines, or business cards, this 2 color offset printing press provides consistent color reproduction and output.
Versatility
The 20×28 size supports a wide range of job formats, making it a versatile option for general commercial printing.
High Resale Value
Heidelberg presses maintain strong resale value due to their reputation, quality, and spare parts availability.
Top Applications for the SM 72 ZP Offset Press
Here are some applications of Heidelberg SM 72 ZP Offset Machines.
- 2-color booklets
- Double-sided flyers
- NCR forms and invoices
- Packaging inserts
- Brochures and pamphlets
Benefits Over Competitors
- Superior sheet alignment
- Sturdy mechanical components
- Lower operational noise
- Easily available spare parts
- Large operator community for support
Conclusion: Heidelberg SM 72 ZP – A Trusted 2 Color Offset Workhorse
The Heidelberg SM 72 ZP 2 Color (1989) remains one of the most sought-after used offset printing machines in the global market. Whether you’re a commercial printer expanding capacity or a startup entering the print industry, this press offers the perfect balance of cost, performance, and print quality.
If you’re looking for a used offset press with perfecting capabilities, Heidelberg’s SM 72 ZP is a proven choice. Its 20×28 inch format, durable build, and reliable German engineering make it a profitable asset for any print house.
Other Heidelberg Offset Printing Machines, You May Like
Here is the list of other most popular and high performance Heidelberg printing presses.
- HEIDELBERG SM 66-5P 1998
- HEIDELBERG SM 102-8P 2007
- HEIDELBERG CD 102-6 LYYL 2003
- HEIDELBERG SM 72V 1985
- HEIDELBERG SM 102 ZP CP TRONIC
- HEIDELBERG MO-S 1985
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the print size of Heidelberg SM 72 ZP?
The Heidelberg SM 72 ZP supports a maximum sheet size of 20 x 28 inches, ideal for a wide range of commercial printing jobs.
Does the Heidelberg SM 72 ZP support perfecting (double-sided printing)?
Yes, the “ZP” model includes a perfecting unit, allowing you to print on both sides of the sheet in a single pass (1/1 or 2/0).
Is it reliable to buy a used 1989 Heidelberg SM 72 ZP?
Absolutely. With proper maintenance, Heidelberg presses from the 1980s are known to be highly durable and continue running efficiently.
What types of jobs can I run on the SM 72 ZP?
You can run brochures, flyers, business cards, booklets, forms, and many other 2-color printing jobs with high accuracy.
Are spare parts still available for the 1989 Heidelberg SM 72 ZP?
Yes, spare parts and service support are widely available due to the popularity of this model.