Folding has become more flexible Knaresborough at one-stop digital communications, design and print provider TIG following the installation of a B2 Horizon AFC-566FG from Intelligent Finishing Systems.
The fully-automatic folder joins a B2 MBO system to support an influx of leaflet orders at the operation that serves local, regional and national customers in the financial, education, retail, wholesale, construction, sport, manufacturing, tourism and leisure sectors.
Explains Production Manager Rick Shearstone: “This year and last year we have seen a big increase in leaflet orders. We needed a system to support our existing folder to help us reduce outsourcing and make us more efficient.”
Before investing in the Horizon solution Mr Shearstone considered other options: “We looked at MBO but for the cost and functionality offered by the Horizon made the choice a no brainer. The first thing that we liked about the Horizon was that it can break into long runs very easily. You can also quickly change the fold and set up short runs. Being able to set and save work helps with fast production as well.
He continues: “As the MBO takes more time to set up we can run the longer jobs on that and then use the Horizon for the other work. This means we can plan work much more effectively. The increased capacity allows us to turn work around faster and be more responsive.”
The Horizon AFC-566FG offers 17 fold patterns which are set up via an icon-based touchscreen. All roller gap settings are then performed automatically by inserting a single sheet at the calliper.
Ease of use played a big part in the decision to buy: “We have three operators in the folding area and they can easily move from the MBO to the Horizon thanks to its usability. We had a young lad start last year and he was up to speed on the new folder straight away.”
Concludes Mr Shearstone: “It is paying for itself already. It is easy to set up and equally comfortable with short run and long run jobs. We can plan our work much more effectively and it is cost effective.”
