Platinum Print has continued its investment in high-performance, automated technology with the installation of a Horizon iCE StitchLiner Mark IV saddle-stitching system from IFS.
The Harrogate-based design, print, signage, and direct mail specialist chose the latest-generation solution to replace its long-serving Horizon StitchLiner 5500. The move follows recent investments including a RICOH Pro™ C9500 toner press (replacing a C9200 used for direct mail), an Autobond B1 double-sided laminator, a Polar N 115 high-speed guillotine, a Bacciottini Pitstop Oxo creaser/folder, and an ATS MSX 420 bander.
The new StitchLiner Mark IV will support production from the company’s HP Indigo 12000 and streamline the delivery of short-run booklets. Equipped with three six-station high-pile VAC-L600H collators (18 stations), it can produce booklets up to A4 landscape and up to 72 pages.
Anthony Wyvill, Managing Director, says: “The new system replaces our older StitchLiner 5500. Because it had been so reliable, we knew we could trust Horizon’s build quality. The ability to produce A4 landscape booklets was also a major advantage. Previously, we could only complete these on our Muller Martini or by hand which is time-consuming for short runs.”
He adds: “This investment allows us to complete work more efficiently and with confidence. It strengthens our on-demand, short-run, fast-turnaround workflow improving quality and cost effectiveness.”
“While the previous StitchLiner offered a good level of automation, the Mark IV takes this much further. The enhancements deliver clear advantages that support highly efficient and economical production.”
The Horizon iCE StitchLiner Mark IV achieves high quality booklet production at speeds of up to 6,000 booklets per hour. It is equipped with iCE LiNK that uses cloud technology to automate workflow from upstream to post-press. It provides access to an intuitive, easy to use dashboard that reports real-time production analysis for improved efficiency and profitability, remote update capabilities and scheduled maintenance resulting in less downtime. The information is accessible via smartphone, tablet or desktop PC and the software is designed for integration with MIS systems.
The transition to the new system has been seamless. Anthony comments: “Our previous StitchLiner was running right up until the day it left. The new system has been in place for a few weeks and is performing extremely well. Our team adapted quickly because the operation is familiar, and even new operators found it very intuitive.”
