Fast Turn-Round Guillotine Removes Bottleneck

Removing a production bottleneck and increasing throughput in the bindery was the aim of Principal Colour's decision to install a Perfecta 115 TVC guillotine with paper management flow line.

Removing a production bottleneck and increasing throughput in the bindery was the aim of Principal Colour's decision to install a Perfecta 115 TVC guillotine with paper management flow line.

According to Alan Flack production director at the Principal Colour's Paddock Wood operation, near Tonbridge (UK) the new machine, supplied by Graphic Arts Equipment (GAE) made an immediate impact.

He said: "I always used to hear the phrase I'm waiting for the guillotine but since we introduced the new Perfecta I don't hear it any more.

The main reason it's so productive is the jogger and paper handling equipment we included with the order, which is invaluable, especially if we are under pressure.

It also means the work is less tiresome for the operators." Principal Colour was formed in 1996 and has always been a B1 format printer aiming at the high-end colour market, servicing a range of clients, including London design houses and household names in the media and leisure sectors.

Its first item of finishing equipment was an earlier version of the Perfecta guillotine, bought mainly to cut two million postcards per month for a regular contract.

Various other bindery items were added and by 2003 the company's finishing department was self sufficient, including gather-stitching, folding, cutting and creasing, amongst other facilities.

Flack commented: "Deadlines are tight, even for the most demanding high quality work.

The reason we have a complete in-house bindery is to speed up production as well as to reduce outwork costs.

We want fast turn-around in every area and this is one of the reasons we went for the Perfecta." He added: "It is highly programmable and can be made ready very quickly.

It's very well thought out and easy to use.

We have also been impressed by the speed and simplicity of the knife change system, which of course means less downtime.".

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