Auto Batch Counting Relieves Post-Press Bottleneck

Streamfeeder has installed a new batch counting fulfillment system at Suttle-Straus, Waunakee, Wisconsin (USA).

Streamfeeder has installed a new batch counting fulfillment system at Suttle-Straus, Waunakee, Wisconsin (USA).

The automation system was designed to relieve a manual labour bottleneck in post-press operations.

Prior to installing the line, Suttle-Straus used folding machines to fold and count the product.

The product was transported by carts to another location and an operator would manually unload the cart and place the counted stacks in to a semi-automatic shrink wrapper.

The new system includes two XT-1200 accumulator-droppers controlled by Streamfeeder's specialised Feednet collator communication software and is integrated with a shrink wrapper.

The line batch counts a variety of folded and single sheets in ranges of 10 to 50 pieces.

"What used to take over three days, now takes less than one day.

The increased capacity has created a ripple effect throughout the company enabling presses, folders, and other areas to operate at higher levels of production," said Mark Thorpe, Suttle-Straus's production manager.

Suttle-Straus provides one-colour to six-colour sheetfed and web printing, digital imaging, mailing, web linked ordering and distribution.

The company specialises in corporate communications, direct mail, advertising materials and multi-colour printing.

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