Knaresborough one-stop digital communications, design and print providerTIG has installed a B2 Horizon AFC-566FG fully automatic folder from Intelligent Finishing Systems.
The new machine joins a B2 MBO system to support an influx of leaflet orders at the operation, which serves local, regional and national customers in the financial, education, retail, wholesale, construction, sport, manufacturing, tourism and leisure sectors.
Production manager Rick Shearstone explained: ‘We needed a system to support our existing folder to help us reduce outsourcing and make us more efficient.’
He said that the cost and functionality offered by the Horizon folder ‘made the choice a no brainer’, and added: ‘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.’
The MBO is being used for running longer jobs and the Horizon for the other work, allowing TIG to plan work more effectively, while the increased capacity allows it to turn work around faster and be more responsive.
Ease of use also played a big part in the decision to buy, enabling the company’s three operators in the folding area to easily move from the MBO to the Horizon. ‘We had a young lad start last year and he was up to speed on the new folder straight away,’ said 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.’
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.
