He also picks out connectivity as another feature worth considering. Train says with many print engines using FIERY (previously an EFI brand), being able to connect the multi-finishers range, booklet production range, and embellishment range of machines directly with the press allows manual steps to be taken out. In addition, Train says imposition software that automatically sorts out the products to be printed in the most efficient manner will save on wastage of paper stocks. “One of the main features that customers should look for in automation is a consistently high-quality finish,” he says, adding: “There is no point in automating the finishing process if the machines are producing inconsistent results meaning operators need to manually check each product – this results in boxes of products needing to be recycled or even thrown away. “Automation is the key to everything that Duplo has stood for since its inception. Duplo invented the multi-finisher as we now understand them – a device that slits, cuts, and creases in one package, and our Duplo range also perforates in one pass. “Ideal for common applications such as business and greetings cards, covers, direct mailers, leaflets, concertina folds, in fact anything with the combination of slitting, cross-cutting, scoring, and perforating.” Over the years, Duplo has increased its portfolio of finishing kit to booklet production, automatic saddle stitching, sensory coating, and digital cutting tables, and developing automation to match market demands. The latest machines launched in the last year include the DDC-8000 B2 DuSense and the DC-20K B2 cutting system, DC-648 slitter cutter creaser, and the new iSaddle 5.0. All of these encompass the latest automation techniques and integrations to modern printers across the UK. Ollie Renshaw, business and systems manager at print and mail service for the University of Leeds, offers a first-hand account of the benefits of Duplo automation. “The Duplo machines are just fabulous,” Renshaw says, adding: “My operators think the automation and ease of use on the DC-648 is second to none. Normal jobs are all set up and the print is just fed through, taking the stress and hours upon hours of manual work away. We have so many different jobs coming through that this machine is a lifesaver.” Get in the Workflow Meanwhile, Kite Packaging revealed how it recently began using drone technology in its warehouse for automated inventory control. Jake Kirk, a managing partner in Kite Packaging, says the company is one of the first businesses in the UK to do this. “The drone carries out stock checks in five hours where manually it might take an hour,” he says, adding: “This has helped us maintain good levels of stock to guarantee availability to customers. “Alongside this, we also utilise the conveyor systems, pallet wrap machines, and spiral wrappers sold on our website within our warehouse operation. These replace manual labour and carry out repetitive tasks so our warehouse operatives can focus on pick, pack, and dispatch instead.” Kite Packaging offers a complete range of automated solutions to help users with achieving workflow automation. Among its range is an electronic gummed paper tape machine that can, for example, moisten, dispense, and cut gummed paper tape ready for application so that packers can focus on optimising pack efficiency. The company also sells semi-automatic strapping and banding machines to secure packages ready for shipping. These operate at 25 cycles per minute, with Kirk saying they create soft and elastic bundles without sacrificing speed or efficiency, while also eliminating any curling, folding or peeling of tape edges. “Incorporating automation where possible frees up employees to focus on value-added tasks which in turn can help improve a business’ offering and increase profits,” Kirk says, adding: “Printers should look at automating repetitive tasks that don’t require intellectual decision-making across their prepress, press, and postpress processes. “They should consider workflow automation in their operations. This involves automating any manually performed task, such as approving leave requests or invoicing so that employees can focus their efforts on value-added tasks.” Switching to automation seems something of a no-brainer for PSPs. If you can reduce costs, free up staff for other work and increase quality, then investment in automation could be the key to future success. When investing in new kit, printers should consider workflow automation to fill the gaps where no staff are available NiceLabel LMS from AM Labels is a cloud-based software that provides the tools to manage, integrate, and automate label printing processes Factoid 83 July / August 2023 - Issue 343 email: news@printmonthly.co.uk ◄ Kite Packaging’s electronic gummed paper tape machine can moisten, dispense, and cut gummed paper tape ready for application MARKET TRENDS / AUTOMATION
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjM0NDIxOA==