While print service providers (PSPs) can spend tens of thousands of pounds on all singing, all dancing printing kit, this means nothing if they do not follow it up with reliable finishing. Whether this is in-house or outsourced, the importance of delivering high-quality finishing cannot be understated. For those seeking to bring finishing in-house or looking to strengthen their current offering, there are plenty of options available right across the finishing process. For the purpose of this article, we are going to focus on creasing, collating, and folding, all of which are core finishing elements of many printed applications. Enhanced Automation First up is Intelligent Finishing Systems (IFS), whose managing director, Eric Keane, says the newest systems have much to offer in terms of enhanced automation that deliver operational efficiencies. These, he says, save time, increase production capacity, and cut costs with faster set up, minimal downtime, and improved job planning. “Customers are asking for solutions that drive down production costs while improving product quality, delivery times, and margins,” Keane explains, adding: “Automation can dramatically impact the way systems work and the difference that could make to the work mix. “Yes, the financial commitment might be greater, but the ROI is also considerably improved as a result of the ability to handle a broader variety of jobs with regards to product range, run lengths, and reduced makereadies. This can make all the difference in the number of jobs that can be completed. “High-quality creasing, collating, and folding systems are quick to set up and operate which helps eliminate bottlenecks, aids smoother throughput, and reduces operator intervention. Important, too, is quality. It is ultimately what the job is judged on. Crisp, sharp, accurate folds and creases make all the difference in how the product looks.” Keane goes on to say that the latest Horizon solutions supplied by IFS have been designed to respond to the trends shaping today’s printing production environment – namely faster turnaround short run work, easy-to-run systems, and minimised human touchpoints. With this, he highlights the Horizon AFV566FKT, the latest folding machine from FINISHING STRONG Creasing, collating, and folding are all key parts of the finishing process and printers need to ensure they have the right equipment in place to deliver quality results. So, what are some of the latest options in these areas? 65 November / December 2023 - Issue 345 www.printmonthly.co.uk ▼ Duplo says greetings cards and booklet production are the main markets for folding and creasing FOCUS ON / CREASING, COLLATING, AND FOLDING
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