Selsey Press has stepped up a press format with installation of the first Komori G837P Advance EX Edition in the UK. This is Komori’s most automated press to date with autonomous adjustment of register colour and content to relieve pressure on operators.
Selsey has been a long time Komori user and was among the first in the country to install a B2 HUV press. As well as the SRA1 machine it also runs five-colour Lithrone 29 HUV, two-colour Speedmaster 52 and Ricoh Pro C9500. A Mutoh is used for large format printing.
Selsey Press director Robin Tyler says: “Moving to the SRA1 has transformed efficiencies for multipage work. For example, a recent 152-page A4 catalogue that would previously have required eight-page sections can now be produced in 16-page sections, printing both sides simultaneously at speeds of up to 15,000 sheets per hour.
“Together with 85-second plate changes, blanket washing and pre-inking between sections, this significantly reduces production time while creating further efficiencies in folding and binding.”
The company is already down to fewer than 100 sheets lost at each section change. “We have been naturally cautious and double checking – we are well known for print of the highest quality so we want to be sure all is working to our standards, but the Autopilot system is proving to be very accurate. “There is another step to scan and calibrate for less regular papers, but this is still a very quick procedure.”
The company prepared for the press with installation of an Eco3 Avalon platesetter earlier this year to accommodate the larger plate having already upgraded one guillotine to the extended format. Selsey has elected to use the Eco3 Energy Elite Pro because the company will be taking on longer runs of magazines and catalogues for customers across the country.
Director Tim Tyler adds: “As a family business, we’ve always believed in investing for the long term. This is one of the most significant investments we’ve ever made and reflects our confidence in both the future of print and the customers we serve. The new press gives us the capacity, efficiency and quality control to continue growing while maintaining the personal service that has always been at the heart of Selsey Press.”
Before placing the order, print tests were carried out at the Komori Europe showroom in Utrecht where the press has been put through its paces, including the use of AMRs to move pallets of printed work. This is not coming to Selsey as the company has a compact factory layout. However, Komori’s KPConnect factory automation software is on the cards. Says Robin Tyler: “We are using some of KPConnect, and there is certainly more we can use in the future.”
