The machine has been specified with Komori’s fully automatic plate changer – a configuration that the manufacturer claims is a UK first – as well as the latest generation PDC-SX closed loop spectrophotometer with auto register system and the KHS AI integrated management system.
Ancient House Press (AHP) has also opted to equip the Komori GL1040P, which is scheduled for installation by January 2013, with a Mabeg reel-sheet device.
Joint managing director at AHP Mike Underdown said that the configuration sat well with the company’s existing pair of Komori 38S five unit 16-page web-presses and would boost production efficiency.
"Incorporating the sheet-feeder means that we only have to worry about handling reels," he explained.
Underdown said that AHP, which prints high quality magazines, brochures and posters, expected to run the machine at speeds of up to 15,000 sheets per hour.
"For us this was about getting a new technology that would give us really quick make-readies and at around five to 10 minutes that’s exactly what this gives us. Currently we have make-readies of around 45 minutes to an hour.
"We expect this investment to grow turnover by around £1.5m to £2m," he added.
Underdown said that over the next three months the company also intended to invest in a raft of new finishing equipment to handle the increased output.
"With the extra throughput we will have from the press we will look to reinvest in the bindery area with new stitching lines and guillotines."
As a result of the acquisitions AHP also intends to recruit more staff across all departments, to add to its existing head count of 105, but Underdown said no decision had yet been taken on the number of new employees it would recruit.
