The Lamhanson F550, which encapsulates up to 5,000 A4 sheets per hour, was installed last month at Encapital's south-west London plant.

Encapital managing director Fin Hegarty, who advised developer Paul Johnson on the design of the F550, described it as a "cracking machine".

"I was pleased to have some input because as an end user that doesn't happen a lot. I spent a few hours with him a few times, and I was able to point out what was unnecessary," said Hegarty.

"He's come up with a great piece of kit, done away with the unnecessary parts, improved on the better parts of the machinery, and best of all it's built here in the UK."

He added that the machine gave a "wonderful, scratch-free finish" thanks to its heated roller system and nip rollers.

Birmingham-based Lamhanson was formed two years ago by Paul Johnson. He also produces a rewinder and an automatic feeder for the encapsulator.

Encapital Finishing recently bought a D&K Proteus thermal laminator at Digital Print World (PrintWeek, 4 November 2004).

Story by Josh Brooks