In the past few months the Harrogate-based firm has installed a Kongsberg XN24 digital cutting table and a Horizon AF-566T4F automated buckle-folder configured with a GFB-56 gatefold buckle plate and an AF-ST5N strip-trim device for two-up work.
It follows investments earlier in the year of a Komori Lithrone S429 with H-UV drying technology and a Canon Océ Arizona 350GT digital flatbed printer. The business has also recently invested in the refurbishment and expansion of its premises.
“We can now add value in many more ways and that means we can expand our services, create a stronger relationship with our customers and secure the future of the business,” said managing director Mark Plummer.
The Kongsberg XN24, which is being installed this week, can handle sheets up to 1,680x3,200mm and comes with MultiCUT HP high-power milling head with water-cooling system running at 60,000rpm.
The AF-566T4F, which was bought from Intelligent Finishing Systems, is a JDF-ready automated B2-plus system. It is equipped with six buckle plates in the first unit plus four buckle plates in the second unit and a MKU-54 reversible mobile knife unit.
“We bought the Kongsberg cutting table to allow us to cut thicker and heavier stock,” said Plummer.
“The folding system was bought to improve our productivity as our existing folding system was old and we were sending work out due to capacity and complexity. We’ve now brought all buckle-folding work in-house, which has allowed us to be a little more in control of deadlines and the turnarounds.
“The quick makeready is the biggest advantage, particularly with short runs. It saves us up to 20 to 30 minutes per job.”
Platinum also operates a five-colour Komori NL528C B2 press, a number of Konica Minolta and Ricoh digital presses, including the Ricoh C901, large-format Mimaki roll-to-roll printers and cutters, and a range of mailing equipment and other finishing kit.
The company employs 29 staff and has a turnover of £3.4m. It provides print, design, cross-media and direct mail services to a wide range of clients across Yorkshire, including local cafe and beverage business Bettys & Taylors Group, Engage Mutual, Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club and Yorkshire Wildlife.
