The Wolverhampton-based general commercial printer installed the machine, which was supplied by Intelligent Finishing Systems (IFS), in May.

IFS said the Horizon AFC-564AKT is a space efficient automated cross-knife folder that features advanced automation for fast setup and job completion. It runs at up to 40,000 sheets per hour.

Printworks managing director Jim Monks said: “We had a folder that was more than 30 years old and it needed some work doing. It was a great system, but it made sense to put the money we would have spent towards a new solution.

“We looked at what was on the market, but the Horizon stood out for us. We have a Horizon SPF-200L bookletmaker so know the manufacturer and IFS. IFS also know us, so when we talked to them, they were able to recommend what they thought would be most suitable for our workload.”

He added: “The folder is obviously highly automated and easier to run. We liked the fast setup and how well it grips the paper. It is also easy to switch jobs which helps our operators and also means we can manage a lot more short-run work.

“We now have shorter setup times, faster running times, increased capacity and greater flexibility.” 

Five-staff Printworks serves local and national organisations including the NHS. Established in 1982, it runs Heidelberg MO litho presses and Konica Minolta BizHub digital printers.