What does it do?
The Jet Press Plus XL overprints envelopes that range in size from 82x127mm to 230x380mm.
Why did you choose this particular machine?
The Jet Press is highly versatile. It has the standard features of radial axial cylinders and split aligner, but it also has a tool-less setup and runs at a consistently fast speed throughout the size range, leading to higher average hourly production rates.
Did you look at any other similar machines?
We looked, yes, but there wasn’t anything else on the market that we felt offered the same performance and flexibility.
Why did you make the purchase?
To replace an older machine with a more modern, faster and versatile press. Basically, it was purchased to develop our envelope capabilities in order to position us as a leading key player in the marketplace.
What features do you particularly like?
The radial axial cylinders and split aligner. The radial axial cylinders allow you to make adjustments as the machine is running, meaning more production time.
Is there anything that you dislike?
I can’t fault it.
Is there anything that you wish it had that it doesn’t?
A UV drier could be an advantage. Only time and market conditions will tell whether matt-coated work increases. It is available as an add-on if required, so it may be something we’d consider in the future if necessary.
How fast is it?
It runs at up to 50,000 envelopes per hour.
How reliable is it?
I haven’t managed to break it yet.
How much time or money has it saved?
I wouldn’t know, but going by the smile on the boss’s face, it must be good.
Has it won you any new work?
Run lengths are up and we are working every hour available, so we must be doing something right.
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation or after?
The installation went without a hitch. Some of the controls had improved for the better [compared to the older machines]. Running at 50,000 envelopes per hour takes some getting used to, so I guess there was an element of getting to know the machine – you can’t take your eye off the ball.
What about the pre- and after-sale service?
You can’t fault Halm’s service at all. They usually have an engineer in the UK, should it be needed. More often than not, any queries or support our engineers may need are covered by a phone call direct to Halm in the Netherlands.
Who do you think the machine is right for?
Anyone in the overprint market willing to make the investment to be competitive in what is a progressive marketplace.
Under what circumstances would you buy another?
If we keep winning work as we are, we would look at extra capacity. However, this is one of three envelope presses we invested in, doubling the capacity of our envelope division.
CONCLUSION
User’s verdict
Speed 5/5
Quality 5/5
Reliability 5/5
Value for money 5/5
Supplier’s response
Albert van Brink, UK sales director of Dutch manufacturer Halm, says: “Set-up times are quicker than the previous Super Jet model, allowing customers to put more orders on the table.” He adds: “In combination with the versatile widths, there are a number of options available that have really made the market sit up and take notice, one of which is UV drying. The machine is generally used for conventional printing, but if you’re having problems with coated papers or heavy solids, then the UV dryer is a big help.”
Price from £116,500 (€170,000)
Contact Halm International 00 31 71 301 9303
