What does the machine do?
The machine produces a variety of different folds at speed. It is fully automated, which allows jobs to be stored and recalled later for any repeat orders at a touch of a button.
Why did you choose this particular machine?
It’s good for a range of different work and it provides flexibility. The quick makeready time, coupled with the net production speed and the ability to break into a large production run to accommodate any short-run jobs, makes
it an ideal addition. We already had seven modern folders but this machine is doing the work of at least one and a half of them.
What features do you particularly like?
We like the fact that it is completely automated in the knife-fold section, as well as the buckle plates and rollers. This makes setting-up very easy and all of the adjustments are done through the large touchscreen.
Is there anything that you wish it had that it doesn’t?
We would like the machine to have an in-built extraction device to help remove some of the powder spray.
How fast is it?
It is very fast as it has taken up the increased production from our new XL 105 presses.
How reliable is it?
We were the first UK customer to have the KH82 installed and so had some early teething problems, but these were quickly resolved and the machine has been in full production since January. The machine also has remote service, which allows the factory or Heidelberg UK to log in to the machine, which has meant that they have resolved issues over the phone without the need to visit the site.
What’s the quality like?
Very impressive, the machine is very well built and it maintains a very accurate fold even at high speed. We fold a broad range of stocks ranging from 60-170gsm and this has not created any issues for us.
How easy is it to use?
The repeatability and the ability to store jobs has proved its worth and allows us to set up jobs very quickly and still produce high-quality folds.
How much time or money has it saved?
The higher average net production through higher running speeds and the makeready times being vastly reduced has made a big difference.
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation or after?
No. We were an early adopter of this new technology and have had excellent support in the installation and training.
What about the pre and after-sale service?
We have a very good relationship with our supplier, it is a true partnership. We have regular visits and provide feedback to Heidelberg.
Conclusion
User’s verdict
Speed 5/5
Quality 5/5
Reliability 5/5
Value for money 4/5
Supplier’s response
Mark Hogan, marketing manager at Heidelberg UK, says: The Sterling Press installation is a great example of how a customer and manufacturer can work well together to introduce a new bit of kit into the market. Heidelberg has learned the potential of the machine working with Sterling Press and that will help other customers subsequently.
Price £200,000 with TSH delivery
Contact Heidelberg UK 020 8490 3500
