Stephens & George relies on innovative technology to increase operational efficiency and to continue to compete in a highly competitive market. By investing in the latest Speedmaster XL 106-8-P, which produces at a speed of 21,000 sheets per hour, the company has significantly optimized its production processes. This investment is a clear demonstration of the company's commitment to excellence and to delivering high-quality magazines and brochures to its customers in the shortest possible time.
As early as November 2022, after the announcement of the 21,000 sheets per hour speed package for the Speedmaster XL 106, Stephens & George recognized the additional potential of the new configuration. Their existing Speedmaster was already running at 18,000 sheets per hour and delivering outstanding results. However, to work even more efficiently, the company decided, after thoroughly analyzing market trends and consulting with HEIDELBERG, on a new perfecting press with CutStar, the first of its kind to be installed in the UK.
Thanks to its innovative design and reduced noise emissions, the Speedmaster XL 106 has not only increased efficiency, but has also significantly improved working conditions around the machine. “The operators have praised the machine's quietness and, with the new direct drive at the feeder, the machine noticeably reduces makeready times,” says Paul Enoch, Production Manager at Stephens & George.
Another advantage of the new Speedmaster is the reduction in powder consumption. A new powder system developed in partnership with HEIDELBERG has reduced contamination from unused powder by almost 50 %. This makes for a much cleaner working area and further increases efficiency.
The Speedmaster XL 106 also features state-of-the-art automation functions that not only minimize paper waste but also simplify machine operation. The bearer ring maintenance system contributes to the automation of maintenance and makes it possible to free up to 60 hours per year for additional print jobs.
Since the installation by the HEIDELBERG service team in May, the machine has been running at full speed. "This machine is 15% more productive than our previous machines. This enables us to produce over 8 million additional sheets per year, which corresponds to more than 2,000 additional orders. The new Speedmaster XL 106 from HEIDELBERG is the most productive and efficient machine we have ever had,“ explains Paul Enoch.
As a long-standing customer, Stephens & George once again opted for the company's technology after a thorough analysis of the competition. ”We believe that HEIDELBERG's machines are the best on the market,” says Andrew Jones, ‘and we will always use the latest HEIDELBERG technology."
