Ashwyk has energized production with investment in a Horizon BQ-270V single-clamp perfect binder from Intelligent Finishing Systems (IFS).
The Essex operation combines traditional methods of production, such as a Heidelberg platen that foils and embosses, with cutting edge Indigo 7900 digital printing technology. It works with a broad client range including schools, design agencies and brands.
Managing Director Joe de Wykerslooth explains the investment decision: “We were outsourcing our perfect binding and wanted to bring it in house to improve turnaround times and our competitiveness. We evaluated other pieces of kit and the Horizon system looked to be the best. We also spoke to other people in the industry and they all said it was a good machine.
“As we are now just starting out with perfect binding inhouse we are looking to build it up. We can be faster and more creative. One area it will make a big impact is in proofs. Before we were creating loose examples and the customer had to trust the final look. Now we can create a proof that will look exactly the same as the completed job. We can also create samples, adding foiling and embossing, for a very high-end result. It is a winner for us.”
The Horizon BQ-270V single-clamp perfect binder offers high-quality perfect binding and on-demand production of variable thickness books. It includes an automated, sensor-activated digital caliper system which measures book block thickness and automatically transfers this data to the binder for quick, automated set-up for books of different thicknesses. It features a large 10.4″ intelligent colour touchscreen, job programming, and a compact configuration.
Joe hopes the investment will also open up new doors: “I am also in charge of sales and I think being able to complete perfect bound books to a very high quality is going to open doors, start fresh conversations and enable us to target new markets. It will energise the business with the ability to offer cost effective stunning results on a wide range of short run print.
