New Process Line Provides Faster Throughput Rate & Better Process Control For Label Printer

Phil Black - PII Editor 01/05/2017

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The suitability of process line technology available from Jacquet Weston Engineering Ltd. (JWE) has been clearly demonstrated via a specialist application in North Yorkshire

GSM Graphic Arts Ltd., based in Thirsk, has some 40 years’ experience in producing a range of high-quality labelling products – from labels and nameplates to barcodes, fascias and control panels – and is now benefitting from a new aluminium anodising line designed, manufactured and installed by JWE.

“Anodising has long been one of the key processes we offer but increased demand prompted us towards the need to install new equipment that could underline the quality of our products in a more efficient way,” comments Peter Young, Site Manager at GSM. He explains that because the anodising process effectively opens the pores of the substrate, it optimises ink printing ahead of sealing.

The solution has been the installation of a JWE process line that comprises five dip tanks and both load and unload stations. Aluminium sheets are suspended on a cantilever transporter which then transports each load through the process stages via computerised programmable operation.

“The new line provides not only a faster rate of throughput, but also better process control, enhanced monitoring and reporting and more effective manpower deployment,” adds Peter Young.

The JWE facility focuses on the processing of aluminium sheets which, mostly, range between 0.3mm and 3mm in thickness. “It was therefore important that the configuration is able to accommodate these variations and that the programmable control matches the need of the different substrates,” says Andy Jones, JWE’s Engineering Director. “Our role encompassed a range of process stages – from design and installation to commissioning – and now benefits from an ongoing support programme that provides servicing, maintenance and, most importantly, offers peace of mind to GSM.”

Peter Young highlighted the fact that JWE were able to complete the work with the minimum of site disruption so that the company’s other processes were able to continue unaffected by the upgrading of the anodising line.

“JWE were recommended to us by one of our suppliers – Colour Anodising – and their understanding of our needs, technical capability and professionalism have all been impressive,” concludes Peter Young. “We are confident that we now have an extremely efficient anodising facility that not only matches our recent growth, but which will help us develop and grow further well into the future.”