Ritrama UK installs centralized matrix and edge trim extraction system

Ritrama UK has installed a centralized PSA trim waste extraction system to facilitate efficient operation at its new facility in Manchester.

The Impact Air Systems system, which allows the removal of sticky matrix waste and eliminates the need to rewind waste on-press, can handle eight slitting machines

The Impact Air Systems system, which allows the removal of sticky matrix waste and eliminates the need to rewind waste on-press, can handle eight slitting machines, with each machine equipped with a dedicated trim cutter with either tool steel or tungsten carbide cutting blades. Cut waste trim is extracted via a centralized ductwork and fan system; material is then deposited into a compactor and standby compactor. Filtered air is returned to the production hall and an acoustic package has been implemented in order to ensure low operating noise levels, both internally and externally.

Impact Air Systems is a specialist in the supply of centralized matrix and edge trim extraction, working across a wide range of industries around the world. It is based in the UK with operations in the US.

The system can be fitted to any narrow web press up to 500mm in width, and can be incorporated into an existing waste removal system or be supplied as part of a complete centralized system. The matrix removal unit can be fitted on the non-operator side of the printing press. Each unit incorporates a precision trim cutter to cut the continuous matrix into small manageable pieces. The waste can be collected in a central location and removed from site without an issue.

The system is said to provide an efficient and effective option to ensure Ritrama UK could continue its operations with minimal down time, elimination of basket collection and winding matrix waste, increased machine uptime and contribution to increase profits, according to Impact Air Systems.

Ritrama UK has also signed up to an Impact technical services system care package, incorporating the trim cutter exchange facility.

Ian Fitzgerald, operations manager of Ritrama UK, commented: ‘When we were making plans for our new efficient production facility, we decided to partner with Impact Air Systems after discussing our requirements with several companies and viewing some installations.

‘The cost and time spent managing our old partial automatic and manual basket system would not fit with our new requirements. Our old system had two compact skip exchanges per week versus our new automatic twin compactor system that now only requires one exchange every two weeks with a higher volume produced. The air filtration system not only separates the fine particulates, it also brings the extracted heat energy back into the workplace helping to balance the air whilst cleaning it at the same time. It has been an all-round good investment for Ritrama UK.’