Chesapeake installs its third Komori in the UK

Chesapeake has taken delivery of a Komori Lithrone SX640 at its Nottingham plant, fitted with the manufacturer’s full automation package, a double coater and the Komori PQA-S in-line color inspection system.

The Nottingham plant is dedicated to carton production for the pharma market, specializing in premium packaging for OTC medicines that require special finishes and effects. Speaking for the company, operations director Tom Dickie said: ‘Pharma work is traditionally conservative, but increased competition requires innovation and special effects, so we have developed our own 3D effect, Glint, as well as Fresnel lens technology.

‘Micro-embossing is also popular, which combined with special varnish techniques, creates effects that mimic leather, stone, feathers and snakeskin.’

The company has now invested more than £45 million at its sites in the UK, mainland Europe, the US, and Asia in the past 24 months.

Chesapeake’s growth plan includes a group-wide quality inspection program as well as a commitment to use more renewable and recyclable materials. The Lithrones allow the company to run alcohol-free, and use environmentally friendly consumables and, according to Komori UK’s Steve Turner: ‘The larger 1,050 x 750 mm sheet size of the SX40 press allows Chesapeake to print an additional row of small format cartons, which shortens the run length and optimizes board consumption.'