‘We are known for the depth and diversity of our product range and service offering, so moving into converting was a natural expansion for us, signalling our commitment to flexibility and adaptability in meeting market needs,’ commercial director Nick Gillings commented at the division’s recent launch event.
‘Speed to market is paramount for our customers, but this has been compromised significantly by supply chain disruptions created by global events. Bringing converting in-house reduces our dependence on external suppliers and allows us to supply customised options, while avoiding delays that are beyond our control.’
Romano Daniels, responsible for supply chain management, marketing and stakeholders, added that the new division will enable the company to capitalise on opportunities in market segments with traditionally long lead times. ‘We’re also now able to offer without delay unique paper sizes not readily found,’ he confirmed. ‘This will save our customers a considerable amount of money, as they will no longer have to opt for standard sizes, with resultant wastage. The division can make exact size requirements for their packaging, print and book or binding needs.’
Expanding on the technology’s capabilities, converting division general manager, Ivan Greeff, noted that the 1 700mm-wide sheeter features an automatic hydraulic reel loader, and auto tension control to ensure that each reel remains tension controlled and grease-free. ‘A decurling device keeps the material flat,’ he continued. ‘Four edge guide units double up as a guide to adjust sheet squareness.
‘The slitter has three blades to cut two sizes out of the width and the sheet to the length required. Each blade can accommodate material weight of up to 550g/m². Maximum output is 300 cuts/min, which equals 18 000 sheets/hour on one reel or 72 000 sheets/hour on four. Sheet size, squareness, count, and the auto tabbing or flagging unit are controlled from a PLC touchscreen.’
Nick pointed out that although sheeting is well established in the industry, Kalideck’s investment gives it the edge, as the technology is the most modern available. ‘With the efficiency of this sheeter, we are able to produce the same volume as three smaller traditional sheeters. The division is designed to handle high volumes, with the speed and accuracy of the HSC unmatched.
‘In addition, we are geared to be a regional sheeting solutions provider, with seven warehouses across the country carrying many tons of reel stock and packaging boards, and an infrastructure responsive to national supply demands and availability,’ Nick noted. ‘These are supported by the most sophisticated inventory and stock management systems, which provide complete visibility and traceability for customers’ peace of mind. Our sales function has also been strengthened to optimise order placement and processing.’
Romano added that Kalideck remains committed to its environmentally sustainable goals and has set up the converting division to ensure that its FSC certification pulls through from the reels to the final converted product, where it applies. ‘Kalideck has received its FSC certification for the thirteenth year in a row, which makes us the longest-serving paper merchant with FSC certification.’
Completing the divisional team alongside Ivan are seasoned product manager Adrian Urie and an experienced technical team headed by Ago Abrantes.
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