New system provides an automated, single-pass solution for ink dispensing, blending and container labelling, improving ergonomics and efficiency in the ink kitchen.

Brummen, the Netherlands: Ink logistics provider GSE introduces the modular conveyor system, designed for the automatic, safe and efficient transport of ink containers within the ink kitchen. This new system streamlines the preparation of colours for production in the packaging printing house, improving both ergonomics and workflow efficiency.

Compatible with GSE’s Colorsat Compact dispensing systems, the customizable conveyor system is especially suited for wide web applications where large volumes of ink are processed.

With its extendible, push-rolling system to feed containers, the conveyor provides a single-pass solution for dispensing, optional blending and batch labelling, after which the container is offloaded for delivery to the press or to storage.

Maarten Hummelen, GSE marketing director, comments: “Over-reliance on manual transportation of materials in the factory can be a cause of delays and errors, and ultimately added costs. By automating container movement in the ink kitchen, the GSE conveyor system helps accelerate the colour making process - improving responsiveness, efficiency, and safety. It also gives staff have more time for other valuable pressroom tasks.”

Customizable design to suit throughput levels and container sizes
The conveyor handles 25L and 60L buckets, and 200L drums, and is customizable to meet specific height requirements and space availability in the ink kitchen. Each of its four functional sections - infeed, weighing, blending and outfeed - may be adapted in length and width, to suit throughput levels and ink container dimensions. Up to three parallel infeed conveyors may be built into the system, to accommodate different container types and sizes.

Manual options
The conveyor may be configured for manual or automatic operation. Automatic conveyors for water-based inks are equipped with electric motor rollers, while those for solvent-based inks are air-driven for optimum safety. Both automatic versions offer bidirectional operation, automatic container positioning, and optimized controls via GSE Ink manager software. Manual systems feature gravity roller conveyor sections and a foot-lever to release the container after dispensing.

Removable stainless steel rollers and drip trays under the rollers facilitate easy cleaning, while solvent ink conveyor lines come with explosion-proof grounding.

Additionally, the height of the Colorsat Compact dispense head may be increased to accommodate different conveyor heights.