Sentinel Installs Ink Management System at Printed Specialties
Sentinel announces the successful installation of its iPro Ink Management System at Printed Specialties. The system was integrated in September 2024 on Printed Specialties’ Koenig & Bauer Rapida 106 sheetfed offset press.
The iPro Ink Management System | Credit: Sentinel
Printed Specialties, a fourth-generation packaging and folding carton provider has built a reputation for excellence over its 110-year history. Based in Carrollton, Georgia, just 50 miles outside of Atlanta, the company produces high-quality materials for a diverse range of industries, including product, media, and promotional packaging. Their longstanding commitment to innovation led them to invest in Sentinel’s iPro technology, further strengthening their ability to deliver precision and efficiency to their customers.
“The vision of Greg Smith, our company president, was to expand on the efficiencies of our press capabilities,” explains Kenny Lynn, Printed Specialties General Manager. “When we replaced our two legacy presses with a KBA 106 Rapida, we installed the Ink Sentinels along with them.”
The impact of the iPro has been invaluable to Printed Specialities. “The iPro system is an awesome tool,” says Lynn. “Installing the Sentinels on our press has definitely streamlined our ink management. It gives us flexibility of managing our ink processes when we're using the system versus dipping out an ink can.”
iPro’s ultrasonic sensor monitors the amount of ink in the fountain, and automatically replaces it just where it is needed. This results in less ink spoilage, reduced skinning, and faster color changes, making the entire printing process more sustainable and cost-effective. “There is a cost savings with the Sentinels,” Lynn confirms. “It distributes the ink at a much more even flow.”
Another major benefit Printed Specialities has seen with their integration of the Sentinel iPro system is the enhanced efficiency and flexibility for press operators. “One of the main advantages we’ve experienced in the shop with the Sentinel system is the flexibility it gives our press crew,” explains Lynn.
“The ink management system will tell you when the canister needs to be replaced. It gives our pressman the signal, and it takes them less than two to three seconds to change it out. There's a huge cost savings in that, not only from a waste standpoint, but it also frees up operators to do a bunch of other duties. They can focus on printing instead of worrying about the ink being distributed on the press.” This streamlined approach allows Printed Specialties to deliver the fast turnarounds and versatility of service their customers expect—without sacrificing quality.
"We are thrilled to partner with Printed Specialties to enhance their pressroom efficiency," said David Doucette, Sales Director at Sentinel. "This installation not only streamlines their ink workflow and reduces waste but it also gives their operators more flexibility. By automating key processes, iPro allows operators to focus on production quality, all while maximizing uptime and consistency."
With this successful installation, Printed Specialties continues its legacy of innovation, ensuring that its customers receive superior packaging solutions with precision, speed, and sustainability.
The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Printing Impressions. The views expressed within do not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of Printing Impressions.
