If you are a high-volume production label converter looking to increase your production while keeping your employees productive and confident in their work, it's time to consider automated plate cleaning. Steinhauser, a fourth-generation family-owned narrow web printer located outside Cincinnati, Ohio, can attest to the numerous benefits of using an automated plate cleaning unit. According to CEO Tara Halpin, it creates efficiency for press crews, reduces make-ready times, eliminates damaged plates, and boosts employee morale. It's a wise investment that can positively affect the bottom line of your operation.

When talking about their automated plate cleaning unit, CEO of Steinhauser Tara Halpin says:

“I cannot imagine running a print facility without one. The efficiency it creates for your press crews, the reduction in make-ready times, damaged plates and the appreciation you will get from your team, makes it a no-brainer.” 

According to Tara Halpin, Steinhauser realized that they could not do manual cleaning anymore: “We were having a significant number of remakes of plates and the costs were through the roof. Simultaneously, the process we were using was not efficient, was a safety hazard, and was causing excess cleanup around the presses.”

Halpin knew that as a high-volume production label converter, she would need to increase her production while keeping her employees' productivity and performance high. The conclusion for Steinhauser was to look in the direction of an automated plate washing machine

The change was quick, results came even faster

Return on Investment was the major deciding factor. Steinhauser wanted to make sure that it would pay for itself, and when they saw that it would do that in just 8 months - they purchased it immediately.

The difference came immediately. Halpin states that “When I saw it run, it was just so simple that I could not believe we did not invest in the technology sooner.” When an operation like Steinhauser runs smoothly day-to-day the profitability of the entire company goes up. Even simple changes can affect the bottom line.

“We talked to our pressmen and helpers and after plenty of use, they continue to be thrilled that we brought the technology into our plant. It is easy to use and maintain, it produces a much cleaner plate and there is the confidence that the plates will be in perfect shape to run the next time. “


5 reasons from customer to customer

Tara Halpin, the CEO of Steinhauser, is a firm believer in the benefits of automated plate cleaning solutions. She highlights five key reasons why other printing companies should consider making the switch.

Firstly, automated cleaning systems are easy to use and maintain, requiring minimal effort from the operators. Secondly, they produce a much cleaner plate that is not damaged during the cleaning process. Thirdly, automated systems are designed according to the type of printer and ink being used, ensuring a customized solution that meets the specific needs of each operation. Fourthly, jobs are done safely and on schedule with less maintenance, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. Finally, giving employees all the tools they need for maximized production creates a positive work culture that boosts employee morale and confidence.

These benefits are not only beneficial for Steinhauser but can be applied to any high-volume production label converter looking to increase their production while keeping their employees productive and confident in their work.

To summarize, the top 5 reasons for switching from manual to automated plate cleaning are:

✔️ Automated cleaning systems are easy to use and maintain.

✔️ They produce a much cleaner plate and they are not damaged.

✔️ Automated systems are designed according to the type of printer and ink you use.

✔️ Jobs are done safely and on schedule with less maintenance.

✔️ Giving employees all the tools, they need for maximized production creates a productive work culture.

Learn more about automated plate cleaning solutions from Flexo Wash - click here!