For more than a decade, Slate Group has realized the benefits of Sentinel iPro systems. A new Komori sheetfed-offset perfector is its latest press.
CARROLLTON, TX – February 3, 2025 – Sentinel, a global leader in automated ink management systems announces the successful integration of its Sentinel iPro Ink Management System with a new Komori Lithrone GL840P advance perfector at Slate Group. Installed in June 2024, the eight-color press, which utilizes LED-UV inks, is Slate Group’s third 40-inch sheetfed-offset press from Komori and its first perfecting model.
The Lubbock, TX-based printing firm continues to embrace cutting-edge technology to enhance its production capabilities. “Our other two Lithrones are straight-five, full-size presses,” explains Production Manager Steve Witt, who has been with Slate Group for nearly three decades. Earlier this year, the company sold its 29-inch Komori press to accommodate the new perfector within its 100,000-square-foot facility, which includes a full bindery. “All of our offset presses have featured the Sentinel system, dating back to at least 2013,” Witt notes.
Automation Enhances Efficiency
For Witt and his team, the Sentinel iPro system has been transformative. “The automation is by far the biggest overall benefit,” Witt emphasizes. The system’s precision ink delivery ensures clean, efficient operations, with canisters producing a smooth bead of ink that minimizes manual intervention. “The Sentinel canisters help keep our pressroom clean and efficient—our guys aren’t slinging ink everywhere,” he says.
The system maintains a constant flow of ink, enhancing consistency across the press units. “With the Sentinels, ink is even all the way across,” Witt continues. “From a print color quality standpoint, it makes it easier for us to provide more consistency to our clients.”
Sustainability and Waste Reduction
In addition to improved efficiency, the Sentinel iPro system contributes to sustainability by reducing ink waste. “When running LED, we leave our ink in the fountain and only dip it out once a week—sometimes once every two weeks,” Witt explains. “There’s far less waste and much better control with the iPro. We definitely see less ink spoilage.”
The reduction in waste aligns with Slate Group’s commitment to responsible production practices while simultaneously cutting costs. “Presses deploying Sentinels definitely use less ink,” Witt adds.
Scaling Up for Demand
The addition of the perfecting press has enabled Slate Group to meet growing demand, particularly for four-color process work such as books and publications. To accommodate the increased workload, Witt has expanded production to a third shift. The company serves diverse markets, including agriculture and higher education, with projects that vary widely in page count and complexity.
Technology Driving Success
For Sentinel Sales Director David Doucette, the appeal of automation is clear. “Like many customers, Slate Group recognized the labor-saving benefits of Sentinel technology,” he states. “Using the iPro system frees up press helpers to focus on tasks such as monitoring and staging the next job. The labor efficiency is a significant advantage for printing companies looking to optimize operations.”
With its commitment to innovation and efficiency, Slate Group continues to solidify its position as a leader in commercial printing.
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