Existing finishing capacity in Heidelberg was stretched to the limit: the daily Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung is published six days out of seven, and then there is the weekly Wochenkurier. After more than 25 years in operation, the old linear system could no longer handle print runs of 100,000 and 200,000 respectively without a hitch. Disruptions occurred daily and new orders had to be turned away. All this was why Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung decided to completely modernize its mailroom with Ferag technology and invest in two latest-generation lines. The first was installed in the spring of 2017, the second in the summer. Such problems have become a thing of the past since the autumn of 2017, with the company ideally poised to meet every market demand.

In operation meanwhile are a MultiDisc, an MSD-2C inserting drum capable of 45,000 copies per hour and an EasySert with capacity for 30,000, each with seven hoppers. Joining them in the mailroom are four MultiStack compensating stackers along with UTR conveyors and PKT bundle evacuation. Navigator software now sees to efficient control and planning of production in Heidelberg. It visualizes all production processes and aids personnel with quick, easy configuration and monitoring of the system.

High production reliability
Thorough market analysis preceded the decision to employ Ferag solutions for mailroom modernization. On visits to other companies, Manfred Paschke, Head of Finishing, could see for himself the quality of Ferag systems. Many discussions ensued and in mid-2016 Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung decided to accept Ferag’s offer. “System flexibility, stability and efficiency were decisive factors for us,” explains Manfred Paschke. “In the future we want to be more accommodating of what customers ask us for and be capable of processing a greater variety of inserts without experiencing problems.” Significantly increased productivity and reduced staffing requirements put Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung on the safe side economically as well: “The investment in new technology should have paid off in five years,” reckons Manfred Paschke. However, it was not only the technical aspects that mattered to Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung; cooperation with Ferag was also an important factor. Manfred Paschke finds nothing but words of praise for the Ferag team: “Ferag was always very accommodating and helpful, even when we had to change the project schedule at short notice.”

(http://www.ferag.ch)