In today’s fast-paced world, where time to market is critical, most print businesses know that automation can no longer be seen as a luxury – it’s the key to staying efficient and profitable.
Automation reduces errors, increases productivity and lowers labour costs. Therefore, for printers looking to achieve a smooth workflow with minimal manual intervention, reviewing what parts of the production process can be automated should be a key priority.
As print technologies become faster, cutting solutions must also feature into the equation and seamlessly fit into end-to-end workflows. The good news is that digital cutting tables are continuously advancing, both in terms of production speed and workflow integration.
Scalable automation options to fit every print business
It’s also important to consider that automation throughout the cutting process comes in different formats and at varying investment levels. As they would with an investment in technology, print companies should take a holistic overview of their operations, capacity and needs before deciding on the level of automation needed for their business. Rather than an expensive all or nothing investment that fixes all issues, there are more affordable and flexible options that still deliver high ROI. So, for those businesses looking to invest – research is a must!
At Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems (PCS), automation is a cornerstone of our offering and we have a range of options that, combined with our cutting tables, advanced tooling and integrated workflow software, are helping printers achieve faster turnarounds, greater precision and reduced manual intervention.
Throughout production, it’s important for printers that all applications are processed with the same precision, accuracy and efficiency. Our newly introduced Smart Material Handler (SMH) enables this precision. The semi-automatic modular sheet handling solution is designed to minimise manual intervention and optimise sheet flow on Kongsberg C and Ultimate series cutting tables. Alternatively, for print producers who want to fully automate the sheet handling process, our Robotic Material Handler (RMH) loads and unloads materials directly from and to pallets with high precision, due to the support of our patented Dynamic Gripper.
Our Feeder and Stacker technology, also at the higher end of the automations scale, is designed to manage complex materials, allowing for more efficient feeding and stacking, which increases productivity and reduces the risk of costly errors. For companies looking for uniformity and precision for applications beyond the standard format, the Feeder and Stacker combination speeds up short run production by eliminating manual handling bottlenecks and reduces both material damage and waste. This guarantees that each sheet is processed accurately and maintains the structural integrity necessary for trickier application requirements.
For the cutting process itself, our Motorised Roll Feeder uses an active material feed for the Kongsberg C table to eliminate inaccurate cuts on soft signage jobs usually caused by wrinkles, stretch distortion or imperfectly rewound materials. Kongsberg cutting tables are also supported by the i-cut Production Console (iPC), an integrated software suite that enables straightforward and efficient operation.
Expert partners drive successful automated print workflows
Alongside the products themselves, we believe that the key to achieving a successful automated workflow is working with technology and software partners who understand your goals and can provide solutions and guidance to achieve them.
At Kongsberg PCS, we work in partnership with businesses to imagine and unlock their full creative and commercial potential. We know that for any business time is money. So, when our experts discuss ways to maximise client productivity, quality and efficiency, we do so with an understanding that these aren’t just metrics but rather the building blocks to support our clients’ business goals.
Display and in-store decoration specialist, Berma, is a prime example of this. In 2025, we supported them to expand their capabilities and improve their productivity with a Feeder & Stacker connected to their Kongsberg C66. This addition to their workflow has already provided clear business benefits, including high ROI and a reduction in operator intervention. By placing a pallet with material, they are able to leave the machine running without the operator’s presence. The factory shuts down, the staff leaves, and the machine keeps working through the night, so the next morning the material is cut.
A poignant example of how we support our customers is by helping them to establish how productive technology and automation features can enable them to free up skilled operators. By doing so, they can divert valuable time to alternative areas of the business where employees can make a greater contribution.
For businesses planning investments, whatever their reasons, the path forward is clear: scalable automation, minimised downtime and high-speed precision will define the future. And we’re confident that with innovative cutting solutions and expert partner support, print providers can leverage the benefits of automation as they prepare for a prosperous future.
Dimitri van Gaever, Global Marketing Director, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems
