Rollem Managing Director, Stuart Murphy, is one of four new Council members for Picon, which represents suppliers to the printing, publishing, papermaking and paper converting industries.

Newcomers to Council are Iain Bullock from Renz, Tim Cox from Vpress, Ryan Miles from Heidelberg and Stuart Murphy from Rollem. Upfront asked the quartet what it was they valued about Picon membership and what they hope to add now that they have joined Council. The networking opportunities are important to all four, with Stuart identifying the special benefits this provides to SMEs: “There’s real value in having access to a network of businesses facing similar issues and sharing similar experiences. As well as providing a sounding-board for ideas, it gives us a degree of comfort.”

Iain prizes the “open, and if necessary confidential, discussions with individuals performing a similar role to myself in the industry”, while Ryan lists the benefits as “networking, industry identity, collective thinking, industry promotion and heritage.” For Tim, membership represents a barometer on the industry, our peers and competitors.”

The new blood brings to Council a historical understanding of where the organisation has come from and where its priorities should be going forwards (Iain), insight into areas such as cloud-based architecture and complex integration (Tim), and an engineering pedigree and northern background! (Stuart). Ryan believes his experience with a global manufacturer presence will benefit the wider membership.

To visit the Picon website please click here

Rollem are responding to the ever-changing print finishing market by engaging with a partner organisation in the financial services sector, to create an offer for customers and potential customers as an opportunity to “test the water” in a new market or product area, by renting a production line or specific modules on a short-term agreement.

As companies look to secure their future by diversifying into new products or markets, this can drive the need for new capacity or capability, which means investing hard earned capital in machinery to deliver this, with the risk that the new venture does not deliver the anticipated result. Rollem’s latest initiative now allows them to explore new opportunities, and at the same time to limit their longer-term exposure.

The modular nature of much of Rollem’s equipment allows them to design and create bespoke production lines with specialised capability, using generic modules combined with application specific software. These can be assembled in relatively short periods of time and installed on a customer site ready to capitalise on the new opportunity.

The customer can the test out the business, and, once the market has been assessed and established, the equipment can be either, purchased outright with appropriate credit given for the sum already paid in rent, or returned to Rollem.

To discuss packages please contact Stewart Dyer on [email protected] or +44 1226 745476

Article by Simon Eccles

In this series of features, Printweek is highlighting some of the UK’s world-beating development and engineering businesses.

Rollem plays it’s cards right

This developer of bespoke finishing devices is marking 90 years of manufacturing this year.

About half of our Best of British subjects and future candidates have surprisingly long histories. They’ve survived by adapting to the huge changes in technologies, social and economic conditions over the years and still manage to present relevant products to the market. Often they’re successful exporters too. Rollem certainly ticks these boxes. The end of this year marks its 90th birthday and today’s products remain on the (literal) cutting edge, integrating finishing with digital and analogue presses. Turnover is currently £3m, with 80% of work exported.

Its machines can be configured and customised to finish products including playing and trading cards, business cards, photobooks, mailings, shelf edge labels, postcards, CD inlays and raised print. Customers include international brands such as Bluetree Design & Print, Hasbro, Panini, Pokemon and Xerox.

To download the full article please click here

Rollem will be exhibiting at The Print Show 2019 at NEC in Birmingham from Tuesday 17th to Thursday 19th September on stand P34.

Come and talk to the team about the latest new developments including:

• The new MK3 SlipStream for playing cards, game cards and trading cards;
• AutoPunch which provides a ‘Casino Quality Card finish’;
• New MIS interfaces and Andon Displays.
• New monthly rental deals for print finishing systems starting from £995 excluding VAT.
• The recently launched SlipStream refurbishment service which include new feeder, registration and upgraded electronics package. Read more here.
• Ex display – Used and rebuilt systems available from stock.

The Print Show showcases every aspect of the production process from Digital, Litho, Finishing and Software solutions through to specialist print related service providers. Simply put, whichever part of the print sector you are involved in, if you want solutions to help you stay ahead of your competition then The Print Show has it covered.

To find out more and book your free place to attend please click here.

Innovation is hard wired into the circuitry of all the smaller companies who attended the latest of our informal ‘brew and bytes’ meet ups – kindly supported on this occasion by Patent Attorneys, Withers & Rogers – at Factory 2050, the place where digital meets manufacturing.

“I was massively impressed and amazed that a facility like the AMRC, which can enhance SMEs, is on our doorstep,” says first time visitor to Factory 2050, Ciaran O’Shea, Director of Nprime, which specialises in instrumentation, telemetry, data capture and analysis.

“The work the AMRC does, and the technology it has, is second to none, globally. To have this expertise that SMEs can reference and draw on is unique,” said Ciaran, whose company has strong trading links with the US. “We see similar relationships in America, but I feel there is something special in the relationship that you are trying to build between manufacturing SMEs and the AMRC here in Sheffield.”

“We see similar relationships in America, but I feel there is something special in the relationship that you are trying to build between manufacturing SMEs and the AMRC here in Sheffield.”

The east end of Sheffield based firm, established in 2003, is a specialised supplier of data acquisition and telemetry solutions to the engineering industry including Caterpillar, Jaguar Land Rover, BAE Systems and London Underground.

After the meet up, Ciaran was clear: “Without innovation we remain stagnant, we presently have three proof of concept projects, two people full time employed in new technology and 17% of our turnover is next generation technology, projects and proof of concepts.

“While Nprime is at the cutting edge with what we do, this engagement with the AMRC makes me feel we could access some of its R&D expertise to become more efficient and create solutions for the future. We are interested in sitting with the AMRC to have a kick off meeting regarding an R&D project we are launching shortly.”

Stuart Murphy from Rollem described the digital meet manufacturing event as ‘very important’ and came away with four potential avenues to explore with the AMRC engineers: automation, vision systems, industrial internet of things, and production control software.

“We presently have three proof of concept projects, two people full time employed in new technology and 17% of our turnover is next generation technology, projects and proof of concepts.”

“The AMRC – and Alan Lyons and his team as the liaison link – are essential to the Sheffield City Region SME community,” added Stuart, who is MD and owner of this innovative print finishing company which exports 85% of its production, including 50% to the US market.

Belinda Naylor, Business Development Manager at family-owned engineering and design consultants Webster Technologies, said: “The more we can learn and understand about Industry technologies the easier it will be to identify opportunities to integrate them into the business. Gaining confidence and knowledge about digital technologies through forums and networking events like this supports the adoption of smart technologies.

Belinda is keen to explore how virtual reality, telematics and remote monitoring could not only help her company understand more about the performance of its attachments, but also prove to be useful as a training and skills tool. “Virtual reality, using simulators as a way of learning how to operate equipment such as excavators is also a great way of engaging younger people with our industry,” she said.

“We are interested in sitting with the AMRC to have a kick off meeting regarding an R&D project we are launching shortly.”

There was advice, too, for the AMRC. “It’s good to have more activities like this – events that are interactive, not overly technical. Anything that gives people an opportunity to get together; maybe something like a topic on innovation with attendees splitting into smaller groups during the event to encourage conversation and networking,” Belinda added.

For Alan Lyons this feedback is vital. “Our role is to introduce digital technology and digital tech companies to manufacturing, to show that by working together we can drive big improvements in own productivity and profitability not only at the level of the firm, but also across the regional and national economy. We are all on a learning journey. The more meets we have like this, the easier it will be to spread the word across the Sheffield City Region about the opportunities that are opened up when digital meets manufacturing.”

For Ciaran O’Shea, the opportunity to engage in a five-day free consultation with research engineers at the AMRC was an eye-opener: “I plan on making contact regarding this. Nprime’s expertise in bespoke measurement solutions and the AMRC’s facilities and expertise have clear synergies that could enhance what Nprime do.” Before his visit to Factory 2050 Ciaran confessed that he ‘thought AMRC was out of bounds’ seeing it as a competitor: but now he sees it very differently. “We will be in touch soon.”

If you are an SME who wants to learn more about how the AMRC can help your business make digital technology work for you, contact Alan Lyons at [email protected]. If you are a digital/tech company that thinks you can support manufacturing get in touch via the Digital Meet Manufacturing page on the AMRC website at https://bit.ly/2Z8QWfO.

On 16^th July, The Master and Mistress Cutler, Nick and Liz Cragg visited Rollem, based in Barnsley, to officially open the facilities as part of the celebration of Rollem’s 90^th year in business.

In late 1929, the company’s founder Joseph Mellor set up a general engineering firm in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, specialising in brass casting. With the innovative approach that was to become a hallmark of his success, Mellor reversed his surname and christened his new venture ‘Rollem’. The company expanded into subcontract machining and developed first innovative products for the print industry, which were machines to crease and perforate the paper. With the typical machine, the Model S looking more like a 19^th century Singer sewing machine than the machines of today.

Today over 80% of the production is exported, turnover is around £3m per year and the company now employs around 40. Employees include engineering graduates, time-served skilled machinists, fitters and apprentices working and learning with Rollem, whilst studying at the AMRC-Training Centre in Rotherham.

Nick and Liz Cragg met with Managing Director, Stuart Murphy; European Sales Manager, Stewart Dyer; Business Support Manager, Rachel Murphy and Marketing Manager, Jackie Cook before having a tour of the facility, seeing everything from design through to assembly of the print finishing systems.

Nick Cragg, Master Cutler said “On behalf of Liz and myself, thank you and your staff for a marvellous visit to Rollem yesterday afternoon. What a product range and customer base you have – so many interesting stories and applications! Your staff were the real stars of the show. You clearly have some very experienced, loyal and gifted people working alongside you. What a privilege to be asked to open your new building.”

Bill Jones, Fitting Shop Foreman was demonstrating the recently refurbished Rollem SlipStream system. The system, originally built in 1989, is having an upgrade as part of a new service being offered by the company.

The machine enclosures, structures and mechanical parts can be fully refurbished, reconditioned or, in the case of moving mechanical components, completely replaced.

The first one of these refurbished SlipStreams is now very close to completion, and, even under close inspection, could be mistaken for a new machine. Shiny paintwork, gleaming chrome rollers, and new gears and drive belts are the outwardly visible indications of the care and attention which has been lavished on the project.

The high-tech, touchscreen controls, digital motors with PLC drive controls, remote diagnostics, and integration capability, set a new standard of operation and functionality that would have amazed the original inventor and Rollem Chairman, Mr James Hill, seen here (right) with fellow Director Mr Albert Hobson.

Stuart Murphy, Managing Director said “We are proud to celebrate our 90th year in business, we continue to build on our history with innovation in our products and services, investment in our facilities and a commitment to training and developing our people. The next 90 years is set to bring further innovation and growth.”

Rollem apprentice, Blake Goldworthy, talked to the Master and Mistress Cutler about his apprenticeship and studying at the AMRC-Training Centre in Rotherham. In 2018, Rollem took on 3 apprentices who are all studying towards Level 2 and Level 3 Mechanical Maintenance apprenticeships.

Lound Junior School in Chapeltown held their annual family festival at the end of June.  Lound Fest has been running for two years now and is a great family event and is a genuine celebration of the community. Adults and children listen to live music, eat, drink and have fun.

Rollem sponsored the food tents for the festival. Stuart Murphy, Managing Director of Rollem said “We are keen to support the local community with events such as this. Rollem has been based in Ecclesfield and now Tankersley for 90 years and believe in putting something back into the area.”

Deputy Headteacher, Richard Cottam said “Genuinely, your sponsorship makes a big difference to the school.”

To view the video of Loundfest 2018, click here

On Sunday 23^rd June 2019, 72 golfers came together to play golf and raise money for the British Heart Foundation in memory of 34-year-old football manager, Chris Ledwell.

Chris was a football manager for Thorncliffe Football Club, including running his own daughter’s under-10 girls’ team. Sadly, and unexpectedly, he passed away on 7^th March this year. This is a tragic loss and is also less than 12 months since the family lost their 17-year-old son Carter to cancer.

The club wanted to pull together the community and personal friends, to help raise funds for Christopher’s widow Becki and daughter Matilda. The club hosted a family fun day at the St. Georges Football Club and Thorncliffe Pavilion Club on Saturday 22^nd, with the charity golf day taking place the following day.

The charity golf day took place at Tankersley Golf Club with Rollem sponsoring the prize for the winning team. Rollem’s General Manager, Andy Longston, plays football for Thorncliffe Football Club and took part in the charity golf day in memory of Chris.

Pictures: Golf – courtesy of Oliver Whittaker, Instagram

Chris Ledwell – courtesy of Karen Whittaker, Facebook Chris Ledwood Funday page

Back in September 1980, Rollem supplied the world’s first SlipStream card finishing machine to Grammer & Co. in Kent, in the UK, run by David Endersby.

For the next 39 years, the Rollem SlipStream has been the benchmark machine in the industry, producing playing and game cards by the billion. Although the levels of automation and functionality may have evolved over time, the machine still operates on the same basic principle, and even early models are still in use throughout the world. Rollem, to this day, are still able to provide spares and support for the core modules of the machine.

Recently Rollem, at their international headquarters in the UK, have been busy developing an enhancement programme to allow the upgrading of any SlipStream model to support their efficient operation in the 21^st century.

The hand-feed table, or early automatic feeder, will be replaced with an up-to-date, high capacity, Rollem Deep Pile Feeder, and highly accurate register table, integrated with the rest of the machine, to provide unprecedented periods of continuous running.

The motors and drive control system can be upgraded to 21^st century PLC technology, providing modern levels of reliability and consistency, and advanced diagnostic capabilities, including remote access and over-the-air updates. The updated electronics also provides previously inconceivable levels of intelligent integration with upstream and downstream equipment such as the Rollem AutoPunch.

After this upgrade, the SlipStream becomes much simpler to setup, operate and maintain, replacing the mechanical settings with a single touchscreen.

The machine enclosures, structures and mechanical parts can be fully refurbished, reconditioned or, in the case of moving mechanical components, completely replaced.

The first one of these refurbished SlipStreams is now very close to completion, and, even under close inspection, could be mistaken for a new machine. Shiny paintwork, gleaming chrome rollers, and new gears and drive belts are the outwardly visible indications of the care and attention which has been lavished on the project.

The high-tech, touchscreen controls, digital motors with PLC drive controls, remote diagnostics, and integration capability, set a new standard of operation and functionality that would have amazed the original inventor and Rollem Chairman, Mr James Hill, seen here (right) with fellow Director Mr Albert Hobson.

If you are lucky enough to be a Rollem SlipStream owner or user, and you would like to find out more about how Rollem can help to ensure your machine will continue to provide efficient and reliable service, and up-to-date levels of automation and functionality, please get in touch with Stewart Dyer on +44 (0) 1226 745476 or email [email protected] .

USA based Rollem International announced the hiring of Paul Byrne as its Northeast Sales Representative. Byrne most recently served as the Regional Finishing Solutions Manager for C.P. Bourg Company.

He brings many years of finishing experience to Rollem International where he will represent Rollem’s Slitting, Scoring, Perforating, and Collating systems along with the Insignia Series of sheet-fed rotary diecutters and Durselen automated paper drilling systems. He is based in the Boston, Mass., area and will cover the New England area and Eastern Canada.

To visit the Rollem International website click here