In narrow-web label converting, the pressroom often outperforms the finishing department. While digital and flexo presses run at maximum speeds, the slitter-rewinder sits idle as operators manually measure, space, and lock down shear knives using calipers and Allen keys.

For high-mix, short-run production, manual knife positioning is a massive operational bottleneck. Transitioning to an automatic knife positioning system changes the game entirely, dropping setup times to under 45 seconds.

Lesko Engineering provides a highly competitive, common-sense solution:

• Top-Tier Quality, Smart Investment: Designed and manufactured in Europe, our automated slitting stations utilize premium global components to deliver precision matching the industry's most expensive brands—at a highly rational price point.
• 100% Service & Support Guarantee: We eliminate the risk of long-distance machinery sourcing. Our clients receive direct, reliable access to factory engineers and rapid parts availability, ensuring maximum machine uptime.

Hard Data: The Hidden Hours Leaking From Your Floor

Calculated across a standard two-shift operation (250 working days, averaging 6 changeovers per shift), manual setups cause severe cumulative losses compared to automated systems:

380 mm Web Width (e.g., Lesko CL380)

• 5-Knife Layout: Manual setup takes 10 mins. Automation saves 475 hours of machine capacity per year.
• 10-Knife Layout: Manual setup takes 18 mins. Automation saves 862.5 hours of machine capacity per year.

440 mm Web Width (e.g., Lesko HI440 or Lesko CL440)

• 5-Knife Layout: Manual setup takes 12 mins. Automation saves 575 hours of machine capacity per year.
• 10-Knife Layout: Manual setup takes 20 mins. Automation saves 962.5 hours of machine capacity per year.

The Efficiency Verdict: For a 10-knife setup on a 440 mm web, automating the slitting station reclaims up to 60 full working days annually. Instead of burning margin during manual changeovers, your line remains in continuous, profitable production.

Every label converting floor has a unique job mix, material profile, and shift structure. We don't believe in one-size-fits-all pricing or unoptimized machinery.

Discover how a robust, European-engineered slitting upgrade can secure your operational capacity without breaking your budget.

Contact us today for a technical consultation, detailed specifications, and a tailored financial payback analysis.