Finishing equipment manufacturer A B Graphic International (ABG) has recorded the first sale of its advanced Vectra AutoSet Glue turret rewinder in Germany. TS Etiketten GmbH, a label converter located in Aßlar, has invested in the machine, marking a significant milestone in ABG’s European operations.

With over 30 years of industry experience, TS Etiketten has built a reputation for delivering high-quality and innovative labels. Operating from a modern 4,000-square-meter facility equipped with 13 printing machines, the company turned to ABG for its turret rewinder requirements. The Vectra AutoSet Glue was chosen for its high level of automation, quick job changeovers and ability to handle diverse production requirements.

Andreas Lex, general manager of TS Etiketten, comments, “We were looking for a new partner to replace our existing turret rewinders. As we have a wide range of products that are produced with these machines, it was important to have someone on our side who offers various options to meet these needs. We recently bought a HDTR (Heavy Duty Turret Rewinder) for the production of rolls with a diameter of over 400mm. The Vectra Autoset Glue is more specialized in a quick job changeover and it also has an automated mandrel change, which reduces the time needed for a job change.”

The machine’s ability to run 19mm cores was a key factor in the investment, supporting the growing demand for this specific product type. Its automated core loader, quick-change mandrels and glue pump for automatic refilling ensure seamless operation with minimal manual intervention, maximizing efficiency and reducing downtime. The Vectra range is compatible with most ABG solutions, either standalone or with third-party presses, for a versatile turret rewinder offering.

The Vectra range has been in production for over 30 years, with more than 2600 installations worldwide, leading to the development of the latest Vectra AutoSet in 2024. The range aims to increase efficiencies with automatic make-ready features which is evident in TS Etiketten’s investment. Following a successful installation of their HDTR, a second Vectra, this time an AutoSet with glue, has been ordered, with plans to replace two additional turret rewinders in the future.

The Vectra range continues to develop, with recent innovations including a 76mm bowl feeder equipped with built-in sensors for automated loading and a redesigned core hopper that holds up to 400 cores, reducing manual handling. The range is also compatible with ABG’s automated workflow solution, ABG Connect, allowing full automation and integration with MIS platforms.

Dirk Raming, ABG’s German sales manager says, “We’re thrilled to welcome TS Etiketten as a new customer and provide more efficient solutions tailored to their evolving needs. This milestone not only marks the first Vectra AutoSet Glue sold in Germany but also strengthens our partnership as we support their modernization efforts.”