The Houston Chronicle purchased 15 NP3 strapping machines from Dynaric Inc. for its postpress department.

“We have been replacing our strappers for the past three years,” said Steven Earles, packaging and distribution manager at the newspaper. “All replacements will be complete by the summer of 2003.”

The newspaper (daily, 552,052; Sunday, 744,935) recently purchased a GMA gripper conveyor, Sitma onserting lines, Enternet insert controls and Quipp stackers

“We selected Dynaric after testing several strappers,” Earles said. “We selected Dynaric because of the performance of the equipment and outstanding support we received.”

Each strapping machine is equipped with a warning light tower, table height adjustment, bundle compression system and soft clamp compression, which shapes itself to the bundle’s contour for uniform compression.

An external operator interface provides users with information about the operational status of the unit as well as other performance data.

The NP3 is rated at 45 straps per minute and can produce 38 single-strapped, or 18 parallel-strapped, bundles per minute.

“What we like in the NP3 includes its safety features, reliability and the support we receive when we have problems,” Earles said.

With its low bundle sensor, soft clamp compression, wider tension range and bundle conditioning system, the NP3 applies the proper amount of tension allowing for a uniform bundle.

The NP3 features removable panels, an end-of-strap sensor, quick-change dispenser and external adjustable tension control.