THE NEW STANDARD IN FLEXO STACK
CI
INLINE
GEARLESS SERVO OR GEARED FAST ON-PRESS PLATE/ANILOX SLEEVE CHANGES SERVO OR MANUAL PLATE/ANILOX POSITIONING 1-10 COLORS • 2-150” WIDE DOWNSTREAM OR COMPLETE LINES
CONTACT RETROFLEX
phone: (920) 532-4850 • fax: (920) 532-4854
[email protected] • www.retroflex.com
Advanced Technologies in solvent recycling/reclaim/reuse & water waste treatment PPCTS / ECO congratulates Prairie State Group Co-recipient of the 2011 FTA Environmental Excellence Award
Dan Doherty Executive VP / Principal Prairie State Group Richard McDonald President PPCTS / ECO
SR180V BATCH SOLVENT RECYCLER
Solvent Recyclers Distillation Columns Water and Solvent Separators Water Evaporators Thermal Evaporators Water Flocculation Systems
HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT, SUSTAINABILITY AND THE BOTTOM LINE
Contact PPC Technologies & Solutions LLC for more information Ph: (262) 695-7536 ●
[email protected] ● www.ppcts.com/solventrecyclers.htm
T H E IN D I S P E N S A B LE TOOL FOR C O N V E R T E R S & P R I N T E R S O F FLE X I B LE PA C K A GI N G
Table of Contents ®
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16 COVER FEATURE BEST PRACTICES Upgrading Your Business Strategy A strong business strategy and the implementation of best practices create a sense of what is expected in business.
20
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
10 FPA UPDATE
8 EDITOR’S FORUM
Flexible Packaging Association Update FPA Releases 2011 State of the Flexible Packaging Industry Report…2011 Fall Executive Conference Update…and more.
24
14 CONVERTER NEWS Two New Acquisitions Announced…New VP Welcomed…and The End Result.
20 PRINTING: OFFSET
28 INDUSTRY INSIGHT
The Role of Offset in Flexible Packaging It’s important to consider current industry trends when choosing printing options. Tim Payne of Gateway Packaging Company offers his perspective on this.
30 SUPPLIER NEWS System Unveiled in China…Press Installations… Donation to Flexo School Presented…and more. 34 HOT PRODUCTS
24 TECHNOLOGY: INSPECTION/DETECTION Accurate Measurement for Better Control Accurate length and speed measurements are critical for converters of flexible packaging to improve process automation and control.
37 CLASSIFIEDS 41 CALENDAR OF EVENTS/ AD INDEX
26 Q&A ON NARROW WEB (SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION)
42 INDUSTRY Q&A: ADHESIVES
26
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AUGUST 2011
Reaching the Best Adhesion Bonnie Richter, business manager, splicing division, at Adhesives Research, Inc., offers her 20 years of insight into this sector of the industry.
www.flexpackmag.com | FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
AN AIRTIGHT ALLIANCE NEVER LOOKED SO SWEET. While most people associate success with outsidethe-box-thinking, we at Danafilms believe our best achievements include the partnerships we built inside the box. Such is the case with AirLiner, an inflatable, insulating plastic liner featuring leading-edge package design by Coldpack, and a precision-engineered film by Danafilms. Like the trademark hard candy shell
shipped in the box, the film in the AirLiner uses a unique combination of innovations—including a custom film blend, exceptional seal properties, and precision extrusion and barrier technology—to provide maximum protection to the candies. Premium film designed to perform, mixed with the collaboration of leading-edge companies is a recipe for true competitive advantage.
A MEMBER OF RKW-GROUP
Look to danafilms.com or call our film experts at 800.634.8289 ISO 9001 Certified
T H E IN D I S P E N S A B LE TOOL FOR C O N V E R T E R S & P R I N T E R S O F FLE X I B LE PA C K A GI N G
Online Content ®
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WWW.FLEXPACKMAG.COM FAST ACCESS TO WEB-ONLY FEATURES SUCH AS:
JOB SEARCH epackagingjobs.com, the premier online job search site for packaging professionals. “Unwrap your potential!”
TIMELINE OF INNOVATIONS in Flexible Packaging from the past 10 years.
NEW! FLEXPACKREPORT NEWSLETTER delivers the latest research and business data needed by flexible packaging converters. Includes links to sources of current resin prices. Sign up for your FREE subscription today.
BREAKING NEWS about film manufacturers and converters—get your competitive intelligence here!
CONNECT WITH FLEXIBLE PACKAGING NOW: FACEBOOK AND TWITTER
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AUGUST 2011
www.flexpackmag.com | FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
When quality matters, choose ISO Poly Films.
“Our passion for excellence results in superior quality films, advanced technologies and unparalleled service for each and every customer.”
It’s easy to find companies that deliver films based on price, but quality is sacrificed. At ISO Poly Films, a Sigma Plastics Group company, quality is at our core, from our people and processes to our state-of-the-art equipment and suppliers.
Jon McClure, President and COO ISO Poly Films, Inc. of the Sigma Plastics Group
Our commitment to quality means high performance plastic films for your critical applications… advanced films that deliver value through our cost-saving solutions, progressive manufacturing methods and wellengineered extrusion capabilities. With 50 million pounds of new barrier and co-extrusion capacity added in the past two years, ISO Poly Films is ready to deliver our quality films to you.
Innovation advanced. Performance perfected. Quality mastered. Service redefined. High Performance Films for Critical Applications. 101 ISO Parkway • Gray Court, SC 1-888-814-7676 • www.isopoly.com
Editor’s Forum
THE INDISPENSABL E TOOL F OR CONVERTERS & PRINTERS OF FLEXIBLE PACKAGING
®
RECOGNIZING THE ROOTS OF YOUR PROBLEMS othing’s perfect. We all know that. There are always times when things just happen to go wrong, and then things are able to be steered back on track. But when it continues to happen over and over again, are you able to recognize the root of the problem? Have you ever thought of why things might be going wrong with your company? If one particular area or section of the company is, maybe it’s time to re-evaluate the situation, and implement a set of best practices. Best practices are those companywide or industry-specific sets of standards by which employees follow. Making sure these sets of rules are in place, understood and followed throughout the company will help to ensure a more consistent routine, and ultimately, a more successful outcome. Some of the best examples of best practices can be found in this month’s cover story. Upgrading Your Business Strategy on page 16 of this issue includes best practices from a film extruder. As the tagline states: A strong business strategy and the implementation of best practices create a sense of what is expected in business. Read on to see what a fellow film extruder is doing to perpetuate the company’s advancements. And be sure to go through the checklist of questions to figure out if an updated set of rules needs to be applied at your company.
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Are you able to recognize the roots of your problems? The Printing section, page 20, highlights The Role of Offset in Flexible Packaging. The importance of which print option to choose is discussed in this intelligently-written article. Page 24 highlights the Technology section on Accurate Measurement for Better Control, which explains inspection and detection for improved process and automation control. How to make the most of your Adhesive choices are talked about on page 42. The monthly Special Advertisers Section offers the Q&A on Narrow Web, page 26, and gives insight into the latest features, hottest trends and common problems in this industry sector. And be sure to stop on pages 14 and 30 for our Converter News and Supplier News sections for the up-andup of industry happenings. Sometimes all you need is a more structured set of rules to speed up your company’s progress. And you know what they say, recognizing that you have a problem is the first step to solving it. FP Sincerely, ERIN J. WOLFORD (847) 740-2338
[email protected]
Packaging Group Publisher Mike Barr,
[email protected] Publisher Randy Green,
[email protected] National Sales Manager Steve Liput,
[email protected] Inside Sales Kristina Lorio,
[email protected] BNP Custom Media Group Christopher Wilson,
[email protected] EDITORIAL Editor-In-Chief Erin J. Wolford,
[email protected] Marketing Coordinator Elisabeth Cuneo,
[email protected] Art Director Frank J. Mayeran Advertising/Production Manager Courtney Warnimont EDITORIAL BOARD George Thibeault, Constantia Hueck Foils LLC Michael Impastato, Flint Ink. Fredy Steng, Berry Plastics Marla Donahue, Flexible Packaging Association FPA OFFICERS Chairman John Baumann, Ampac Packaging LLC Immediate Past Chairperson James E. Love, III, Printpack Inc. Executive Vice-Chairman (chairman-elect) William Burke, Nordenia USA Treasurer Michael Impastato, Flint Group President (non-voting member) Marla Donahue, Flexible Packaging Association Executive Committee Members At Large Hans Deamer, Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp.; Jim Mize, Sealed Air Corp.; Ken Swanson, Berry Plastics Corp.; Rob Tiede, Sonoco Flexible Packaging AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Corporate Audience Development Director Rita M. Foumia Audience Development Manager Kourtney Bell Multimedia Specialist Katie Jabour Audience Audit Coordinator Carolyn M. Alexander For subscription information or service, please contact Customer Service at: Tel. (847) 763-9534 or Fax (847) 763-9538 or e-mail
[email protected] List Rental Postal contact: Kevin Collopy at 800-223-2194 x.684
[email protected] Email contact: Michael Costantino at 800-223-2194 x.748
[email protected] BNP MEDIA CORPORATE OFFICERS Publishing: John R. Schrei Corporate Strategy: Rita M. Foumia Marketing: Ariane Claire Production: Vincent M. Miconi Finance: Lisa L. Paulus Creative: Michael T. Powell Directories: Nikki Smith Human Resources: Marlene J. Witthoft Clear Seas Research: Beth A. Surowiec FOR VOLUME REPRINTS: Reprints Sales Representative Jill DeVries Phone: (248) 244-1726 • Fax: (248) 244-3934 E-mail:
[email protected] CONTACT FLEXIBLE PACKAGING Phone: (847) 405-4000 • Fax: (847) 405-4100 Mail: 155 Pfingsten Road, Suite 205, Deerfield, IL 60015 Internet: www.flexpackmag.com Circulation: (248) 244-6421
BNP MEDIA HELPS PEOPLE SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITH SUPERIOR INFORMATION. VOLUME 13, NUMBER 6
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AUGUST 2011
F L E X I B L E PACK AG I N G A S S OCIATI ON | UPDATE
FPA RELEASES 2011 STATE OF THE FLEXIBLE PACKAGING INDUSTRY REPORT he 2011 State of the Flexible Packaging Industry Report, produced by the Flexible Packaging Association, provides an overview of performance and profitability of the U.S. flexible packaging industry. Several aspects of the industry are examined within the Report including sales and utilization levels, profit trends, capital spending, M&A activity, U.S. imports and exports, and industry growth. Valued at $25.5 billion in annual sales, the flexible packaging industry represents approximately 19 percent of the $134 billion U.S. packaging industry, and is the second largest packaging segment behind corrugated paper. Flexible packaging’s versatility, efficiency and costeffectiveness have contributed to its continued growth. Over the past 10 years, the flexible packaging industry has grown at a compound annual rate of 2.6 percent. This steady growth and expansion has been aided by innovations in technology, consumer convenience, sustainability, and design.
T
As a definitive source of data and information on the U.S. flexible packaging industry, the 2011 SOI Report is utilized by industry converters, suppliers, investors, and analysts. Data available in the Report is gathered through several industry sources including the FPA members State of the Flexible Packaging Industry Survey and the FPA nonmember Industry Wide Converter Survey. Additionally, data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2009 Annual Survey of Manufacturers, the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and investment banking reports, are included in the Report. The 2011 FPA State of the Flexible Packaging Industry Report is a benefit of membership and is available in the Members Only section of the FPA Web site, www. flexpack.org. The Report is also available to FPA nonmembers for $3,500. For more information, contact Bob Zaborowski, Director, Business & Economic Research at (410) 694-0800. FP
FLEXIBLE PACKAGING REVENUE, 2000-2010
$30 $26.5
Compound Growth Rate 2.6%/yr
$ Billions
$25 $20
$26.9 $25.5
$24.9
$23.7
$23.7 $19.7
$19.5
$20.0
2000
2001
2002
$21.1
$21.4
2003
2004
$15 $10 $5 2005
2006
2007
2008
2009*
2010*
$0 Source: Census Bureau & Flexible Packaging Association
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•FPA Estimate
AUGUST
2011
2011 FPA FALL EXECUTIVE CONFERENCE The Flexible Packaging Association will hold its 2011 Fall Executive Conference on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at The Ritz Carlton in Chicago, IL. This one-day conference will provide insight into the flexible packaging industry's current trends and issues, and great networking opportunities for senior management. Registration is now available and open to FPA members and non-members. The hotel reservation deadline is Friday, September 2, 2011. During the Conference, attendees will preview FPA research results on: • Growth Opportunities for Flexible Packaging, which will identify top trends, opportunities and barriers to flexible packaging growth and conversion from other packaging formats to flexible packaging. • Resource Recovery from Flexible Packaging Waste, which will examine viable end-of-life alternatives to landfill for flexible packaging waste and demonstrate the efficacy of resource recovery technologies including microwave pyrolysis, gasification, thermal pyrolysis, and engineered solid fuel. Conference attendees will also hear from: • Richard Weil, Director of Investment Banking at Mesirow Financial, who will discuss the Packaging Industry: M&A Perspectives.
• Nick Vafiadis, Business Director of Polyolefins & PVC at CMAI, who will provide an Update on Flexible Packaging Materials. • Marvin Zonis, a global political-economic expert and consultant who will provide his insight on the shifting social, political and economic environments, and their implications for business and public policy. • L. Jon Wertheim, a senior writer for Sports Illustrated and co-author of Scorecasting: The Hidden Influences Behind How Sports Are Played and Games are Won, who will offer innovative ideas that focus on a fusion of sports statistics and business trends to provide pioneering lessons for the business world. FPA gives special thanks to FPA members Comexi Group Industries, S.A.U., DuPont Company, Ecologic, LLC, Flint Group, Harper Corporation of America, Hosokawa Alpine American, NOVA Chemicals, Incorporated, and Sun Chemical Corporation for their generous sponsorship of the 2011 Fall Executive Conference Networking Events. For more information about the 2011 FPA Fall Executive Conference contact the association at (410) 694-0800 or visit www.flexpack.org. FP
FPA’S 2012 ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH & SAFETY SUMMIT Annual Summit explores regulatory, safety and environmental issues impacting the flexible packaging industry
s Resourc Les e
Value. SM
2011
Fl e
ore
AUGUST
s
The Summit agenda will include presentations from government officials, and industry experts and peers, which are aimed at providing real take-home value for attendees. The Summit is open to both FPA members and non-members. The Summit agenda and registration materials will be available in the coming weeks. g For more information about the 2012 n i Pa ck a g FPA Environmental, Health and Safety Summit, contact FPA at (410) 694-0800 or
[email protected]. FP
oo ess F tprint .L
.M
Be sure to mark your calendar for the upcoming 2012 FPA Environmental, Health and Safety Summit, February 8-10, 2012 at The TradeWinds Resort in St. Petersburg Beach, Florida. Environmental and safety professionals and managers at the corporate and plant levels are encouraged to attend the Summit, which will provide regulatory updates and guidance on complying with industry-specific environmental and safety regulations.
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F L E X I B L E PACK AG I N G A S S OCIATI ON | UPDATE
2012 FPA FLEXIBLE PACKAGING ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Annual Competition Honors Best of the Best in Packaging Excellence, Printing, Technical, Environmental & Sustainability Achievements If your company has developed an innovative flexible packaging solution, which is currently available in the market, FPA encourages you to submit the package into the 2012 FPA Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition. The entry deadline is Monday, November 21, 2011. The FPA Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition honors flexible packaging products that continue to expand packaging options for a wide variety of retail, industrial, and institutional products. The flexible packaging entries received for this annual competition underscore outstanding industry advancements in technology, materials, design, printing, and sustainability. The official Call for Entries is available on www.flexpack. org and provides an overview of the competition, rules, and entry instructions. Winning entries of the 2012 competition will be announced during the 2012 FPA Annual Meeting, February 22-24, 2012 at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, AZ.
ConforMIS Drill and Pin Kit Wallet - Highest Achievement Award Winner (Institutional), Gold Award (Packaging Excellence), Silver Award (Environmental & Sustainability Achievement)
The competition is open to flexible packaging converters. Additionally, flexible packaging suppliers that have contributed to a package and have received approval from the converter may enter jointly with, or on behalf of, the converter. Entries will be judged by a panel of industry experts who will select winning packages to receive Gold and Silver awards in four categories including Packaging Excellence, Technical Innovation, Sustainability & Environmental Achievement, and Shelf Impact & Printing Achievement. The Highest Achievement Award will be presented to a Gold award winning package ranked by the judges as having contributed most to the advancement of the industry. Winning competition entries are recognized and featured in various domestic and international trade publications. In addition, FPA publishes the Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards & Innovation Showcase, which includes photos and descriptions about all the entries and winning packages, and provides details about package manufacturers, endusers/customers, designers, and key suppliers. For more information about the 2012 FPA Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards, contact FPA at (410) 694-0800 or visit www.flexpack.org. FP Fresh N Tasty Produce Pouch – Highest Achievement Award Winner (Retail), Gold Award (Packaging Excellence, Technical Innovation).
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2011
Flexible Packaging Association. Helping You Succeed. Mark your calendar for these upcoming FPA events! October 5, 2011 2011 FPA Fall Executive Conference
The Ritz-Carlton - Chicago, IL
The Flexible Packaging Association’s 2011 Fall Executive Conference will be held on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago. This one-day conference will provide insight into current trends and issues impacting the flexible packaging industry, and great networking opportunities for senior management.
November 21, 2011 (Entry Deadline) 2012 FPA Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition
FPA Headquarters - Linthicum, MD The Flexible Packaging Association’s Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Program honors the best of the best in packaging excellence, printing, technical, and environmental achievements. FPA urges flexible packaging companies to enter their innovative packages into the 2012 competition. Entry deadline is November 21, 2011.
February 8-10, 2012 2012 FPA Environmental, Health & Safety Summit
TradeWinds Resort - St. Petersburg Beach, FL The 2012 EHS Summit will be held February 8-10, 2012 and will explore regulatory issues impacting the flexible packaging industry. Open to both FPA members and non-members, these events offer attendees an excellent opportunity to network with U.S. EPA and OSHA officials, industry experts, and peers.
February 22-24, 2012 2012 FPA Annual Meeting
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess - Scottsdale, AZ The Flexible Packaging Association’s 2012 Annual Meeting will be held February 22-24, 2012 at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, AZ. The meeting will include general sessions that focus on industry-specific issues, the presentation of the 2012 Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards, the 2012 Annual Meeting Networking Luncheon, and the 2012 Annual Meeting Golf Tournament.
971 Corporate Boulevard • Suite 403 • Linthicum, MD 21090 • 410.694.0800 [phone] • 410.694.0900 [fax] • www.flexpack.org
Converter News the END RESULT
BERRY PLASTICS ACQUIRES REXAM SBC erry Plastics Corporation, an Apollo Management, L.P. and Graham Partners portfolio company, recently announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Rexam specialty and beverage closures business (Rexam SBC). Berry will pay approximately $360 million for Rexam SBC and the transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2011, subject to customary closing conditions. Rexam SBC is a manufacturer of injection and compression molded plastic specialty and beverage closures, jars, and other plastic packaging products with eight manufacturing facilities globally. Rexam SBC had 2010 annual net sales of approximately $500 million and has 1,500 employees. Dr. Jonathan Rich, chairman and CEO of Berry Plastics Corporation states, “The acquisition of Rexam SBC demonstrates Berry's continued commitment to growing our business through the addition of packaging companies with excellent customers and great products.” FP
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Berry Plastics Corporation (812) 424-2904; www.berryplastics.com
Rexam SBC (773) 399-3000; www.rexam.com
EXOPACK WELCOMES NEW VP OF OPERATIONAL DEVELOPMENT xopack recently announced that Michael Craig is now the vice president of operational development. In this role, Craig will be responsible for optimizing operational efficiencies and continuous quality improvement across the company’s business units. FP
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Exopack LLC (864) 596-7140; www.exopack.com
MARIANI RECEIVES INC PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD ecently, Mariani received the Innovative Product Award from the International Nut and Dried Fruit Conference for its new TouchLock Easy Seal packaging. Launched nationwide this year by Mariani, TouchLock is a micro-hook closure system that redefines the term resealable. While many seals are based on a zipper closure that doesn’t always line up easily, TouchLock requires just a simple touch at the corners of the seal and a press to close to ensure a perfect seal every time, thus enhancing the consumer’s overall experience.
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Mariani Packaging Company (707) 452-2800; www.marianifruit.com
AMPAC ACQUIRES SWISS FLEXIBLE PACKAGING FIRM mpac Holdings LLC, a global strategic leader in the food, pet food, retail, security and medical packaging markets, announces the acquisition of flexible packaging firm Elag Verpackungen AG, based in Kirchberg, Switzerland. Ampac president of global pouching division Marc Rapp states, “With the acquisition of Elag, we are following the request of our key global customers to offer additional high quality operations and a solid backup position to handle their retort business. The innovative potential in Elag is the ideal completion of our service portfolio in Europe.” Both senior leadership teams from Ampac and Elag will continue in their present roles. FP
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Ampac Holdings LLC (800) 543-7030; www.ampaconline.com
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Elag Verpackungen AG (636) 326-1211; www.elag.ch
AUGUST
2011
Taking Barrier Films to the Generation
Alpine's X-Die Barrier Film Line
David A. Frecka, CEO
“When we decided to step up to barrier films, our choice was obvious: The Alpine X-Die line”
Superior Film Technology - Most Flexibility - Best Service and Support
Cover Feature: Best Practices
UPGRADING UP GRADING
YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGY A strong business strategy and the implementation of best practices create a sense of what is expected in business. By Erin J. Wolford, Editor-in-Chief very successful company has them: A set of expectations to ensure the company is fulfilling its business strategy. Setting goals for the company to meet or exceed its expectations; creating a baseline for business development; setting up guidelines to follow for everyday production. These are considered best practices. Best practices are widely-accepted processes or methods that help fulfill duties or tasks. These sets of rules are often used where no formal method is present. A desired result can come to fruition when best practices are put into place and followed, which can help reduce problems and complications. Whether industry-specific or companywide, when accurately followed, best practices can be one of the greatest improvements a company can make. One company’s best practices have propelled it into continued success. Charter Films engineers, extrudes and manufactures plastic films. Charter Films’ vice president of sales and marketing, Brian Beuning, offered some of his company’s best practices and business strategies, which have helped in the continual success of the company.
E
training is key. “Our primary vehicle for accomplishing this is an interactive, computer-based training program called Charter University. ‘Charter U’ is designed to provide our employees with the tools they need, so our customers will be afforded the highest level of quality and service.” Additionally, Charter Films sees strength in employee involvement. “We also pride ourselves in a practice we call the Charter Way. This empowers our employees to be part of the decisionmaking process to achieve customer satisfaction and product innovation.”
Key Business Strategies Positively affecting the bottom line down the road could start today, with
Best Placed Practices So what kinds of best practices has Charter Films implemented? According to Beuning, education and
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a stronger business strategy. Charter Films recognized this, and has followed its own business strategy. “Internally, we have focused on continual capital investment to maintain and upgrade our extrusion equipment. This strategy is critical to maintaining what we believe to be a competitive advantage for Charter Films – our quality and operational efficiency. We also remain firmly committed to our internal training programs to assure that we give our extrusion technicians the support they need to continue to improve their skills,” says Beuning. Charter Films also recognizes that the industry needs to see its offerings as well. Beuning explains, “In the marketplace, we have expanded and added to our product Charte Films, a blown film extruder, shown Charter here, u understands that a successful company has a set of best practices behind it.
Anything Less Is a Disaster Settling for less is risky business. Offering more is what Charter Films is all about. We’re the specialists in blown film extrusion, engineering and manufacturing of high-performance solutions that heighten your productivity and enhance package quality. We offer competitively priced films to meet your precise specifications. That’s a formula for success. Not a recipe for disaster.
1-877-411-3456 +1 715-395-8258 www.charterfilms.com/quality cfiinfo@charterfilms.com
© 2011 Charter Films. All rights reserved.
Cover Feature: Best Practices offerings to make sure we have the films our customers need. A key recent addition to our product offering is EVOH barrier films. This asset and product line extension makes Charter a truly full-service provider in terms of products. We can now make monolayer films, up to 7-layers, and have many co-ex lines to support future innovation.”
Setting Itself Apart from Competition Charter Films believes it is different in its business offerings for the industry. Beuning explains that its uniqueness lies in its solutions. “Today customers are looking for more than just products to purchase; they’re also looking for solutions that not only help them operate more efficiently, but most importantly help them to fulfill their customer’s needs. “Charter Films has the technical expertise, state-of-the-art extrusion assets and customer-focused team to do just that. What makes Charter Films unique is our ability to provide these solutions using a personalized approach, geared towards each customer’s specific needs. We believe that our steady growth over the past 13
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
Brian Beuning VP of Sales & Marketing, Charter Films
years is a testament to our customer focus and their satisfaction,” says Beuning.
Trending toward Success Charter Films also recognizes that successful companies should not only follow trends, but also fulfill them. Beuning expands on this concept: “A major trend in film extrusion is really a continuation of a trend that has been evolving for quite some time in our industry. Simply put, today more then ever before, film needs to be flat and gauge needs to be spot on. “We have seen many of our converting customers continue to upgrade their assets
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in order to operate more efficiently and grow their business. For example, we have seen a significant number of new installs of high speed printing presses, many of which are capable of running at speeds up to 1400 feet-per-minute with phenomenally quick job changeover. These newer, faster, better assets need good film if they are to run optimally. In addition these assets can run wider, thinner films and can handle larger outside diameter (OD) rolls,” says Beuning. “Making high-quality, consistent film – often at wider widths and thinner gauge and then winding them on large OD rolls, so converters can run these newer assets at high outputs – is a challenge for a film producer. They need to have the right equipment, well-trained employees, and a commitment to quality in order to succeed,” according to Beuning. Understanding business from inside the company, to the industry, to your customers and responding to each of these groups’ needs will make your company the most successful it has been. Recognize that cross-section, and you’ll go far. FP Charter Films, Inc. (715) 395-8258; www.charterfilms.com
AUGUST
2011
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER if Your Company Needs to Implement Better Best Practices: If you are not 100 percent sure how to determine your own company’s best practices, here are a few questions to seriously consider. Being completely honest with the answers could create a better outcome down the road.
__ What kinds of recurring problems has your company experienced, and how were those problems corrected? The answer to this question is one key best practice that could be tightened up to avoid these problems. In turn, if the problems are not being corrected, why not? Are you missing a key piece of equipment, key management, etc.? Start filling those voids to avoid future recurring problems.
__ In which areas can your company improve? What specifically would you like to see improved upon? What sorts of realistic improvements can make it better?
__What’s missing from your company? Again, recognizing the parts of your business that need e improvement will help determine where a set of guidelines might be needed.
__ What kinds of realistic success w would you like to see from your company within the next year? Understanding g where you’d like your company tto be re it currently is could help clarify the set of o instead of where es that might need to be implemented. best practices If afterr going through these questions, you are sure of the answers, don’t hesitate to ask your still unsure upperr management, and even other enthusiastic ployees, to offer their honest input. Their responses employees, ould shed a whole new positive light could on the company.
The answer to these questions will point to weaknesses. Recognizing your company’s weak points and addressing those head-on will create a better environment, and eventually, a better outcome.
World-class supplier of engineered flexible packaging
Industry leader in Sustainable Packaging A net-zero waste operation 350,000 sq. ft. campus with leading edge technology and state-of-theart equipment
Nanotechnology for High Barrier Film
230 Industrial Drive Lexington, Ohio 44904 800-884-8150 www.nextgenfilms.com
AUGUST
2011
Call us for a customized film to fit any application. FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
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Printing: Offset
THE ROLE OF OFFSET IN FLEXIBLE PACKAGING By Tim Payne, Contributing writer aturally, it’s important to consider industry trends concerning the print quality necessary to meet customer demand and market dynamics. It is becoming increasingly difficult for printers to tout high-end print capability if offering only limited repertoire in terms of print genre. Flexo, gravure, offset; where are the lines of competition drawn, who draws them and why? It could be as one would suspect, customer-driven, or possibly supplier-driven in efforts to maintain the status quo while avoiding the risks associated with capital expenditure in a depressed economy; survival versus growth strategy. Higher-end printing concepts are nothing new; they have always been in perpetual motion. High-end print quality could be defined in terms of explosive graphics, high line screens/resolution, extreme registration tolerance, clean highlights, smooth gradations, proof matching ability, myriad coating/substrate options, and more.
Gravure enjoys high-end print capability, no question, especially concerning long print runs. However, many buyers are adopting “just in time” lean inventory practices, so pricing structures could ostensibly become subject to additional makereadies and wash-ups between print runs, representing additional cost that must be either absorbed or passed along to customers. Where does the gravure
Flexo v Gravure v Offset/Litho
genre find itself in the short to medium volume theatre? Granted, these formats may not be gravure's bailiwick, but at some point may need to be to remain competitive. Prohibitive cylinder cost, engraving lead-time constraints, and the water-based/solvent-based dilemma identical to that of flexo, gravure burdens potentially mount. Would gravure be considered a universal high-end print application despite its large volume specialization? Likely not, although gravure recognizes its role and presently acquires its target very well. Offset (or Litho), is a print genre that is lacking industry exposure, particularly electron beam (EB) sleeve applications, which lies in relative infancy primarily due to poor press manufacturer history,
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Although some modern flexo presses are capable of producing high print quality, they would be in the extreme minority as an industry whole. In my opinion, flexo print quality cannot match that of offset or gravure. Additionally, water-based applications possess the inherent obstacles of ink adhesion to wide arrays of film, lamination bond-strengths, limited press speeds, and warrant incessant attention to ink properties and anilox condition. Solvent-based applications connote environmental overtures, including hazardous waste, fire hazard, employee safety and massive energy consumption. UV possesses prohibitive ink costs, photoinitiator drawbacks, and does not lend itself to all CI press manufacturer offerings.
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a dearth of capable print suppliers and industry unawareness.
Offset’s Positives Offset’s extremely high line screens and its registration tolerance is phenomenal. Robust ink adhesion to films and favorable lamination bond strengths are noteworthy. Electron beam’s near complete curing characteristics, absence of VOC emissions, hazardous waste abatement and
Gateway Packaging's Drent Goebel VSOP 1250 Electron Beam Offset Printing Press
| www.flexpackmag.com
overall environmental stewardship must also be reckoned with. Given the small percentage of offset packaging in the marketplace, it is possible that print packaging professionals who admire higher-end pieces unconsciously attribute them to gravure, even though such items may have printed offset. Offset may be unrivaled concerning speed to market. Urgent order files electronically transmitted to an ftp site and on-press in high-speed production within an hour or two finds offset at the head of the class. No print genre offers the color manipulation ability of an offset press. When a flexo or gravure press fingerprint, press optimization, or process is less than perfect, it can be a problem
AUGUST
2011
Printing: Offset
unless willing to make color concessions, often substantial concessions. Formulate ink stronger to aid one area of the sheet and in turn harm it in another, either genre's color manipulation technique alters color entirely across the substrate, while offset can execute both isolated
and intricate color maneuvers, which enables offset to match proofs with superiority. Returning to the drawing-board known as prepress is not an intelligent approach to matching proofs, nor is it profitable. Pulling jobs, jeopardizing deadlines, re-outputting cylinders/plates,
White
Gateway Packaging's Drent Goebel VSOP 850 ELectron Beam Offset Printing Press
Clear & CMYK PRINT VARNISH EMBOSS CREASE CONTOUR CUT All with one device.
Roland VersaUV from Anderson & Vreeland
As the world’s first UV inkjet printer/cutters, Roland’s DPI award-winning VersaUV LEC has revolutionized the packaging, prototype and short-run label industries. For the first time, professionals can print CMYK plus White and Clear inks for varnishing and embossing effects on virtually any substrate and then crease, contour cut or perf-cut their designs, all on one device through one seamless workflow.
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
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and repeating makereadies and washups until firm is clearly disastrous, which is not the case with litho. Even on the occasion that an offset plate may require tweaking, expedience of file rework and plate output is unparalleled compared to flexo or gravure and at a fraction of the cost. Although offset may not currently dominate the industry regarding extended color gamut, it may take its rightful seat at the head of the table concerning ability. The fact that the industry is unaware of or unsaturated by offset is irrelevant. Extended color gamut adds colors and therefore adds complexity, especially when incorporated into photographic images. Designer targets are now compounded by the addition of up to three process colors; that’s a lot of colors, file separations and artwork with which to contend to match proofs. The reduction of costly spot-colors and efficiency of makeready associated with leaving a press outfitted with unchanging colors from job to job with wash-ups all but eliminated represents an attractive feature of extended color gamut and aligns well with customer cost saving strategies. Frequency modulation (FM) screening is another offset hallmark. In short, it eliminates troublesome screen angles associated with conventional screening, especially those of process images and more so with that of extended color gamuts. Minute registration imperfections do not subject artwork to color-swings encountered with conventional screen angles, nor is the dreaded moire pattern encountered. FM, stochastic, staccato,
AUGUST
2011
hybrid screening; call it what you will, it can be a very difficult undertaking for flexo and gravure, while litho may take the approach in stride. SKU proliferation must somehow be intelligently managed; new items, revised items, brand extensions, promotional items and their many graphic changes can be daunting. Clearly, scrapping expensive gravure cylinders or flexo plates is not the tidiest of solutions and would certainly carry with it an up-charge. Not only does litho handily print numerous SKUs, but frequently combines them within a given print-run on the same set of plates, providing the repeat length is identical and the colors compatible. With offset, customers may choose to mix and match SKUs as they see fit, both initially and on subsequent orders based on consumer demand. Since offset plates are disposable, somewhat inexpensive and fully recyclable, plate-cost is a relative non-factor. Offset also achieves both screen/solid artwork of the same color on the same file/plate, something that flexo or gravure typically separate and add print stations to accomplish.
More often than not, offset may find itself alone in the development of customerdriven innovations and the R&D required achieving them. Some might even say that litho remains reserved for either the bold or the visionary at this juncture of its campaign.
Offset may indeed offer the most complete high-end print platform for flexible packaging and multi-wall bag markets today. Offset might also be best characterized as a clean, modern and intelligent approach to print packaging. Of course, only customers ultimately will decide. FP
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Offset is Not Without its Drawbacks Offset is a newer endeavor (in these markets) and human nature dictates that design, marketing, brand and purchasing executives do not readily embrace change. Litho indoctrination, unfamiliar terminology, design theory and workarounds require some investment of time and education to understand. Offset possesses other complex obstacles, fortunately not so much for customers as for print providers, as litho does not currently benefit from substantial industry accomplishment. About the Author Tim Payne is director of printing and technical services for Gateway Packaging Company.
With EFI Radius, packaging companies achieve outstanding results – regularly outperforming their peers running other solutions. The EFI™ Radius™ ERP solution offers packaging companies the comprehensive capabilities of a world class ERP system, while fitting the unique business processes of packaging operations producing labels, flexible packaging, folding cartons and extruded materials. The solution’s comprehensive capabilities are able to address the needs of packaging companies with complex operating environments such as multi-site, multi-currency, multi-language and multi-product production processes.
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Gateway Packaging Company (618) 451-0010; www.gatewaypackaging.com AUGUST
2011
FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
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Technology: Inspection & Detection
ACCURATE MEASUREMENT FOR BETTER CONTROL Accurate length and speed measurements are critical for converters of flexible packaging to improve process automation and control. By Jay Luis, Contributing writer ccurate length and speed measurements are critical for converters of flexible packaging to improve process automation and control. Every converter of flexible packaging is faced with the challenge of producing high-quality products that meet exact customer specifications. Ultimately, converters need to ship the correct amount of product to customers and avoid material over-supply or under-supply situations to remain profitable. But it’s not that easy when the manufacturer is using a mechanical,
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contact-type measurement method to control the length and speed of product on the production line. The good news is that there is a non-contact, laser-based measurement technology available that enables converters to achieve the highest level of measurement accuracy. This noncontact technology is being used in a variety of flexible packaging applications to precisely measure product length and speed, control cutting operations and regulate differential speed in lamination processes, to name a few. And, converters are realizing significant benefits in product quality, productivity, and bottom-line savings.
Contact Methods Pose Measurement Challenges
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FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
Many manufacturers still use mechanical methods, such as contact wheel encoders or pulses off the drive, to measure length and speed to ensure they are processing the correct amount of product or to trigger a specific production action. But these contact methods are subject to slippage and calibration changes caused by variations in the roll or wheel diameter due to dirt build-up and wear. For example, mechanical contact encoders can cause length and speed measurement inaccuracies by as much as 2 percent or more depending on the application. A 2 percent inaccuracy on a 20,000 foot roll means 400 feet of uncertainty. This translates into a significant amount of money in unnecessary expense.
Non-contact encoders accurately measure the length and speed of products with laser precision.
Non-contact encoders use a unique, laser-based measurement technique without contacting the product. This measurement system is permanently calibrated and has no moving parts to wear out. It works by projecting a unique pattern on the product’s surface. As the product moves, light is scattered back to the encoder. This information is translated into product speed and pulses are produced to determine the product length – independent of shape, surface or color. The pulse output (pulses/unit)
AUGUST
2011
is then sent to a control system, such as a PLC, to trigger actions such as length counting, product positioning, cutting control, printing and other tasks. Length and speed measurements are captured with better than +/-0.05 percent accuracy, +/-0.02 percent repeatability.
Accuracies and Inaccuracies Many manufacturers depend on the accuracy of their drive speeds or contact encoders to accurately apply coatings to materials or to control the speed of two or more materials coming together during the lamination process. But materials typically exhibit a certain amount of slippage on the drive roller based on texture, product composition or tension. A contact encoder attached to the drive roller or riding on the product has the same problem, causing measurement and
calibration issues. Placing a non-contact laser encoder at each critical measurement point along the line enables the manufacturer to accurately control the tension and speed of the lamination line. Measurement inaccuracies caused by contact encoder slippage or mechanical issues can throw off cutting systems, causing synchronization issues between the fed material and the cutter. Implementing a non-contact laser encoder provides a non-contact, slip-free method to measure the product length and speed with near 0.05 percent accuracy. This non-contact method improves cut-to-length control, reduces waste and enables the production of higher quality products. The non-contact laser encoder is steadily becoming the standard measurement technology for many common manufacturing applications involving
About the Author Jay Luis is the worldwide marketing manager for Beta LaserMike, a leading global provider of precision measurement and control solutions for a wide range of non-contact measurement applications.
100% Print Inspection NYSCAN Ŷ Complete Workflow Solution Provider + + +
PDF/Image Comparison Pre-press Print Control and Roll Map on Press Fault Placement Post - Press
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Non-contact laser technology measures product length and speed with +/-0.05% accuracy.
flexible packaging, and is quickly replacing mechanical contact-type measurement techniques. The benefits of length and speed measurement accuracy offer converters a real competitive advantage. Those companies that adopt this highprecision measurement technology will quickly realize dividends in improved product quality and increased productivity with substantial cost savings. FP Beta LaserMike (800) 886-9935; www.laserspeedgauge.com
Web Surface Inspection Systems - ELSIS Ŷ Uninterrupted monitoring, inspection and recording of the quality of web surfaces Ŷ Turnkey-solution (mechanics, software, interfaces) Ŷ Automatic camera calibration Ŷ Defect marking
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New 3 - Chip CCD Color Camera
Web Tension Monitoring Systems - ELTENS Ŷ Continuous acquisition and control of web tension Ŷ Cantilevered measuring roller with integrated load cells Ŷ Low inertia carbon fiber roll available Ŷ Measuring amplifier with analog or digital output
AUGUST
2011
Web Guiding Systems - ELGUIDER Ŷ Center line guiding with digital wide band sensor Ŷ User friendly operator panel with graphical color touch screen Ŷ Low inertia carbon fiber rollers Ŷ Ethernet connection with IP protocol on board
Erhardt+Leimer Inc.
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350 Tucapau Road Duncan, SC 29334, USA Phone +1 864-486-3000
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Albert-Leimer-Platz 1 86391 Stadtbergen, Germany Phone +49 (0)821 2435-0
[email protected]
FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
| www.flexpackmag.com
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Q&A: Narrow Web
(Special Advertising Section)
THE LATEST ON NARROW WEB By Erin J. Wolford, Editor-in-Chief
What new features, machinery or technologies are being introduced to this sector of the industry?
adjustment points on new flexo presses have discrete adjustments with repeatable set points. The result is that a flexo setup can now be fully documented and repeated. These achievements are allowing flexo to move from and art to a process.
Feltz: On the equipment side, new
Q:
Q:
narrow web press designs have significantly improved changeover times, ease of use and waste reduction. At the heart of these improvement is simplicity. New designs have eliminated countless steps and adjustments in the flexo process. Many of the areas with adjustments have been replaced by self positioning components. The variations created by these multiple adjustments are now a thing of the past. The result is more consistent quality and output from operator to operator, shift to shift. All of the adjustment points on older flexo machines were “blind” adjustments – knobs could be turned without any reference point to record the setting. The remaining The Drop-and-Lock print cylinder, exclusive to Mark Andy Performance Series presses, utilizes a synchronized pneumatic design with self-locating reference discs to lock the print cylinder into place with the touch of a button. Impression sets automatically – hands free – resulting in more consistent quality, operator-to-operator, shift-to-shift.
Where is the narrow web sector trending toward – what’s the most popular solution right now?
Feltz: In flexible packaging, as with other
markets, run lengths continue to get shorter. This is being driven by several forces – growth in private branding, regionalized promotions, product expansion (multiple flavors and varieties), and lean initiatives (reduction of inventories). All of these forces are creating short run demand. Jobs that traditionally made sense on larger, wide web CI flexo presses are no longer viable. Many converters with these presses are forced to produce this work at low or negative margins just to maintain the higher run business for these customers. This shorter run demand has opened up opportunity for narrow web in this market space. Narrow web presses are more ergonomic, can be set up more quickly, with less setup waste.
Q:
What kinds of common problems have this segment solved in recent years?
Feltz: Traditionally, there were few
in-line narrow web presses that could effectively produce flexible packaging and filmic products. Over the past few years, in-line label presses have increased their capabilities, and can now effectively run flexible packaging applications. Advancements through servo tension control and temperature controlled idler/impression rolls have provided the
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Jeff Feltz Director of product management Mark Andy, Inc. 11 years with Mark Andy, 5 years in this position
stability needed to hold tight registration and good print quality. Another challenge in the market is finding and retaining good flexo press operators. With the older equipment in the market, the press operator determines the quality of product, how much is produced, and with how much waste. The simplicity associated with newer flexo equipment is changing the game. Newer flexo presses can be more easily and consistently set up, despite the skill level of the operator. This is allowing converters to not only realize gains in productivity, but also with quality and margins as well.
Q:
What’s missing from this sector? What would you like to see improved upon? Feltz: A majority of flexible packaging
requires offline lamination in order to create the final product. There are some viable in-line lamination processes available, but many fall short of the requirements for bond strength. Single pass production has significant benefits on lead-time and inventory/cash flow performance. The development of lamination techniques that are easily implemented into an in-line solution would provide benefits for the converter – especially for those demands with tight delivery requirements. but with quality and margins as well. FP Mark Andy Inc. (636) 532-4433; www.markandy.com
AUGUST
2011
Industry Insights
MULTI-COLOR PRESSES TAKE PACKAGING TO NEW ATTENTION-GETTING LEVELS
By Brett Buratti & Joe Kostecki, Contributing columnists ackaging in a variety of different categories can benefit from the wide range of capabilities offered on today’s 5-10 color flexographic presses. Customers are looking for dynamic capabilities that they can incorporate into their packaging designs to separate themselves from the competition and make their products stand out among the crowd. Flexographic printing today not only offers great clarity and definition, but also additional capabilities that can benefit the industry. The ability to laminate and/ or apply special coatings to meet certain properties required by the customer can be performed on a single production line.
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Standing Out from the Rest Lightweight films may be selected for their strength and other packaging-specific features. Today’s consumers have many choices when they go to their local supermarket or discount store. The shelves are crowded with “me too” products that offer many of the same benefits. In order to make those products stand out from the rest, the right combination of film choice
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and printing technique can improve product sales. New techniques available to flexographic printers, such as HD flexo (with enhanced digital plates) can dramatically improve print quality for the right design. In addition the use of extended gamut color management (which minimizes the need for spot colors, results in more vibrant images and reduces costs) can help the printer reduce set-up times, increase efficiencies and help reduce overall costs to the customer. Maximizing color is a priority and having multiple print decks at the printer’s disposal allows for a second or possibly third design to be in queue while another is running. Multiple printing stations also allow the customer to design colorful brand layouts using standard colors, as well as special PMS matches. Matte and gloss finishes through the use of varnishes, as well as eye catching neons and metallics are commonly used. Results like these are achieved today by printers using water based inks. Not only can they produce eye catching results that rival solvent based inks, but they help reduce the carbon footprint and offer the “green” advantage customers are looking for. In addition, inks are mixed at press side and pails of ingredients are re-used all in an effort to be more earth-friendly. Each print deck at the disposal of the printer can be utilized for various inks or coatings. Four of the ten decks may be used solely for process work, while decks five through ten may be used for fine line work, special spot PMS colors or various coatings that could be used to add functional value to the product, as well as protect the ink. In addition, to
| www.flexpackmag.com
prevent potential trap issues (and print consecutive colors at high speeds with one pass through the press), betweendeck dryers are utilized.
Defining the Expectations Selection of a packaging film with mil thicknesses ranging from fractional gauge .08 mil polyethylenes to a 4 mil bi-axially oriented polypropylene start with working with the customer to determine the end result, or expectations they have for their product. The conversation should include variables relative to ink requirements that would allow for repeat handling, ease of opening, moisture resistance and strength of sealing. Since the finish, clarity and other properties of film vary depending on the type of process used (blown or cast) to make the film, it is important to determine the “look” the customer needs for their product. It’s also important to learn more about the customer's converting equipment, including the layout, function, speed, temperature and dwell time settings they see as necessary for sealing the package. Flexographic printing continues to evolve and improve. Today’s printer has an opportunity to deliver better quality and faster turnaround times than ever before. With every project and every customer, flexographic printers are committed to delivering innovative solutions through capabilities that differentiate. FP
About the Columnist: Brett Buratti and Joe Kostecki are in marketing and technical areas at Larsen Converting. Larsen Converting (855) 309-2248; www.LittleRapids.com
AUGUST 2011
Packaging. Processing. Powerful.
Package design and branding, all wrapped up. At PACK EXPO Las Vegas you’ll find everything you need to put your idea into consumers’ hands. Don’t miss the expanded Brand Zone, featuring innovative containers, materials and package designs: s The latest advances in glass, plastic, metal and paperboard packaging, decorating, printing and re-sealable technologies. s The Showcase of Packaging Innovations®, sponsored by The Dow Chemical Company. s PACK EXPO Selects™ awards for best consumer packaging. Don’t miss the largest packaging and processing show in North America. Register Today! www.packexpo.com/brandzone
PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2011
September 26-28, 2011 Las Vegas Convention Center Las Vegas, Nevada USA
P R O D U C E D B Y:
CO-LOCATED WITH: C
Supplier News
DUPONT PACKAGING GRAPHICS UNVEILS FIRST CYREL DIGICORR SYSTEM IN CHINA uPont Packaging Graphics recently introduced the first DuPont Cyrel DigiCorr System in China. The system was installed in the DuPont Customer Technology Center in Shanghai China to welcome its first group of visitors. A total of three groups, including 30 customers from converters and printers, visited the DuPont Customer Technology Center (CTC) to experience and view the demonstration of the newly installed DuPont Cyrel DigiCorr System that was conducted by DuPont Packaging Graphics. During the visit, customers were most interested in the key advantages of the economic workflow and new digital plate making technology, producing a unique hybrid-fat topped dot, to enhance
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ROLAND PRINTER/CUTTER SERIES NOW SUPPORTED BY GMG COLOR MANAGEMENT MG, a leading developer and supplier of high-end color management software solutions, has announced that the company's GMG ColorProof proofing software now fully supports the new Roland VersaUV LEC-540 printers for digital mockup creation and the VersaCAMM printers VS-300, VS-420, VS-540 and VS-640 with integrated contour cutting capability. Besides mockup creation, these printers allow for digital label production on various substrates suitable for solvent ink systems. FP
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Roland GMG Color +49 7071 93874-0; www.gmgcolor.com Roland (949) 727-2100; www.rolanddga.com
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print performance while reducing fluting on images, as well as increasing print contrast overall quality. The DuPont Cyrel DigiCorr System from DuPont Packaging Graphics produces uniquely shaped hybrid digital dots that print with minimal “fluting” or “washboarding,” the condition that results when the printing process reveals the corrugated flutes that provide the structural strength specific to corrugated shipping containers and store displays. In addition, the increased dot support with optimal shoulder angle results in a longer plate run length. FP DuPont Packaging Graphics (800) 345-9999; www.cyrel.com
NORDSON ACQUIRES TEMSE ordson Corporation recently announced it has completed the acquisition of Temse, a leading manufacturer of flat dies and coextrusion equipment for the multilayer flexible packaging industry. Terms were not disclosed. FP
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PRPFLEXO ANNOUNCES DIGITAL PRESS INSTALLATION
odern Manufacturing Services announced that it is moving to a new location. “Because of growth and loyalty of our customers, we are moving to a new, state-of-the-art facility, located at 640 East Main St., Palmyra, N.Y.,” comments James Russell, president of Modern Manufacturing Services. The official move will be completed by August 1. FP
RPflexo, a prepress services and flexographic printing plate provider based in Indianapolis, announced it has completed the installation of a new digital flatbed printing press. The press was installed due to a high demand by customers for prototypes and small run samples. Chris Green, general manager for the company, explains, “By being able to meet more of our customers needs on site, we have been able to maximize growth while also reducing their costs. This new press is also the perfect complement to our other offerings, from our patent-pending Digital ExSpect plates to our Print Champions program. By solving more of our customers’ problems we have been able to grow our business at a time when many of our competitors are shrinking or cutting back on services.” FP
Modern Manufacturing Services (585) 289-4261; www.modernmfg.com
PRPflexo (317) 782-3226; www.prpflexo.com
Nordson Corporation (770) 497-3700; www.nordson.com
NEW LOCATION ANNOUNCED FOR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER
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AUGUST
2011
Supplier News
ATLAS (UK) INCORPORATES US SUBSIDIARY COMPANY TO SERVE NORTH AND CENTRAL AMERICA tlas Converting Equipment Ltd. (UK) is pleased to confirm that it has recently completed the incorporation of its new USA based subsidiary, Atlas Converting North America, Inc., which has re-located to new premises in Charlotte, North Carolina. The team in Charlotte will be responsible to the newly appointed general manager, Thierry Fontolliet. Atlas
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Atlas Converting North America, Inc. (704) 587-2450; www.atlasconverting.com
HARPER CORPORATION OF AMERICA DONATES TO SCHOOL
FERROSTAAL MEXICO TO REPRESENT MARK ANDY INC.
lobal anilox roll supplier, Harper Corporation of America, has recently made a donation to a new flexo printing school in Monterrey, Mexico. The school, which has received three anilox rolls for its Mark Andy 830-7 press, was established by ACOBAN, the Mexican Association of Narrow Web Printers, and CONALEP, the College of National Education for Professional Technicians. Harper Corporation of America was approached to become involved with this new educational institution. The donation will improve the education available at the new school, as utilizing the leading technology will allow students to learn the skills they need to succeed in today’s market. Additionally, Harper Corporation has made this donation as an investment in the future of the industry, one that will help forge working relationships between Harper Corporation and the newest professionals in the flexographic field.
ark Andy Inc. is pleased to announce the signing of Ferrostaal Mexico, S.A. de C.V. to represent Mark Andy press and Rotoflex finishing equipment brands in Mexico. A global provider of industrial solutions, the Mexico office of Ferrostaal has been providing support to Central American converters for more than 50 years. Through the graphic arts division of the group, Ferrostaal will be providing sales and aftermarket expertise for Mark Andy and Rotoflex equipment in the region. “We are excited to enter into this relationship with Ferrostaal,” says John Cavey, sales manager for Latin America, Mark Andy Inc. “Their experience and knowledge of printing and converting makes them an ideal fit for our equipment. The Ferrostaal sales and support staff is top-notch and we are looking forward to a long lasting partnership.” FP
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Harper Corporation of America (704) 588-3371; www.harperimage.com
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Mark Andy Inc. (636) 532-4433; www.markandy.com Ferrostaal Mexico www.ferrostaal.com
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Converting North America, Inc. will provide support in both sales and service activities for all Atlas & Titan slitter rewinder customers throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Central America which continue to be very important markets for the company. FP
FLEXIBLEPACKAGING
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MAUSER NCG ACQUIRES MAJORITY SHARES OF ITALIAN IBC RECONDITIONER auser’s reconditioning subsidiary, National Container Group (NCG), acquired the majority shares of the Italian company, Maider IBC, a leading reconditioner of IBCs. For Mauser, Italy is an important key market in the packaging industry. For Mauser, this transaction completes its Europe-wide presence. Additionally, by moving close to the customers, this business development is in line with the company’s global sustainability initiative. “Being part of a global player who puts life cycle management at its core business offers attractive synergies and new potentials for Maider and for our customers,” summarizes Marca Carrara, the founder and managing director of Maider IBC. FP
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Mauser Group (732) 353-7100; www.marusergroup.com National Container Group (800) 774-6956; www.ncg-europe.com Maider IBC www.maideribc.com
AUGUST
2011
[email protected] s www.uteco.com
[email protected] s www.uteco.com
H I G H
S P E E D
F L E X O
P R I N T I N G
Leading edge innovation in flexographic printing
!(0 2!.'%
©
s 0RINT CONl GURATIONS OR COLOR s -AXIMUM PRINT SPEED FPM s 0RINTING WIDTHS v TO v MM s 0RINT REPEAT RANGE v TO v MM
s (IGH PRODUCTIVITY MACHINE s 2EDUCED JOB CHANGEOVER TIMES s )NNOVATIVE AND DYNAMIC MACHINE DESIGN s #ONSISTENT RETURN ON INVESTMENT
s P2P® : dynamic adjustment system controls printing pressures s PCT® : Press Control during Transition s PTC ® : Predictable Torque Control s SprintWash® : new automatic washup system s FlexoSmartPackHP® : Uteco engineering platform for improved performance and GENETIC INNOVATION profitability in flexographic printing s ShopWare ® Production Management, Control & Monitoring: easy machine-operator 54%#/ ./24( !-%2)#! interface to manage productivity 4/7. 0/).4 $2)6% s 35)4% ® +%..%3!7 '! s 0( s &!8 s LogiPack : automatic handling
[email protected]