XEIKON AND MOSS UNVEIL NEW PLASTIC DECORATION POSSIBILITIES AT K-2010

Xeikon, a division of Punch Graphix, and Italy-based MOSS, a leader in container decorating technologies are showcasing new applications for its jointly developed digital heat transfer Digital Decorating System at K-Messe. The exhibition is being staged in Dusseldorf from October 27 to November 3. Xeikon and MOSS can be found at Hall 04 / E21.

New application, new market

The Digital Decorating System enables the digital heat transfer process to be applied to seamless plastic tubes. The solution has been developed to meet increasing demand for wider versioning capabilities from global brand owners. Previously designed for printing on polypropylene, the Digital Decorating System’s ability to print on HDPE has opened up a new sector and a vast array of end uses. The innovative technology thus ensures fast and cost-efficient decoration of seamless plastic tubes, even in very short runs. It creates a sharper image for a more refined result, helping products stand out from the competition.”

Filip Weymans, Business Development Manager Labels & Packaging, Xeikon, explains:  “Brand owners are continually revising their graphics and product varieties according to customer demand. The Digital Decorating System enables them to do this faster, easier and more cost effectively than ever before. The system also allows them to be more responsive to versioning opportunities.”

A cost-effective alternative

The Digital Decorating System is ideal for label printers and injection molders. It is a high-quality, flexible and cost-effective alternative to direct screen or direct offset print for short-to-medium runs. The solution requires no set-up or plate costs. It also delivers much higher quality compared with direct print technology, in terms of both image quality (1200 dpi) and a more opaque white.

The 1200 dpi image quality is crucial for producing such impressive results, according to Franco Venturi, Moss Sales Manager: “Using our equipment we simply transfer these highly defined images onto flexible tubes. A coating of transparent varnish is then applied to increase the seal of the container and protect the decoration from scratches.”

The Digital Decorating System also offers a number of other benefits: “It’s perfectly suitable for smaller lots rather than longer runs associated with direct offset and silkscreen, as there is no need to prepare any plates,” adds Venturi. “The solution is also very affordable, which will make it attractive to print service providers of all sizes.”

Digital two-step

The first stage in the easy two-step process is Xeikon’s web press, which prints the exact number of transfers required for the decoration. Using the Xeikon press enables self-adhesive and heat-transfer labels to be printed.

In the next step, the roll of printed transfers is fed into the MOSS Digital Decorating System, which perfectly applies transfers to seamless tubes via the heat transfer process. The result is a high-quality, digitally printed and applied decoration that is scratch and water resistant.

“The Digital Decorating System has huge potential,” concludes Weymans. “Many of our customers print a broad range of products. The solution will help them to cost-effectively bolster their presence and take a greater market share.”
Moss manufactures and sells silk-screen, offset and hot-stamping machines for the decoration of articles and containers. In addition to its vast range of machines from simple 1-colour semi-automatic machines to fully automatic 8-colour lines with computerized controls, also produces a complete range of complementary equipment, not to mention the sale and installation of labeling machines on its own printing lines, and is in a unique position to be able to offer, not only first class after sales customer service, but also a truly complete service to its customers in terms of art-work, plate and screen manufacturing and technology and inks and varnishes.

A pioneer in digital printing, Xeikon designs, develops and delivers high-end digital colour printing systems for the industrial, document and commercial printing market segments. 

PHARMACEUTICAL LABELS SET CENTRE STAGE AT ABG OPEN HOUSE

Pharmaceutical labels set centre stage at the recent open house held by AB Graphic International Gmbh at Baesweiler, Germany. The company set the theme of the event with targeted emphasis on companies wanting to break into the pharmaceutical label market or optimise existing production quality. The event also demonstrated how medium run Braille labels and booklets can be produced efficiently and cost effectively.

The three day open house was a great success with over 150 visitors from all over Europe and was supported by our Distributors and personnel from our facilities in Germany, France, Spain, Holland and the UK," said Matthew Burton of AB Graphic International. "We demonstrated a variety of converting machines running various pharmaceutical jobs equipped with FleyeVision 100% print face inspection.These included our F150 entry level pharmaceutical and security print inspection machine and an F2010 multi lane inspection system with ink jet marking capability. Demonstrations were complemented by a stand-alone Braille printer, a booklet insertion machine, and an offline PDF comparison unit that sends printed material to the rewinder."

A long established manufacturer of label converting systems, AB Graphic International operates on a world-wide basis from its UK headquarters in Bridlington, East Yorkshire. The company is well placed to provide full sales and support globally through a network of established distributors and its facilities in the USA, France, Germany, Spain, and The Netherlands.

SUCCESSFUL LABEL SHOW LAUNCH IN SOUTH CHINA

The first South China Label Show has just closed its doors in Guangzhou on one of the most promising label events that the region has seen, leaving the industry looking forward to the next edition. The three day show boasted 90 exhibitors, 16 working presses and a large number of other machinery units.  Xeikon displayed their new 3500 Digital press for the first time in China at the event.  

A strong and comprehensive 12 session conference program complemented the show. The keynote presentation delivered by Roger Pellow, Managing Director of the Labels Group and Ilkka Ylipoti, VP Asia Pacific of UPM Raflatac looked in detail at the global trends and opportunities in the industry and the current position of the Chinese printing market. Of the 4,021 visitors the majority came from China followed by India, Malaysia and the general Asia Pacific region. There was also a large Japanese delegation led by Label Shimbun. Following the success of the show, the Labelexpo Global Series group has announced that they will be returning to Guangzhou in 2012. 

Roger Pellow, Managing Director of the Labels Group said: “I am very happy with the first edition of the show. The Label industry in China is constantly evolving and is one of the most exciting segments of the printing industry. We were pleased to provide a platform for visitors and exhibitors to meet, network and do business and look forward to seeing the industry again at Labelexpo Asia, November 29th to December 2nd 2011.”

PIN VOID MULTICOLOR- LABEL BY SCHREINER PROSECURE PROTECTS PINS

SchreinerProSecure

Schreiner ProSecure now offers another solution which reliably indicates tampering with PIN mailers: the PIN VoidMultiColor-Label. The multi-colored edge of the label makes it nearly impossible to detach it and to read the secret data without the recipient noticing the tampering attempt.

Criminal attempts to gain access to bank or credit card accounts are continually increasing. To effectively thwart undetected PIN spying on confidential mailers, Schreiner ProSecure has extended its portfolio of security features for labels by a multi-colored edge in a PIN protection label: the PIN Void MultiColor-Label that comes with a void effect which is activated when the label is peeled off the substrate for the first time. The void effect consists of text or a pattern which is preserved even if the label is accurately re-positioned on the mailer to seal the PIN again. The multi-colored design of the label’s edge featuring luminous colors and color gradients makes it nearly impossible to conceal the void message or image again by re-coloring it. As additional security elements, the label has integrated cuttings which destroy it during a peel-off attempt, and a scratch-off hologram. The PIN Void MultiColor-Label can be customized in terms of size and visual design. It is suitable for use on all standard stationery and thus assures easy and low-cost processing.

XEIKON'S INNOVATIVE DRY TONER TECHNOLOGY PROVIDES A UNIQUE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE TO LABEL CONVERTERS

Xeikon, a division of Punch Graphix, has been a pioneer in digital color printing and dry toner technology since its inception more than 20 years ago. With the launch of the Xeikon 3500 digital label production press and QA-I toner at IPEX 2010, the company has taken the suitability of its technology for food packaging applications to an entirely new level. 

In the United States, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets guidelines that must be followed with regard to food, whether packaged or not. Some of these guidelines are with respect to the actual materials being used to produce the labels, such as inks, toners and substrates. In addition, FDA also sets guidelines with respect to the printed materials in contact with food. The two types of food contact are direct and indirect. With direct food contact, the printed material comes into contact with the food. Indirect food contact refers to printed materials that are located on the outside packaging of the food. The Xeikon QA-I toner meets all the applicable FDA guidelines for indirect food contact under room temperature and less severe conditions as well as direct food contact for dry food substances containing no surface oil or fat under the same conditions.

 

Food safety is of the highest priority for label converters, as nearly 40 percent of the digitally produced labels are used for food packaging applications. By utilizing Xeikon's latest technology, label converters can gain a unique competitive edge in the markets they serve. Other printing technologies that involve UV-inks or solvent-based liquid inks do not always meet the FDA guidelines as they contain low molecular weight components. For example, most UV-inks are unsuitable for indirect food contact as non-cross linked molecules or photo initiators present in the cured ink could migrate through the packaging and contaminate the food being packaged.

 

According to Michael V. Ring, president of Xeikon North America, "Label converters involved in food packaging applications operate in a challenging and complex world. Governmental safety regulations have considerably increased the amount of information that needs to be included on a label. As a result, label converters have to judiciously utilize the available space to produce something that not only meets all the regulations, but is also eye-catching and compelling to capture a consumer's attention. At the same time, they have to keep an eye on their costs. Xeikon's QA-I toner supports all of these goals by offering superior image quality at 1200 dpi and unique advantages in food safety."

The QA-I toner is produced at the company's dedicated toner production plant in Heultje, Belgium. It has been developed specifically for Xeikon's family of digital label presses, which includes the Xeikon 3500, 3300, and 3000. The QA-I toner suitability for indirect food contact applies to all process colors (CMYK) as well as spot colors (white, clear, extra magenta, red, green, blue and orange). The toner's direct food contact suitability applies to all process colors (CMYK) and white, clear and extra magenta spot colors.  

A pioneer in digital printing, Xeikon designs, develops and delivers high-end digital colour printing systems for the industrial, document and commercial printing market segments. These systems are composed of advanced web-fed printing engines using LED-array-based, dry toner electrophotography, open workflow software, exclusive toner and other consumables.

AWA INDUSTRY CONFERENCE ON SELF-ADHESIVE MATERIALS, MANUFACTURING AND MARKETS

The self-adhesive label, tape, medical/ hygiene, and graphics industries are characterised by an extremely complex value chain. They are currently challenged by raw material price inflation, a highly-competitive business environment, and sustainability issues. The 2010 Self-adhesive Technology & Market Conference, organised by AWA Conferences & Events, represents an opportunity for industry participants at all levels - production, R & D and technical management, marketing, product management, converting  -- to look at the ‘big picture’. The conference agenda will identify areas for future innovation; discuss threats and challenges to existing business; highlight new end-use markets;  and evaluate advances in product and process technology.

The Pressure-sensitive/Self-adhesive Technology workshop is designed to introduce participants to the basics of self-adhesive products, including their design, manufacture and end-use. The target audiences are professionals involved with marketing, research, technical support, quality control and production that may be new to the self-adhesive industry as well as those professionals needing a primer on the technical aspects of self-adhesive products. To support understanding of the market and the technical background for self-adhesives, a broad range of topics from market trends to “why self-adhesives work” will be covered.

The conference – in Amsterdam, 18-19 November 2010 - features expert speakers from across the value chain.  The opening session will provide an overview of the global self-adhesive label and graphic arts markets, and trends in materials, end-use markets, and testing.   A full session addressing regulatory and environmental matters - including options for web waste in self-adhesive label converting, adhesive recyclability, solvents, and REACH – completes the formal program for the first day.   The second day opens with an evaluation of materials development, including adhesives for pack reclosures and hotmelts.  

In-depth papers on process and equipment developments such as coating and drying technology, machinery for coating labelstock and tapes; and slide die-coating complete the formal program. Networking opportunities during breaks and around the accompanying tabletop exhibition are extensive; and conference sponsors UPM are hosting a cocktail reception at the end of the first day.

Full details of the Self-adhesive Technology & Market Conference 2010, Dutch Design Hotel Artemis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 18-19 November 2010, are available via the AWA website,www.awa-bv.com, where it is also possible to register online.

KODAK DEMONSTRATED THE LATEST KODAK FLEXCEL NX DIGITAL FLEXOGRAPHIC SYSTEM AT THE PACKAGING INNOVATIONS SHOW

At the Packaging Innovations Show that took place at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London on 7th and 8th October, Kodak demonstrated its Kodak Flexcel NX Digital Flexographic System technology which offers customers the ability to develop business through innovation. Reproflex 3 Ltd, a Kodak customer, and National Flexibles who also have stands are demonstrating creative samples of flexible packaging printed with the Flexcel NX System.

 

“Kodak is confirming its commitment to the packaging print sector," says Jonathan Moore, Kodak Packaging Sales Director for the UK and Nordic regions. “We are delighted to attend the Packaging Innovations Show and join our customer Reproflex 3 and its printer National Flexibles. All three stands demonstrated samples of the quality and innovation of the Kodak Flexcel NX System technology." 

 

Kodak recently won a 2010 InterTech Technology Award from the Printing Industries of America - the highest honour for innovation in the graphic communications industry for Kodak Digicap NX Screening which is used with the Kodak Flexcel NX Digital Flexographic System to improve ink transfer efficiency during flexographic printing, especially when printing on films.

 

The Flexcel NX System achieves levels of print quality that you would normally expect from gravure, offset or digital printing.  The Flexcel NX System drives significant cost savings on press with high resolution.  The flat-top dots deliver wide impression latitude, fast set-ups and long plate life. As a result users find that make-ready wastage costs can decline by 25% and their plates are capable of run lengths two or four times greater than traditional digital plates.

 

One-to-One Reproduction

The Kodak Flexcel NX System is a flexographic system that enables true one-to-one reproduction of the image from file to plate.  Kodak SquareSpot Imaging Technology, the Thermal Imaging Layer (TIL) and the process of exposure in the absence of oxygen mean that the image in the digital file is faithfully reproduced pixel for pixel, bringing total predictability to the process.

 

High Resolution Imaging 

The Kodak Flexcel NX Imagers use SquareSpot Imaging Technology, giving an effective resolution of 10,000dpi to enable printing dots as small as 10 microns.   This allows subtle highlights details, vignettes and fade to zero and the use of all available grey levels. Because of the one-to-one reproduction and the flat-top dots none of the detail is lost from beginning to end of the print run.

 

Superior Ink Transfer

Effective ink transfer has a tremendous impact on both visual appearance and print production efficiency. The Kodak Flexcel NX Digital Flexographic Plates, with their flat-top dot structure and resistance to impression, enable higher print densities and smoother solids.  In those print applications where ink transfer is a problem, a significant boost can be achieved through the use of Kodak Digicap NX Screening, which applies a micro fine surface texturization pattern to the printing surface of the Flexcel NX Plate. 

ESKOARTWORK TECHNOLOGY SPEEDS UP SAMPLE MAKING FOR EUROPE MATCH

Europe Match GmbH, Europe’s largest producer of advertising matches, recently selected EskoArtwork’s ArtiosCAD packaging software and Kongsberg XE10 cutting table to speed up production of its product samples. Combining the world’s most popular structural design software with the best-in-class cutting table, Europe Match now produces high quality samples, which are 100% identical to the final product, within hours. The EskoArtwork technology, renowned in the market for its accuracy and precision, is also used during the pre-production phase to create files for plate layouts and die tooling.

 

Producing over 1 million match boxes per day, Europe Match GmbH is Europe’s largest manufacturer of promotional (advertising) matches. While its headquarters are based in Germany, the company’s mass-production facilities are located in Szeged, Hungary, which operates around the clock to meet the demand for the company’s products. With a clear focus on quality and customer service, the company prides itself on reacting fast to the needs of its customers. The investment in EskoArtwork’s technology reinforces this successful strategy, enabling the company to deliver samples of customized products within extremely short time frames. 35% of the project value was financed by EU, with reference number GOP -2.1.1-09/A/2-2009-0338

  

The Perfect Match

“In today’s competitive environment fast reaction to customer’s requests is critical,” explains  Szabolcs Nagy , IT Manager at Europe Match GmbH. “We’re seeing an increasing demand for customized shapes and formats and it’s imperative to demonstrate what you can offer - quickly. First, we use ArtiosCAD to create a 3D virtual model of the match box - complete with graphics - which is sent to the customer as a 3D PDF file. The Kongsberg table enables us to follow up immediately with a high-quality physical model which is 100% identical to the final product. Because there’s no manual cutting or expensive dies, this is an extremely fast process and customers can immediately see - and feel - what they will get. This makes it really easy for them to make a decision.” 

 

Pre-manufacturing tasks

The EskoArtwork solution is not only a powerful marketing tool for Europe Match; it also plays an important role in optimizing the production process. “Once the order is taken we then proceed to set up for mass production,” continues Mr.  Nagy . “We use the layout and tooling features in ArtiosCAD to create plate layouts and die-tooling. The Intelligent Layout module automatically works out the optimum layouts for lowest cost - ensuring the most efficient use of raw material. With the DieMaker module we can quickly create quality die boards and coating blankets from a sheet layout for both flat and rotary dies,” adds Mr.  Nagy .

 

Kongsberg XE10 cutting table

The Kongsberg XE10 is a small-format dieless digital table for cutting and creasing folding carton boxes. Featuring a servo system with accelerations up to 1.2G, resolution of 0.005mm and repeatability of 20µm, the table operates at lightning speed while maintaining perfect precision. With a work area of 800mm x 1100mm (31.5″ x 43.3″), the Kongsberg XE10 can accept material as large as 900mm x 1200mm (35.4″ x 47.2″).

 

The table comes with a range of expandable tooling options including a pressure controlled, high-precision kiss-cutting knife tool, reciprocating knife tool for corrugated and foam board, static knife tool for solid materials and a crease tool for packaging materials. The Kongsberg XE10 can process a wide range of packaging materials including folding carton, single flute corrugated board and synthetic materials such as polypropylene.

 

ArtiosCAD packaging software

EskoArtwork’s ArtiosCAD is recognized as the world’s most popular CAD software for packaging. Designed specifically for packaging professionals, ArtiosCAD delivers a true end-to-end packaging design workflow with full integration between structural design, graphic design and packaging production. The “round trip” design connectivity with Adobe  Illustrator  enhances productivity and communication between structural and graphic designers. Complete 3D integration within ArtiosCAD enables quick prototyping of designs and reduces design review time cycles considerably. The same structural design assets produced in ArtiosCAD can also be used to create files for die-tooling and step-and-repeat layouts for printing. 

GSE DISPENSING’S INK LOGISTICS BRING SUSTAINABLE, LEAN BUSINESS BENEFITS TO FLEXO AND GRAVURE PRINTERS IN SOUTH EAST ASIA

Automated ink logistics are an essential component of a cost-conscious, sustainable printing operation that meets the global brand-owners' demands for quality consistency and responsiveness. This is especially the case when complex spot colours are required for a unique brand identity.

GSE Dispensing's gravimetric, automated ink dispensing solutions empower printers to prepare the precise colour quality, to the exact volume requirements, on demand. "Our technology offers numerous benefits besides equipping printers to meet the global brand owners' demands for total colour consistency," explains GSE's senior sales manager Johan Kerseboom, who is set to speak on the topic of ink logistics at the Asian Flexographic Technical Association's flexible packaging and labelling conference in Jakarta, Indonesia, November 18 - 19. "It removes the risk of printing rejects during production, reduces ink waste, and minimises the chance of press down-time as workflow bottle necks at ink-mixing stage are avoided. Furthermore, procurement costs can be reduced by as much as 25 percent because the need to outsource ink mixing operations to external sources is eliminated."

At the AFTA event's exhibition, GSE Dispensing will present its range of options under its Smart (th)inking theme. The Dutch company offers a wide range of modular gravimetric ink and paste dispensing systems, tailored to the individual needs of the graphics and textile printer. The Colorsat Match dispenser is ideal for label printing applications, enables clean, fast and waste-free recipe preparation in batches of 1 to 5 kg. Others in the range include the Slim and Compact systems that handle larger volume requirements required in flexible packaging or board printing situations.

Typically, volume requirements for the most challenging recipes are dispensed to an accuracy of one gram. Dispensing time takes between two and four minutes, depending on the system. Excess ink from a print run is easily reused, located and retrieved from stock, for easy reuse in future jobs. Some customers have boosted ink yields by as much as 30 percent, thanks to GSE Dispensing's technology. A high-powered software platform, IMS^TM, whose time-saving features include management tools such as stock control, ink consumption analysis, recasting and traceability of ink ingredients by batch, as required in pharmaceutical and food packaging applications.

GSE Dispensing has a network of local distributors, such as Techno Global Graphics in South East Asia and International Caliber in India, who can provide expert technical support at short notice, in the local language. Also, remote diagnostics, to proactively resolve any issues with dispensing system software via internet, are provided around the clock from the GSE headquarters. Since it was founded in 1974, the company has achieved over 1400 installations world-wide.

PRATI APPOINTS BRYAN IVENS AS SALES MANAGER AT PRATI AUTOMATION

Prati Automation, recently established to manage the sales & services operations of the PRATI machines in the label and converting industry in US and Canada, made its public debut at Labelexpo Americas 2010. At the show, Chiara Prati, Worldwide Sales Manager at PRATI, and Glen Morris, Managing Partner at Prati Automation introduced Bryan Ivens as Sales Manager for the North American market. Brian Ivens is well know in the North American labelling market and he has already been successful in selling his first Prati machine, a Jupiter TC330, to a label printer in Canada. 

 

In his new role, Bryan Ivens brings 33 years of experience in the finishing market as worldwide sales manager at Arpeco and Rotoflex. “I am thrilled to start this new challenge and provide the North American label printers with a better understanding of the advantages and benefits PRATI solutions can bring to their business and to their customers. It is an excellent opportunity to apply my experience, gained in the finishing industry, to the label market.” 

“Bryan has a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of the labelling market," says Chiara Prati. "We received positive feedback from the market during Labelexpo Americas following his appointment. People said we now have the best sales person in America.”

 

PRATI supplies machines for self-adhesive label print-finishing: covering customisation, inspection, die-cutting, matrix waste removal, rewinding, slitting and overprinting. The company’s product range incorporates versatile-use solutions which contribute to increased productivity at a low cost. These include the Jupiter and Saturn inspection tables, the modular and customer-specifically adjustable VegaPlus platforms, the PharmaCheck finishing system, which is tailored specially to the needs of the pharmaceutical industry, and Uranus for overprinting and verifying data. 

FIRST SHOWING OF THE XEIKON 3500 IN CHINA : A FIRM COMMITMENT TO ASIA PACIFIC MARKET

Xeikon, a division of Punch Graphix is using the Labelexpo South China show platform for the first demonstration of Xeikon’s new flagship digital label press, the Xeikon 3500, in this important Asia Pacific market. Xeikon is exhibiting on stand A2. 

The Xeikon 3500 digital label press was launched in May 2010, and is set to have a significant impact on the breakeven point between digital label printing and conventional print technologies. Capable of printing up to 516 mm wide at a speed of 19,2 m/min in up to 5 colors, the system is almost twice as productive as the closest competitor product. The Xeikon 3500 digital press can print on an unmatched range of substrates, including self-adhesive paper, co-extruded films, Bopp and PET, regular papers, transparent and opaque foils, and paperboards with weights ranging from 40 to 350 gsm. It uses Xeikon’s QA-I toner, which meets all the applicable FDA guidelines for indirect food contact as well as direct food contact.

At the show, the Xeikon 3500 is printing on self-adhesive materials from Avery Denison, Manter and Raflatac, to produce a range of applications such as pharmaceutical labels, food labels and high quality wine labels. The event’s conference program will also feature Xeikon’s Hans Gerinckx presentation on the subject of digital printing, in combination with EskoArtwork.

Hans Gerinckx, Sales Director APAC, AME and SA at Xeikon, says: “Last year, the Labelexpo show in Shanghai clearly illustrated that the Chinese market is investing in new technology such as digital printing. It was therefore a no-brainer for us to participate this year in this new show taking place in the most industrial part of China. We are proud to bring the Xeikon 3500, the most productive digital label press, to the Chinese market for the first time.”

Earlier this year, Xeikon announced a distribution agreement with Shanghai-based flexo printing equipment supplier United Printing Equipment to target the Chinese labelling and packaging market, and Benny Shaw, President of United Printing Equipment, comments: “We are very happy with the support Xeikon is demonstrating by bringing over the Xeikon 3500 press. It really shows their commitment to the Chinese market.”

FINAT ESTABLISHES DIGITAL LABEL TASK FORCE

In the past 15 years there has been a continuing growth of digital printing technologies with now over 30 digital label press suppliers in the market, representing some 40 different models. With more than 1,300 digital label presses already installed, digital label printing is now regarded as a mainstream label printing technology. It is accepted by thousands of end-user customers in all kinds of applications and in a wide range of run lengths. 

 

Over many years, printability testing equipment, procedures and standards for conventional printing by offset, letterpress, flexo or gravure have become widely used and/or accepted by the paper and board, printing, converting and print end-user sectors. However, most of the standard printability tests and procedures have yet to be fully tried, modified or utilized - or new tests developed, for the digital printing of labels and packaging. So, although the digital market matured significantly over the past decade, there remains a major leap to being taken.

For that purpose and upon the initiative taken by IGT Testing Systems and label guru Mike Fairley, a task force representing different disciplines has now been established. This technical digital label printability group is now to explore the possibilities of setting up a common testing framework facilitated under the Finat umbrella. The overall aim is to make digital label printing a more globally standardized technology in terms of printability, performance standards, test methods and procedures. There are a number of challenges currently identified and determined. There is a need for defining and agreeing on digital technologies and terminology. It is desirable to benchmark digital label printing processes against each other and against conventional printing on existing test equipment. In addition, standards and procedures for testing digital label printing need to be written and dedicated or new test methods developed where required. 

 

“In the light of the current global supply chain with pressing needs for global standards, being technical or environmental, it is my belief that less is more,” comments Andrea Vimercati, President at Finat. “Collaboration and commitment to meeting common needs and driving common initiatives is what matters, not the technology as such. Finat is there to serve the needs of both ‘conventional’ and digital label companies to jointly develop and determine the overall labelling and packaging agenda.”

 

Finat, founded in Paris in 1958 and headquartered in The Hague (The Netherlands), is the world-wide association for manufacturers of self-adhesive labels and related products and services. With 600 members in over 50 countries around the world, Finat has much to offer to label converters and all suppliers to the labeling industry in terms of information exchange and the opportunity to network internationally.

YUPO INTRODUCES A NEW SECURITY PRODUCT FOR THE LABEL MARKET: YUPO SECURITY GRADE

Yupo, the largest manufacturer of synthetic papers in the Western Hemisphere, has introduced a new security product for the label market: YUPO Security Grade. As the world’s leading IML substrate provider, Yupo’s tamper evident label substrate can help brand managers and product developers gain advantage over competitors in the marketplace.

“When your product security requires more than just ‘V-O-I-D’, you need our Yupo Security Grade IML substrate, said Bill Hewitt, marketing manager for Yupo. For anti-counterfeit and anti-shoplift labels, tamper-proof applications or even non-reproducible couponing options, YUPO Security Grade gives makers more flexibility.”

What’s more, Hewitt said, this security product continues Yupo’s commitment to sustainability and waste-reduction qualities. The way the label functions is that a top layer is de-laminated when the label is peeled-off, and a printed image layer remains on the surface of the product “Chief among YUPO Security Grade’s advantages is its design-free construction allows printing on both sides,” Hewitt explained. The product is non-sticky after it’s peeled-off and won’t allow re-application once removed, Hewitt said. Reverse printed images will appear on the remaining layer after the top section is removed, yet the remaining layer itself is not easily removed. Hewitt said. “Many customers don’t know that Yupo can help on the R & D side of the equation, too.” 

Hewitt described Yupo Security Grade as an example of the company’s commitment to developing new YUPO grades to meet the needs of new applications. "This year, tamper-evident labeling is emerging as an important segment in the label market and is used in many ways to avoid counterfeit products and protect shipments of value added goods," he added.

MEECH LAUNCHES MODULAR IN MOULD LABELLING SYSTEM AT K 2010

UK manufacturer Meech International is using K 2010 as the venue for the worldwide launch of the 994 IML high voltage generator.  The new generator works in conjunction with the recently introduced Meech Hydra, a miniaturised in-mould labelling pinning system specifically designed for use in situations where small items are being moulded.  The 994 Hyrda system overcomes many of the issues encountered with other commonly used in-mould labelling technologies and because of this the purchase and running costs are reduced significantly.

“Meech has been involved in static control technology for decades and we’ve called upon that experience to develop a product that meets the requirements of OEMs and end users, many of whom are unhappy with the in-mould labelling options currently available on the market when dealing with smaller containers and labels,” says international product manager David Rogers.

“The new 994 Hydra system provides powerful, repeatable pinning with no degradation over time.  Indeed, the operational life is almost indefinite.  With this new Meech system, OEMs are free to make their own label carriers, which can be produced at a greatly reduced cost compared to some other IML technologies. The components of the 994 Hydra system are easy to mount, as well as being straightforward to connect and disconnect during mould tool changes.  The design eliminates the chance of sparking and the possibility of expensive damage to the mould tool.  The choice of materials ensures that the problem of potential contamination of the container, sometimes seen with conductive foam based IML systems, is removed.”

The standard 994 Hydra system consists of resistively coupled distributors connected in parallel to the new 994 IML generator.  The distributors provide independent, spark-free, operation of the pinning heads and have a mounting footprint of only 50 x 86 mm.  The pinning heads are only 15 mm long x 5 mm diameter, making installation possible on the smallest label carriers. 

“We’ve completely redesigned the static generator to create a simplified, lightweight model that generates the 20kV required for IML applications.  The generator offers full remote control and reporting via the universal analogue facility.  The easy to fit generator requires only a 24V supply and is light enough to be mounted on the end of arm tool, if required.”

To assist customers, Meech can supply recommendations for pin positions.  Customers can specify individual cable lengths for bespoke systems or can finish the cables to the correct length themselves, making them ideal for OEMs.

“There is no doubt that using static in the process of in-mould labelling is the way that the industry is moving, because of the huge number of benefits it offer over more traditional vacuum systems,” says David Rogers.  “What we have done at Meech is to utilise the experience built up within the company over many years in designing and installing static control systems, to create a static-based solution to the problems commonly encountered when handling small containers and labels in an in-mould labelling environment. We believe that visitors to the Meech stand at K 2010 will find the low purchase and operating costs of the new 994 Hydra system, combined with the enormous production benefits, extremely attractive.”

The South China Label Show opens tomorrow at Guangzhou’s Jinhan Exhibition Center

Tarsus newest show in the south of China - The South China Label Show that starts tomorrow is the region’s only event this year for you to see the latest printing and packaging technology in action. More than a 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest machinery and materials will be present with the latest technology and updates. Everything is there - from multi-substrate presses to digital presses, laser die cutting to RFID and intelligent labels, in-line decoration systems to multi-process ink systems, VIP substrates to high technology label films, sleeves and wraps.

Taking place tomorrow morning, just before the show opens, the Opening Ceremony will be held in a specially built conference theatre on the show floor. The contemporary ceremony has been designed to reflect the rapidly advancing nature of the market in South China and there will be introductions from global experts who are key industry figures. This is one opening ceremony that shouldn't be missed.

Also, a range of conference sessions are also organized in tune with the demand as this show gives you an opportunity to learn from top experts in 12 FREE in-depth conference sessions, including a keynote presentation from Ilkka Ylipoti, Senior Vice President Asia Pacific, UPM Raflatac, on the first day of the show. Whether you are looking to meet leading suppliers, brand owners or converters or just to share information and set up partnerships to put you ahead of your competitors, the South China Label Show is the place to get the tools and techniques to grow your business. 

MCC RECEIVES CHINESE GOVERNMENT APPROVALS FOR A CHINESE OPERATION

US-based label giant Multi-Color Corporation (MCC) will establishing label operations in China. Having received Chinese Government approvals, a new MCC facility will be located in Guangzhou, near many national and international consumer products brand owners.

MCC claims it is bringing modern label technology and know-how to support the rapidly growing consumer demand for high quality packaged products in China. The new business will be run by MCC's Asia Pacific president of consumer products, Brenton Barrett. He will lead a largely local team with specific expatriate support.

Nigel Vinecombe, president and CEO of MCC says, "We look forward to being able to support our existing international customers and new customers in the Chinese market. This investment underlines our commitment to the home and personal care and food and beverage market segments as well as to developing markets. We expect to be operational in the first quarter of calendar 2011.”

MCC is one of the world's largest label printers with annual revenues over US$300m and with operations on four continents. Specializing in the home & personal care, food & beverage and wine & spirit markets, MCC is the only global U.S. publicly listed label company and specializes in the highly fragmented multi-billion dollar label industry.

HOT TOPICS TO BE DISCUSSED AT SOUTH CHINA LABEL SHOW

With just over a week to go until the South China Label Show, which kicks of October 25 at the Guangzhou Jinhan Exhibition Centre, organisers have released the conference programme, which will cover many new and debatable issues. Tarsus, the organizers of this new label show in South China say the programme consists of carefully selected speakers, including brand owners, environmental experts, key suppliers and illustrated customer case studies.

Twelve comprehensive sessions, including sessions from HP, Avery and their customers, will run over the three days with the keynote presentation being delivered by Ilkka Ylipoti, VP Asia Pacific of UPM Raflatac. This session will look in detail at the global trends of the industry and the current position of the Chinese printing industry, the market forecasts and trends throughout China, it will give an analysis on the region’s use of technology and also an analysis of markets and applications as well as covering other subjects. Topics for the other conference sessions will include:

• Digital label printing: State of the art and digital solutions - this session will give a comprehensive explanation of the digital technologies: inkjet, liquid and dry toner. It will also look at how to integrate digital and conventional technologies and how to use digital technology to enhance a brand.
• Environmental solutions for the label industry in China: Some of the questions that will be answered in this session include: ‘What is the environmental strategy of the Chinese government in areas such as carbon emissions?’, ‘Liner and matrix waste recycling – an important issue in China?’, and ‘What are the main environmental standards recognized by the Chinese government and by end users in China?’.
• Anti counterfeiting solutions and security: This session will look at measuring the scale of counterfeiting in China, protecting inkjet systems, security inks (including: photochromic ink and UV fluorescent inks) and a case study to demonstrate combating pharmaceutical counterfeiting.
• Brand owners/converters: The session will explore what Chinese brand owners are looking for from printers, what the opportunities are for brands using digital printing,  give an analysis on brand protection and counterfeiting in China and what the solutions are, and also look at smart label solutions – can printers make profits from RFID and smart label technology? 

John Davy, show director for the South China Label Show says, “The Show has been well received by the industry with exhibitor numbers and visitor pre-registration already exceeding expectations. “We have noticed a distinct interest from digital players as well as a strong line up of conventional technology providers and material and consumable suppliers.”