Converters can get a comprehensive look at new packaging-related converting machinery and materials at Pack Expo Intl. 2002, set for Nov. 3-7 at Chicago's McCormick Place.

Sponsored by Arlington, VA-based PMMI, the show features the latest advances in bag- and boxmakers, pouch formers, printers, diecutters, slitter/rewinders, and tension-control equipment. Also on display are holographic materials, papers, foils, films, adhesives and coatings to help promote brands at point-of-sale and protect products through distribution and use.

"Pack Expo is where converters can view the machinery that runs their finished products," says PMMI president Charles D. Yuska. "Keeping current of the latest packaging machinery and materials will enable them to adapt their products and gain a competitive edge in the converting industry." Among some of the advancements that await:

Maxcess Intl. (Camas, WA) will feature new components and accessories from Fife, Tidland and MAGPOWR to help increase production capacity and quality in web-processing applications.

Amplas, Inc. (Green Bay, WI) will unveil its Dry-sak Machine, capable of making bags from a single sheet, without glue and patches. The Dry-sak is ideal for powdered products such as fertilizer, cement and sugar.

Dienes Corp. (Spencer, MA), a supplier of slitting accessories, systems and services, showcases its new Center Linear Bearing (CLB) System. The CLB provides stability and effortless gliding of the top slitter knifeholder over a linear bearing rail.

Kammann Machines, Inc. (St. Charles, IL) features its new K14-U automatic screen-printer, which is capable of printing on cylindrical, oval and flat plastic containers in single- and multiple colors.

All together, Pack Expo Intl. will present more than 1,600 machinery, materials, components and containers suppliers and occupy 1.2 million net sq ft of exhibit space. Approximately 50,000 qualified customers/buyers are expected, including 6,000 international visitors from more than 60 countries.

More info: 703/243-8555, fax: 703/243-8556, www.packexpo.com