When API Foils decided to upgrade the metallizing operations at its Rahway, NJ location, the converter turned to General Vacuum Equipment (www.bobstgroup.com) following the successful experience of sister company API Foils Lawrence (Kansas) with its own General metallizer.

Part of API Group plc, which manufactures decorative and security packaging materials for use in the tobacco, beverage, luxury goods, food and consumer products markets, API Foils is one of the world's largest producers of hot- and cold-stamping foils for various applications in specialized packaging materials. The API Group maintains plants throughout Europe, Asia-Pacific and the US.

API Foils Rahway chose the high-productivity, 88.5-in.-wide General EHF vacuum web coater. Designed for volume metallizing of plastic films ranging from BOPP, PET and CPE to LDPE, UPVC and nylon, the system combines coat quality and process control at speeds up to 2,750 fpm. It features a closed loop automatic-deposition control system for precise coating thicknesses and evaporation conditions.

“We wanted a machine that would provide product consistency and improve our manufacturing capabilities,” says Joe DeParto, general manager at API Foils Rahway. “The new metallizer also addresses a bottleneck in our operations. General's EHF metallizer not only produces batch-controlled aluminum metallizing but also provides the HRI (High Refractive Index) coatings needed for our diffraction and holographic products.”

The EHF has an advanced winding system for precise control of the web tension and a touchscreen system for easy operator interaction. API is also preparing to sign up for the General MetCare AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) extended-service program.