Gearless in 8- or 10-color configurations

The N8G and N10G 8- and 10-color, respectively, CI-flexo presses have printing widths of 31.5 to 63 in. and a print-repeat range of 13.75 to 35.5 in. These gearless presses have a maximum speed of 1,600 fpm. The company has just finished numerous installations of this press in the US.

FLEXOTECNICA, 920/499-2291, www.flexotecnica.it

Lightest in the market

Co. introduces its new, patent-pending 1260-LF ultralight aluminum, multiple-bladder leaf shaft. Developed under critical ergonomic guidelines, the model at less than 0.24 lpi of assembled body is reportedly the lightest weight 3-in. shaft on the market. The bladders are easily accessible and can be replaced in 10 to 15 mins, co. says. The 1260-LF shaft is aimed at light-duty single- or multiple-roll applications and drum-supported systems.

GOLDENROD CORP., 800/465-3763, www..goldrod.com

Using brushless technology, NEMA mountings

The new brushless DC motors, BSM25/33, are available with NEMA mountings and 0.25 to 3 HP at 1,800 rpm. These motors are tolerant of harsh environments and have permanent magnets on the rotor and windings on the stator. With windings on the stator, the motor can handle higher continuous loads without exceeding design temperatures. Because there are no brushes, these motors have longer life and operate quieter, co. says. With high-density magnets on the rotor, they get up to speed faster and provide smaller, efficient packages. The new BMC-Series speed controls are available from 0.25 to 3 HP and will accept 115, 208 or 230 Vac input voltage. They include protection features such as RMS current, short circuit, electronic inrush, under-voltage and over-voltage, motor overload, MOV transient, and come protected in a finger-safe IP20 package.

BALDOR, 479/646-4711, www..baldor.com .

For frequent-changeover applications

The new TruWide sensor gives converters the ability to run multiple webs and a variety of materials without time-consuming setup changes or sensor repositioning. Ultrasonic sensing “nodes” are active at all times throughout the entire width of the sensing area, eliminating the need to reposition the sensor between runs and optimizing web alignment in applications with high instances of web-width variations.

FIFE CORP., 800/639-3433, www..fife.com

For item-level package and label coding

The patented FractureCode system, an item-level coding and track-and-trace system, features an unusual symbology containing a unique, non-sequential code that provides organizations with a secure, field-readable technology for authentication of individual products. Traditionally generated using conventional rotary-printing processes such as gravure and flexo, co. offers an additional way of adopting the new technology via the DataLase® process. Using a patented ink that changes color upon exposure to a low-power laser during the production of products, the FractureCode image can be embedded into laminated materials or under the surface of plastic films, creating a tamper-proof result.

FRACTURECODE CORP., 45/88-960-150 www..fracturecode.com

DATALASE, 770/817-4810, www..datalase.com

Creates p-s laminations in-line

The COHESIO label line enables converters to produce any kind of pressure-sensitive material, from basic self-adhesive paper to complex multilayer applications. As the release paper and face stock are simultaneously unwound and led through the COHESIO, the liner is first coated with silicone, then with adhesive, then laminated to the face stock. The construction is rewound into finished labelstock rolls. The COHESIO can be equipped with an in-line rotary diecutter. By preprinting facestock, either on one side or both, final labels are converted in one simple operation, co. suggests.

ETI CONVERTING EQUIPMENT, INC., 450/641-7900, www..eticonverting.com

Uses only silver plus CMYK

MetalFX is a universal process and spot-metallic color system that allows millions of metallic colors to be printed, all by adding only the one base silver ink to the usual CMYK mix. With the MetalFX 5-color printing process, printers can achieve brilliant metallic results with ease and speed, co. says.

METALFX® TECHNOLOGY, 44/194-388-4888, www..metal-fx.com

Predicts color reproduction

Converters can predict how their customers’ corporate spot colors will reproduce on a wide variety of substrates, from brown corrugated to clear film to white polypropylene, with the SmartColour™ portfolio of color management tools. SmartColour allows packaging developers to see real color end results anywhere in their workflow, by displaying real ink color on the chosen substrate and matching the desired color with the ink that will deliver the brand color on retailer shelves.

SUN CHEMICAL, INC., 866-SUN-SBS6, www..SmartColour.com

With new hot wire seal system

The ELSNER Model EW-4-Series line of shrink film roll overwrappers and heat shrink tunnels include a number of updated features. Highlights of this updated model include utilization of a new hot wire seal system which has a micro-processor based impulse controller. Features such as seal wire and pre-heat temperature and impulse time are now available from a new touch screen operator interface. Other features include a mechanical drive system for the sealing head assembly in place of a pneumatic actuator to reduce air consumption. New pre-shrink heaters, which use less energy, are incorporated.

ELSNER ENGINEERING WORKS, 717/637-5991, www..elsnereng.com

Uses no petroleum distillates

Co. releases an eco-friendly, multi-purpose cleaner for UV- and solvent-based inks that is safe for use on aluminum. AltraWash Blue™ is a new, concentrated cleaner specifically formulated for cleaning UV- and solvent-based inks in pressure-washing systems, soak tanks and ultrasonic tanks, or as an on-press anilox cleaner. The cleaner’s advanced surfactant technology uses no petroleum distillates or environmentally hazardous chemicals. It is a biodegradable, low-VOC product, and has low vapor pressure.

HARPER CORP., 800/438-3111, www..harperimage.com

Synchonizes lamination, cutting

The Smart Laminator-Die Cut System tightly synchronizes roll lamination and diecutting operations so that typical causes of stock and laminate production waste are eliminated, says co. The system’s smart sensors detect sheet misfeeds, several sources of improper laminating or film splices and automatically stop the system so that corrective measures can be taken. They also detect low laminate-film supply or broken-laminate rolls and automatically stop the system.

SPARTANICS, 847/394-5700, www..spartanics.com

For flexo, latex, adhesive and boxboard wastewater

Recycle or wastetreat water-based waste quickly—55- to 1,000-gallon batches in less than 45 mins with co.’s wastewater-treatment system. Single-step process does not require pH adjustment with dangerous acids or alkalis. Resultant sludge dehydrates quickly at room temperature, thus eliminating the need for a filter press or sludge oven.

CLEARWATER TECHNOLOGY, 419/588-3176, www..clearh2o.biz

Eliminates need for air

The industry’s first all-electronic knifeholder eliminates the need for air, reducing setup time and increasing slitting accuracy. The e-Knifeholder can self-calibrate to optimize critical blade geometry during setup. By ensuring the proper adjustments of overlap and side-load force, blade wear is reduced and changes are required less often, translating to less downtime and lower operating costs.

TIDLAND CORP., 800/426-1000, www..tidland.com/cmm/Eknifeholder.asp

Features energy-efficient circuitry

The Corsair TX Series family of high-wattage, high-performance power supplies features a dedicated single +12V rail. The TX Series offers energy-efficient circuitry that is capable of delivering greater than 80-percent efficiency ratings across 20-, 50- and 100-percent load conditions. The units are available in 650- and 750-watt models.

CORSAIR, 888/222-4346, www..corsair.com

Measures seal strength

A new generation of Package Test Systems targeting medical-device packaging converters performs a variety of leak- and seal-strength tests on flexible, rigid and porous materials. The Lippke™ 4000 Series is the next generation in a line of positive-pressure, medical-device packaging test systems designed to measure the strength of the package’s seals and material while simultaneously assessing the package’s ability to seal its contents against atmospheric contamination. The 4000 Series provides precise, accurate and reproducible test results consistent with ASTM Standards F2054, F1140, F2095 and ISO Standard 11607.

MOCON, INC., 763/493-6370, www..mocon.com

For plastic pellets

VersaFill Material Totes are designed for storing and transporting items such as plastic pellets and other bulk components. They can be moved easily with pallet jacks and forklifts and, with lids in place, stacked securely and efficiently. The totes, measuring 45 x 45 in. and 44 in. deep, are available with an optional liner that provides a smooth interior surface for easy removal of fine-grained items.

HARDIGG CASES, 800/542-7344, www..hardigg.com

With self-check functions

Co. has just introduced the Smart Brake pneumatic brake with self-check functions for pad-wear and heat detection. It also has a redesigned exterior that provides easy access to brake pads, improving efficiency on the unwind of a variety of converting machinery.

MAGPOWR, 800/MAGPOWR, www..magpowr.com/lsmart

Does not need pre-heating

The Saphira Thermoplate PN plate for the Suprasetter line of CtP devices supports FM and Hybrid screening up to 400 lpi. Available in 6-, 8- and 12-gauge thicknesses, the Saphira does not require pre-heating, is UV ink compatible and is highly resistant to pressroom chemistries. The plate is capable of more than 500,000 runs without baking and more than one million impressions when baked. It delivers fidelity for 1 to 99 percent at 200 lpi, 20 micron FM and up to 400 lpi micron Hybrid screening.

HEIDELBERG, 770/419-6600, www..heidelberg.com

For digital printing equipment

The Autostat-D is co.’s new contact narrow-web cleaning line that is designed to fit digital printing equipment. It uses its patented grooved faceplate design to be able to get extremely close to thin or low-tension webs without risking drawing the web into the vacuum slot. The system integrates the faceplate with its static control equipment, air jets and torsion bar hinges into a slightly wider vacuum hood design for increased cleaning time.

ELECTROSTATICS, INC., 215/513-0850, www..electrostatics.com

For film and non-woven

The MXProLine™ Foundation is a pre-configured automation system for the plastics, film and non-woven industries. It allows users to set up the system without a gauging expert as the system is fully tested. It features easy-to-use setup displays, calibration utilities and single-variable control tuning.

HONEYWELL, 973/455-2000, www..honeywell.com

Disposable

Jemm-TracCo. is an elastomeric sleeve featuring a tacky surface that will keep rolls turning without marring or scratching substrates. The seamless traction sleeves can slide over any idler roll and are available for rolls 400 in. long or cut to length. The traction roller sleeves fit 1.5-, 2-, 2.5-, 3-, 3.5-, 4-, 5- and 6-in. diameter idler rollers.

JEMMCO, LLC, 262/512-9559, www..jemmco.com

For thermal-transfer systems

Co. develops a Common UNIX Printing System (CUPS)-based printer driverfor its thermal-transfer label printers. It can control the printer’s cutter as well.

THARO SYSTEMS, INC., 800/878-6833, www..qcelectronics.com

Neutralizes static; cleans webs

Co.’s new 48-in. Super Ion Air Knife neutralizes static electricity and blows away dust and contaminants from webs of paper and plastic. It is effective at high speeds, co. says, and cleans up to 20 ft away. An electrically powered static-control bar fills the uniform sheet of air with a high concentration of positive and negative ions.

EXAIR COPR., 800/903-9247, www..exair.com/siak.htm

Treat more with less power

The DT+2 high-powered, corona-treatment electrode system produces the highest-definition corona available, co. says. It enables converters to treat more material faster using less power. With the DT+2 corona treater, 40 percent more power is generated without additional kilowatts. Even operations with existing corona treaters can benefit from the DT+2 as the electrodes retrofit directly into most bare-roll designs. Co. also offers other parts such as capacitors and transformers for corona treaters.

QC ELECTRONICS, 800/366-1988, www..qcelectronics.com

Overcomes pin-holing

Coldfix is a UV-curable, through-cure adhesive formulated for die-less cold foiling. Made to overcome pin-holing problems through improved wetting of the substrate by the adhesive, Coldfix is designed for use with the flexographic process using an anilox roll to transfer the adhesive to a photopolymer plate. The substrate is then “printed” with the foil, which passes through a nip roll and on through a UV lamp to cure the adhesive. A foiled image is finally left on the substrate.

PULSE ROLL LABEL PRODUCTS, 44/145-427-2433, www..pulserl.com

Protects against shorts

Co. introduces the ST10-Si Stepper drives that deliver 24-80 VDC with an output current of up to 10.0 A peak, and are engineered to protect against over-voltage, under-voltage, over-temp and external output shorts. They are programmable for stand-alone operation with intuitive Si Programmer™ Windows-based software. A graphical point-and-click format combines motion, I/O and operator interface functionality for simple machine sequencing.

APPLIED MOTION PRODUCTS, 800/525-1609, www..applied-motion.com

Protects roll stock

The Double Plug packaging systems from co. interlock each roll in a stack and the divider boards interlock all stacks together. A wide selection of Double Plugs in both plastic and fiber/metal models provide protection for all sizes of converted roll stock. Double Plug packages also help reduce shipping weight and cost. Custom plugs are available.

BADGER PLUG, 920/757-7300, www..badgerplug.com

FCC approved

The FCC approves co.’s 10 new RFID read heads. All IDENT RFID products operating at frequencies of 125 kHz, 250 kHz and 13.56 MHz and that intentionally radiate an electromagnetic field are FCC approved.

PEPPER+FUCHS, (330) 486-0001, www..am.pepperl-fuchs.com

Compatible with PUR adhesive formulas

Co. offers hot-melt systems and high-quality, industry-standard compatible replacement parts for converting, print-finishing and packaging applications. Its hot-melt replacement parts include filters, pumps, modules, hoses, guns, nozzles, heater cartridges, pattern controls, temperature controls and other common components. Melt units are available piston pump or gear pump equipped and range from small 10-lb capacity units to high-capacity drum unloaders. Systems are available for all types of adhesives including PUR formulas.

VALCO/MELTON, 513/874-6551, www..meltonhotmelt.com