Features

Labelexpo Americas 2024 Product Preview

Labelexpo Americas 2024 takes place at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL, September 10-12.

Author Image

By: Steve Katz

Associate Editor

Finishing Machinery

A B Graphic International (ABG)
Booth 3300


A B Graphic International (ABG) is showcasing a range of machines designed to enhance productivity and efficiency at Labelexpo Americas. Key highlights include the NSU Lite, a new addition to the company’s Non-Stop Winding range. This new system is being demonstrated inline with ABG’s fourth generation Converter platform and the recently launched Vectra AutoSet Turret Rewinder, demonstrating seamless integration and non-stop capabilities. Additionally, ABG is presenting its flagship Digicon Series 3, including the ABG Connect workflow system. This system exemplifies ABG’s commitment to automation and streamlined processes, allowing users to experience significant improvements in operational efficiency. In total, 12 ABG machines are on display. A full beverage specification Digicon is on display, too. Providing a comprehensive overview of ABG’s product range, live demonstrations of several key solutions are available. These include SRIs, a DigiLite, DigiLase and Shrink Sleeve solutions, each designed to address specific industry challenges and enhance production capabilities.

LED Products

GEW
Booth 3608


GEW is introducing two new high-performance LED products. AeroLED2 is being launched as a refined successor to GEW’s air-cooled AeroLED UV curing system, while LeoLED2 takes LED performance to new heights over the already acclaimed, water-cooled LeoLED system. AeroLED2 delivers an increased power level when compared to the original AeroLED model for faster printing across more applications. It is also newly available for wider web widths to cater to more presses in the narrow web market. AeroLED2 maintains the key attributes of the earlier model: it is ArcLED compatible, meaning that it can easily be interchanged with GEW’s Arc lamp systems while maintaining GEW’s centralized fan cooling architecture. Also, LeoLED2 introduces two power level options to GEW’s water-cooled system. The regular power option offers modest gains over the original LeoLED while maintaining backward compatibility. The high power option, however, brings enhanced increases in UV irradiance and dose over its predecessor, delivering unprecedented performance for the most extreme curing challenges in the packaging market, GEW says.

Dies and Tooling

Wilson Manufacturing
Booth 1229


Wilson is highlighting its tooling solutions, including pin eject, air eject, vacuum, and custom insert dies. These advanced waste management products are designed to boost production and promote sustainability.  Additionally, Wilson Manufacturing is introducing its expanded line of accessories. Highlights include the Cylinder Inspection Tool, designed for precise measurement and assessment of magnetic cylinders and anvil rolls. Also featured is the magnetic-base bearer wipers. These wipers are easy to install, require no machine modifications, and feature a built-in oil reservoir for continuous lubrication, promoting enhanced tooling performance and longevity. Attendees are invited to join evening Happy Hour events, as well, where Wilson Manufacturing is making special announcements and introducing new team members.

Carbon Action Labels

UPM Raflatac
Booth 515


UPM Raflatac is showcasing its new portfolio of Carbon Action plastic labels. These labeling materials enable the next step in packaging carbon footprint reduction throughout the value chain, including Scope 3 emission reduction for converters and brand owners. Labels in the portfolio made with PP White Biobased face material are ISCC PLUS-certified, made with 30% renewable content on a mass-balance basis. The material is derived from refined used-cooking oil. Labels in the portfolio made with Forest Film face material are ISCC PLUS-certified bio-circular on a mass-balance basis. The material is derived from UPM BioVerno naphtha, a 100% wood-based solution. The products are made with recycling compatible adhesives to ensure packaging can be recycled in line with APR guidelines. Both RP74 and RW85C adhesives are compatible with HDPE and PP containers, and RW85C enables the recycling of PET containers. Liner options include materials made from 50% and 90% Post-Consumer Recycled
(PCR) content.

Embellishment and Finishing

Cartes
Booth 5403


Cartes, an Italian finishing and converting equipment manufacturer, is showcasing its GE363WJL model. Based on the Gemini Series, and set with its own digital embellishment technology, the JDS “Jet D-Screen” is combined with a semi-rotary flexo unit and Cartes’ Laser Converting System – an ideal way to produce labels with no tools. Also on display at Labelexpo Americas is the GT365HFSRH model, based on the GT360 platform. The machine features hot stamping and embossing units, a semi-rotary flexo unit, a silk screen unit, a semi-rotary diecutting unit and is “tuned up” with Cartes’ exclusive Labels-On-Label and Cut-Off window systems. Also, Cartes is showing its newest low-end laser converting equipment, the GE361L Star Line, a more compact piece of finishing equipment but with the same time-effective configuration as an entry level laser machine, guaranteed by Cartes quality.

RFID Tag Insertion

Delta ModTech
Booth 5415


Delta ModTech is running two RFID tag insertion demonstrations at Labelexpo Americas 2024. One demonstration is part of the RFID Experience presented by Labelexpo and the other is in Delta ModTech’s booth 5415. Both processes feature Delta ModTech’s patented Island Transfer module and its workhorse Delta Crusader platform. RFID tags are being inserted on pre-printed, diecut labels, in registration with minimal waste. Delta’s Island Transfer process is proven and provides a low-risk solution for introducing RFID tags and antennas to labels. Visit Delta’s booth to see its second machine, an ultra high-speed RFID label converter. It features top inlay insertion speed and accuracy, followed up with Delta’s turret rewinder for continuous runtime with minimal downtime.

Label Materials, RFID technology

Avery Dennison
Booth 119


Avery Dennison is showcasing at Labelexpo Americas 2024 solutions that help solve key industry challenges. Utilizing interactive displays and product activations,the company is demonstrating how Avery Dennison solutions and products are helping solve some of the world’s most complex challenges. Recognizing the increasing demand for RFID technology, Avery Dennison is demonstrating how it supports converters with a range of products and solutions designed to increase transparency and build efficiencies. As compliance regulations and legislation continue to shape the packaging value chain, Avery Dennison says it is ready to show how its solutions not only meet these demands but do so with a lower carbon impact. Booth visitors can discover products that enable recycling or reuse, and learn how they can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Finishing

GM
Booth 6111


Label finishing specialist GM is showcasing its precision-engineered converting machines designed to add maximum value to digitally printed labels. Daily demonstrations will show the latest developments in all aspects of label converting, from embellishment, varnishing, coating, diecutting, and laser cutting to slitting and rewinding. The centerpiece of GM’s booth is a DC350Flex+ Premium finishing line with high-speed diecutting. Visitors can also experience the GM DC350Mini compact and DC350Nano ultra-compact label finishers, as well as the HF350 Hot Foil unit, the LC350 Laser finisher, and the CS350 High-speed sheeter. The DC350Flex+ features semi-rotary varnishing and diecutting at high speeds. Configured with a High-Speed Single Anvil (HSSA), it runs at up to 80 m/m (or 130 m/m when fitted with full rotary diecutting). The modular, flexible design allows converters to choose from multiple configurations, adding options such as digital embellishment, laser cutting, hot foil, and even integration with third-party technologies.

Holographic and Metalized Printing

K Laser Technology
Booth 3205


K Laser Technology, a holographic and metalized printing material supplier, has returned for its 20th year with Labelexpo at this year’s show. Visitors are invited to the K Laser Technology booth to view the newest product samples and discuss specialty print solutions with its sales professionals. K Laser Technology is showcasing its tried-and-true metallic and holographic embellishment solutions for cold foil application, including the exclusive Fresnel lens patterns. Highlighted this year is the holographic embellishment for the growing shrink sleeve label market. Attendees can also visit OEM partners Brotech (5603), JetFX (3134), and Gonderflex (6421 and 6886) to view K Laser Technology’s metallic and holographic embellishments in production during their finishing equipment demonstrations. The company is highlighting the Cold Foil Design Lab, as well. Located in Sarasota, FL, and equipped to assist with packaging ideation, the lab offers specialty print mockups, digital embellishment equipment demonstrations, and technical education.

Platemaking Equipment

Anderson & Vreeland
Booth 929


Anderson & Vreeland is showcasing two new pieces of platemaking equipment: The Orbital XP for water-wash and the AVxpose for thermal platemaking. The Orbital XP is a multi-functional plate processor available for processing water-wash plates up to 25″ x 30″. It is now PLC controlled and fully automatic with a raising and lowering washout lid. With a fully automated LED touch panel display, it features an orbital washout, dual exposure section and an added detac combo drawer. The product has a heat/fume exhaust outlet for outside venting, a stainless steel washout section to prevent corrosion, a dual orbital-action platen for an efficient washout, vacuum pump and electronic solid-state ballasts. The all new AVXpose 3648 is an exposure unit that is part of A&V’s thermal plate processing collection and is on display alongside XSYS’ ThermoFlexX30 digital imager and Xpress thermal processor. The AVXpose is a PLC controlled, high output exposure unit with dual post exposure and detac combo drawer designed for digital imaging and the thermal market.

Hybrid and Digital Printing

Domino
Booth 5821


Domino is demonstrating its N730i Integration Module – a 1200 dpi hybrid solution with the ability to integrate with OEM partners, N610i digital UV inkjet label presses, K600i dual bar digital UV inkjet, and is introducing the new K300. N730i offers 1200 dpi BITSTAR printhead technology and print speeds up to 230 fpm. It is configurable in up to seven colors (CMYKOVW) and covers 92% of the Pantone range, with white printing 76% opacity at speed. An optional flexo priming station (pre-digital) is available to optimize print quality on difficult media types, as well as an optional flexo station (post-digital) for varnishing, brand spot color, or for cost-effective flood white for shrink sleeve applications. The 600 dpi N610i is is available in up to seven colors (CMYKOVW) with 72% white opacity, printing from 164 fpm to to 230 fpm in a Pantone range of 92%. Plus, the new Domino K300 prints up to 410 fpm at 600 dpi, or 820 fpm at 300 dpi.

Digital Inkjet Press

Heidelberg
Booth 3523


Heidelberg is unveiling the Gallus One 17″ digital inkjet label press, featuring an extended color gamut at 230 fpm and brand-new “system to compose.” With compatibility across leading product lines, Gallus says its machines now boost unparalleled adaptability, modularity, and versatility. Existing equipment can be retrofitted or modified, and entirely new configurations can be customized by integrating all Gallus Labelmaster modules, up- and downstream, allowing converters to “compose your print masterpiece with the Gallus One.” The company states Heidelberg and Gallus solutions facilitate not just game-changing levels of adaptability, but market-leading levels of speed and quality – boosting profitability, by design. Labelexpo visitors can also learn more about Prinect, the workflow that streamlines digital production, and explore the latest advancements in the company’s screen technology to embellish and enhance labels.

Sustainable Inks

Zeller+Gmelin
Booth 1015


Zeller+Gmelin is exhibiting what it says are innovative, eco-conscious ink solutions that color today’s world for tomorrow. The company is showcasing its high performance NUVAFLEX energy-curable ink series and the new EarthPrint UV recycle primer. The NUVAFLEX 17 Series inks are formulated for excellent shelf stability, great runnability, and fast and complete curing under environmentally friendly LED systems. The new EarthPrint product line is designed to combat raw material shortages and product recyclability through enhanced wash-off capabilities. All Zeller+Gmelin inks are formulated for color brilliance, advanced opacity, excellent adhesion, and optimized performance in a single pass, saving money, time, and the environment. Committed to a better world, the Zeller+Gmelin Labelexpo booth is featuring nature-inspired elements and surprises for attendees, highlighting Zeller+Gmelin’s eco-conscious ink solutions.

UV Printbar system

Fujifilm
Booth 3623


Fujifilm Integrated Inkjet Solutions is featuring at Labelexpo the 46kUV Printbar System, a UV printbar system for label imprinting. It adds variable data, including high-quality text and codes, at speeds up to 500 fpm at 1200 x 600 dpi. The single-pass printing system adds variable data printing capability to existing production lines.  The 46kUV features the Samba printhead, which leverages the accuracy and precision of Silicon MEMS (Si-MEMS) with the reliability and life of sputtered PZT in a parallelogram shape to deliver enhanced image quality.  The 46kUV is available in 13″, 17″, and 20″ widths. The DE1024 Digital Embellishment System is also on display. It adds gloss or tactile effects to existing analog or digital print production. Fujifilm says it can seamlessly integrate into existing label presses and other narrow web machines.

Cohesio

ETI Converting Equipment
Booth 817



ETI Converting Equipment is featuring live demonstrations of its Cohesio equipment, producing high-quality pressure sensitive laminates. ETI booth visitors can experience flexographic printing, silicone coating, adhesive coating/laminating, and diecutting, transforming raw materials into finished labels in real time. In a unique collaboration, Martin Automatic’s MBS Butt Splicers and Lemu Group’s GTU Turret Rewinder and UltraCompact end-of-line automation equipment are integrated with ETI Converting’s Cohesio machine. “Discover new possibilities in automation and configuration that can elevate production processes. Don’t miss this synergy of cutting-edge technologies,” the company says.

Teslin

PPG
Booth 5619


PPG is exhibiting its versatile Teslin material and labelstock, a synthetic material renowned for excellent durability and performance in challenging environments. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of various industries, Teslin labelstock is available in five standard types: General-Purpose Permanent, Ultimate Bond, General-Purpose Removable, BS 5609-certified for marine conditions, and two Pharmaceutical-Grades: tight mandrel and low-energy and sterilization applications. What sets Teslin labels apart is a microporous structure that absorbs inks, toners, adhesives, and coatings, ensuring labels remain secure and vibrant over time. This makes it ideal for applications requiring long-lasting durability and security, such as GHS-compliant chemical containers, tamper-evident packaging, and high-end branding for wine and spirits. Teslin labelstock is compatible with various print technologies, including digital inkjet, laser, and thermal transfer.

Presses

Mark Andy
Booth 319


Mark Andy is featuring five printing presses, off-line finishing systems, and products designed to drive progress in the narrow web industry. Highlights include the Domino iQ-R digital engine integrated with the Mark Andy 2200 flexo press, the versatile Digital Pro MAX, the Digital Series HD, and the new P Series S9 for the label and flexible packaging markets. Additionally, the Mark Andy Pro Series press is beingshowcased in the Domino booth (821). Adjacent booth 424 is featuring the Rotoflex VLI-700, optimized for running unsupported films at the highest speeds, and the Rotoflex VSI-330, the industry’s benchmark finishing and converting solution. Mark Andy Print Products (MAPP), supplying the offset, flexo, digital, and letterpress industries, is introducing a new line of branded products.

Automation

Martin Automatic
Booth 811

In an ambitious plan to bring automated reality to life at an exhibition for the first time, Martin Automatic is combining its own machines with that of complementary technology from LemuGroup and ETI to manufacture a label production job in real time on booth 811. The concept is to demonstrate that converters wanting a choice of technology can use three separate companies yet still end up with a perfectly integrated line for everyday production of high-quality products, knowing that each element is “best in class.”  The Martin Automatic equipment at the show is an MBS Butt Splicer rated at 800 fpm (245 m/m) on web widths to 26″ (660mm) and maximum roll diameter of 40″ (1,016mm). But to feed the ETI line for manufacturing labelstock, Martin is supplying a second MBS for dual web feed into the ETI laminator. The second splicer has a reduced running-direction footprint with an integrated 90-degree
micropore turnbar.

Water-based pigment Inkjet

Arrow Systems, Inc. (ASI)
Booth 5703


Arrow Systems, Inc. is showcasing its latest in water-based pigment inkjet printing at Labelexpo Americas, along with a range of digital finishing equipment to complement it. The ArrowJet range delivers resolution up to 1600 x 1600 dpi and print speeds up to 60 m/m, all while using Nestle and Swiss compliant, water-based inks. The ArrowJet 330R M Series is making its US debut at the show. The M Series features a modular design, allowing customers to integrate a range of inline solutions to the inkjet printer, such as inline priming, varnish, lamination, slitting, and more, allowing customers to tailor the machine to their requirements, and upgrade the machine after installation. In addition to the ArrowJet range, ASI is showcasing the EZCut range of digital knife finishing equipment. The latest upgrades to the EZCut 330R+ include auto knife adjustment, roll to part option, auto-job change, and more.

Digital Presses, Embellishment

Konica Minolta
Booth 6545


Konica Minolta is demonstrating its new AccurioLabel 400. The press offers CMYK and a new fifth station for white dry toner for true white applications that expand creative label design, with production speeds up to 131 fpm and resolution equivalent to 3600 x 2400 dpi. The easy-to-operate 77 fpm AccurioLabel 230 digital toner press meets the growing market needs for shorter runs and more customization, and provides operational benefits for those looking to bring label production in-house. The simple user interface and integrated software packages allow any user to quickly learn and operate the press. Konica Minolta’s new JETvarnish 3D Web 400, a 100% web-fed digital embellishment solution that seamlessly integrates spot UV varnish, hot-foil stamping and variable data printing in a single pass, will make its North American debut at Labelexpo Americas 2024.

Wine & Spirits Labels

Fedrigoni Self-Adhesives
Booth 3101


Fedrigoni Self-Adhesives is showcasing a variety of new products in its booth. Wine & Spirits converters can expect to see a breadth of products, including a premium black paper range, materials with recycled content and 100% recycled label materials, materials made from alternative fibers, coordinating neck labels and an entirely new portfolio and swatch book. Home and personal care printers can peruse a selection of films and experience Fedrigoni’s patented open-close technology for wet wipes. Lastly, in the food and beverage section of the booth, visitors can discover Ri-Move, an APR-certified wash-off material, as well as compostable solutions. In the Smart Labeling section of the booth, visitors will discover the Tageos, part of the Fedrigoni Group, portfolio of high-performance, premium-quality RFID inlays and tags.

Digital Printing

Anytron
Booth 5707


Anytron is introducing the ANY-JET II Plus at Labelexpo Americas. This new version of the ANY-JET II aims to enhance label production in the North American market with its improved features. The ANY-JET II Plus delivers high-speed, high-resolution digital printing, ensuring excellent quality and color accuracy for various label applications. Key features include an integrated laminator for added label durability and precise laser cutting, which facilitates intricate designs and reduces the reliance on traditional diecutting methods, thereby streamlining production and shortening setup times. Supporting both roll-to-roll labels and full-cut stickers, the ANY-JET II Plus is equipped with an efficient conveyor system designed to lower labor costs and production times. Anytron is also showcasing the ANY-PRESS, a 13″ CMYK+W toner printer aimed at smaller businesses. The ANY-PRESS offers a compact, versatile solution for in-house label production.

Primers, Inks, Coatings

Flint Group
Booth 6419


Products to be highlighted at the Flint Group booth include Evolution De-inking Primer and Caustic-Resistant Overprint Varnish (OPV), which enhance sustainability in packaging by improving material yield during the PET bottle recycling process. This range is designed to increase the amount of material that can be reclaimed, increasing the feedstock and availability of recycled material. Narrow web printers will learn about the dual-curing EkoCure ink series, which eases the transition from UV mercury to UV LED curing. This range enables printers to achieve high-performance printing while minimizing their environmental impact and includes the EkoCure ANCORA range approved for food contact materials. Flint Group’s Ultra Clear Dual Cure Coatings are also being highlighted at Labelexo Americas. These coatings can cure under both UV LED lamps and UV lamps containing mercury, simplifying LED adoption without increasing complexity.

Blank Labels

Channeled Resources Group
Booth 1211


Channeled Resources Group (CRG) is showcasing its diverse inventory of Blank Labels, including commodity-sized blank labels for thermal transfer and direct thermal applications. In the booth, CRG will have experts on-hand to discuss their other custom-engineered blank label constructions and sizes. CRG will also promote its pressure sensitive roll label materials. CRG’s Channeled Choice line is a comprehensive portfolio of top-quality papers and films offered at highly competitive prices, CRG says. Leveraging established supply agreements with major US manufacturers, CRG has a substantial volume of core and specialty product off-cuts. They take these materials and slit them down to the desired width, allowing for 5-30% savings off of market pricing. Lastly, CRG’s  Channeled Value line boasts the world’s most extensive inventory of B-grade labelstock and setup materials. CRG transforms these materials into neat rolls, slit, and rewound onto cores based on desired specifications appealing to those looking for materials for hand-applied, cost-conscious end applications or setup needs.

Web Handling, Diecutting

Maxcess
Booth 749


Maxcess is offering Labelexpo visitors the opportunity to discover its latest technologies and developments in diecutting, web guiding, tension control, vision inspection, performance rolls, slitting, winding, and more. Maxcess’ s product highlights at Labelexpo Americas include: RotoMetrics’ new Flexible Die Portfolio has been re-engineered with automated manufacturing processes for enhanced precision and reliability. Superior chrome coating processes offer twice the life and durability vs. the competition, the company states. RotoMetrics Intelligent Adjustable Anvils: From the reliability of AccuAdjust that is automation upgradeable, ready for added RotoAdjust enhancements like job recall and OI interface to fully automated RotoScan, coming in 2025, RotoMetrics offers an anvil solution to fit every press and converter need. Fife Guiding Systems: Maxcess’ high-precision web guiding systems provide a reliable solution for maintaining precise web alignment for optimal converting results. The new Fife SmartDrive Actuator and GuideLine Digital Sensor offer enhanced guiding solutions. Webex Tension Control: With Maxcess’ advanced MAGPOWR tension control solutions, machine and press operators can effectively monitor and control web tension to ensure consistent material handling to reduce waste and scrap.

Automated Production Line

LemuGroup
Booth 832


LemuGroup will display the full breadth of its automated capabilities at Labelexpo Americas alongside partners Martin Automatic and ETI Converting. The collaboration will highlight technology, productivity, and what’s possible in today’s converting landscape. LemuGroup will show its GTU-26 rewinder and the new Ultra Compact Robotic end of line boxing and palletizing system. The GTU-26 system can reach production speeds up to 820 fpm (250 m/m), ensuring a perfect rewind and high production process. But the production line doesn’t end in the rewind unit – the UltraCompact system allows the production process to be completed fully automatically, without stops in each cycle and without the need for any additional labor at the end of the line. Fully integrated, the unit ensures that the entire solution operates synchronously – from roll to pallet.

Presses, equipment monitoring

Bobst
Booth 5601


At Labelexpo, visitors to the Bobst booth can experience Bobst Connect demos showcasing the latest features, including a major update to the equipment monitoring capabilities that provides detailed data insights, performance management KPIs, and job inspection reports. The Digital Master 340 will demonstrate Bobst’s “All-in-One” label production concept with printing, finishing, diecutting and quality control in a single pass. As every machine in the Digital Master series, it features AccuCheck, Bobst’s proprietary inline inspection and calibration system. It also comes with full digital automation on all print and finishing modules, controlled via a single user-friendly interface that offers cloud-connectivity to Bobst Connect and third-party MIS integration. AccuCheck has been updated with new automatic quality inspection setup and job queue synchronization, allowing customers to inspect every single job effortlessly. Calibration improvements include a new color uniformity feature, while advanced color-to-color registration now performs calibration in just 15 minutes.

Adjustable Anvil System

Kocher+Beck
Booth 3209


The GapMaster EM (Electronic Move) will be a product highlight for Kocher+Beck at Labelexpo. The servo-driven adjustable anvil system is touted as the only one on the market that offers adjustments by a rotary dial and digital input with haptic feedback for the operator. The system allows adjustment steps as small as 0.25 of a micron, and it will be on display for the first time, showing the ability to use one HMI control system to operate two GapMasters simultaneously. A selection of K+B industry-renowned flexible dies and precision-engineered magnetic and print cylinders are also on display, along with samples of TecScreen printing plates, which are the perfect choice for the most intricate and delicate printing detail. Kocher+Beck is also highlighting its continuous advancements in diecutting with a new Industry 4.0-ready digital KMS pressure gauge system, equipped with a variety of sensors and offering higher stability under load changes.

Digital Printing

Durst
Booth 3123


Durst North America is showcasing at Labelexpo Americas the brand-new hybrid KJet alongside the Durst Tau RSCi, and Durst’s award-winning Software & Solutions. Making its US debut is the KJet, an end-to-end solution that combines Omet’s dual servo flexographic  printing units with Durst’s RSCi inkjet technology. Modules for finishing and further processing (such as cold foil stamping or diecutting units) can be integrated into the KJet, offering flexibility and a broad application portfolio. In addition, the configuration of the KJet can be tailored to the specific requirements of each customer. The Durst Tau RSCi is designed for an industrial level of productivity. This UV inkjet digital printer offers the highest quality, in the most economical way, according to Durst. Available in printing widths of 330, 420 or 510 mm, the printer is a touted as a productivity workhorse with printing speeds up to 100 m/m. The Durst Tau RSCi can be equipped with the double white feature, increasing productivity when printing with white ink at highest opacity to 80 m/m. Durst Software & Solutions will round out the lineup. The software ecosystem ranges from web shops and online graphics editors to comprehensive workflow and analytics solutions, and ERP/MIS systems, all to help improve and simplify business.

Inspection

EyeC America
Booth 423


Chicago-based EyeC America is displaying its latest product launches at Labelexpo Americas. The focus is on the new EyeC ProofRunner options for AI-based defect classification and the improved EyeC Proofiler DT series. EyeC is also highlighting the newest inline inspection system – The EyeC ProofRunner Highlight. The ProofRunner is being demonstrated along with a rewinder, leveraging EyeC’s partnership with Prati. Two more EyeC ProofRunner systems are on display at Rotoflex Finishing and Converting Solutions (Mark Andy booth 424) and VEMAX Finishing Solutions (booth 423). The modern inline inspection system guarantees fast and precise 100% print inspection for labels and flexible packaging with web widths of up to 1,700 mm. Brand new options for the entire EyeC ProofRunner line are being presented for the first time to the US market, demonstrating the power of AI-based defect classification. Thanks to precise defect classification based on the image content, relevant defects can be identified more clearly and brought to the
operator’s attention.

Primers, Inks, and Coatings

ACTEGA
Booth 711


ACTEGA is presenting samples that demonstrate the quality and functionality of ACTEGA’s SafeShield low migration inks and coatings range, overprint varnishes for energy efficient UV LED printing, and the end products achievable with Signite and ECOLEAF – two ACTEGA technologies that enhance packaging decoration and metallic embellishments. Officially launching at the show, ACTKote UV Wash Off Primer has been formally recognized by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for meeting the highest criteria for recyclability according to the APR Design Guide for Plastics Recyclability. This high-quality primer not only provides the quality ink adhesion needed for shrink sleeve applications, but customers can be assured that choosing ACTKote Primer leads to less waste,  a more efficient use of natural resources, and an increased supply of high-quality post-consumer recycled content.

Chrome Labels

Mactac
Booth 143


With only a few seconds to catch and hold a hurried consumer’s attention, chrome films stand out at the point of sale with a metallic high-end look and give the perception of quality.  At Labelexpo Americas, Mactac is introducing a new and improved Vivid chrome polypropylene prime film, enabling: improved printability – for flexographic, digital and thermal transfer printers; improved barrier resistance to moisture and oil migration, which prevents staining of the label; a premium chrome look that differentiates brands without the cost of foil stamping or metallic printing inks; as well as excellent moisture resistance and metal adhesion. Mactac’s new product offering is made using its vertically integrated network and on unique film coating and finishing assets. The material can be used in food packaging, health and beauty, home and auto care, and beer, wine, spirits and other premium beverages. Mactac will partner with label converter Fortis Solutions Group at Labelexpo and will have a label applicator applying Vivid film labels in its booth.

Transfer Films

Univacco
Booth 1217


At Labelexpo Americas, Univacco is highlighting its sustainable solutions for the label market. From across-the-board PET downgauging initiatives to closed-loop recycling actions to the introduction of transfer films utilizing fully recycled PET, Univacco remains committed to innovation. The company’s shirts for Labelexpo are made from 80% recycled PET and 20% from its own recycled foils. Booth visitors can see numerous examples of prime, shrink sleeve, and in-mold labels decorated with Univacco’s hot and cold transfer films.

Entry Level Machinery

Mühlbauer
Booth 6406


Mühlbauer is showcasing its Entry Level Package featuring two machines. With this package, Mühlbauer offers a cost-effective solution with a compact footprint, allowing to expand the portfolio with ease. The IL 30000 is an easy-to-use machine with a small footprint that operates at high speeds for optimal efficiency. It is reliable for delamination and relamination, and it can also function as an applicator. Its competitive price guarantees a quick return on investment, the company says, and is perfect for businesses of all sizes. The PL light R2R offers efficiency in handling multiple jobs within a single batch. Its low investment and small footprint make it an appealing choice for businesses looking to optimize their operations without breaking the bank. Additionally, the PL light features license-free encoding, ensuring convenience and cost-savings.

Finishing

Grafotronic
Booth 911


Grafotronic is showcasing four machines, including the flagship DCL2 in two different configurations and two versions of the CF2, a compact machine that can be extended in the future. The exhibition includes the CF2 in a haptic configuration, equipped with a flatbed screen printing and a hot stamping module that offers high-quality foiling and embossing. The foil feeding system provides all the required options for embellishment. The ultra-high stamping pressure can be controlled through the electronic pressure control, allowing each corner of the counter pressure plate to be individually adjusted. The module extends dwell time and enables multi-stroke foiling and embossing, as well as single foil and complex multifoil designs in one pass. Grafotronic will also introduce the fully automatic turret: The Grafotronic Infinity. The Infinity turret is designed for producing a wide range of labels, including those printed on delicate, heat-sensitive substrates or using heat-sensitive ink. The Infinity turret features numerous automatic changeover capabilities such as glueless start for clean label separation from the core, roll closure with printed labels, automatic core positioning, and finished roll ejection.

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