A B Graphic International

Booth 3223
Finishing
ABG is highlighting a wide range of products at the event. The company’s Non-Stop Converting Line – the NSU 670mm Converter and Vectra Turret Rewinder – for non-stop blank label production are a booth highlight. Meanwhile, the Digicon Series 3 is being displayed for beverage specification, including the Big Foot, Flat Bed Screen – ABG’s flagship machine with even more retrofittable modules. The new SRI3 incorporates new functionalities, too. In addition to the DigiLite, DigiLase is being touted with a new decal option for roll-to-roll, individual pieces and A4 sheets. Finally, the Vectra ECTR – for the ultimate efficiency in turret rewinders, and the RTS Sheeter are being discussed at the show by company experts.
www.abgint.com

ACTEGA

Booth 711
Inks and Coatings
ACTEGA is bringing its latest ranges of product-enhancing inks and coatings to Labelexpo Americas. The highlighted applications on display include labels and narrow web pouches showcasing ACTEGA’s LED UV and water-based flexo inks and coatings. Samples of haptic and visual effect coatings for shrink sleeves are also sure to capture visitors’ attention. These coatings are applied on the outside of the shrink sleeve to give extra impact on the shelf.  The variety of high-value effects achievable include soft touch, matte and raised image. Plus, ECOLEAF is being demonstrated live on-press at the ABG booth.
www.actega.com

Anytron

Booth 5616
Digital Printing
Anytron is displaying the ANY-JET III, the fully digital, one-stop label solution. All the processes – digital printing, laminating, laser cutting, slitting, and matrix removal – have been designed to work together in a digitally integrated platform. Unlike hybrid or conventional systems, ANY-JET III doesn’t require additional time and costs associated with analog tools such as plates or flexible dies. Moreover, the intelligently automated workflow requires no human intervention and reduces operation time.
www.anytron.com

Cartes

Booth 5403
Digital Embellishment
Cartes is set to unveil its newest digital embellishment technology: the Cartes GE363VJL. The company’s digital finishing technology, the Cartes Jet D-Screen, combined with its Laser diecutting system, are being highlighted, as well. Also on display is the new Jet D-Screen module, which has been designed to create outstanding labels garnished by multi-layer effects, spot coating, complex tactile raise volumes and braille printing, as well as detailed foiling and metallic doming transferring. Simultaneously, Cartes is exhibiting two more products with laser converting features, the second solution being represented by the GT360 Series for the conventional embellishment of high-end labels.
www.cartes.it

Colordyne Technologies

Booth 5923
Inkjet Printing
Colordyne Technologies is debuting the 3800 Series WB (water base), a sustainable, water-based inkjet engine utilizing Kyocera mechanical piezo printhead technology, which is ideal for food and pharmaceutical packaging. Expanding its strategic partnership with Kao Collins, the new development leverages the proven high-quality performance of Colordyne’s 3800 Series UV engine design, as well as that of Kao’s LunaJet inks to create an eco-friendly, water-based inkjet product for digital printing on labels, plastic flexible film packaging, and other non-porous substrates.
www.colordynetech.com

Cyngient

Booth 1415
Security Labels
Cyngient and Imageworx are joining forces to unveil security labeling and brand protection products the companies have jointly developed. Labelexpo Americas 2022 marks the global debut of Micro Security Guilloche Labels. Showcasing the advancements of high-speed microscopic flexo security printing – utilizing high definition inks from Cyngient and enhanced resolution printing plates from Imageworx – Labelexpo attendees can view ultra-fine lines printed in decorative, intricate and precise patterns. Also at the show, Cyngient and Imageworx are showcasing an accumulation of various high security inline flexo additions.
www.cyngient.com

Dantex

Booth 6129
Inkjet Presses
Dantex Group is launching its next generation of digital inkjet technology. At the booth, Dantex is planning a big reveal. Dantex representatives will be present throughout the show to discuss the Pico range, consisting of the new PicoColour HD, PicoJet 254, PicoJet 330i, and the flagship PicoJet 330s high-speed model. Pico offers highly productive, affordable label printing for short to long runs, no minimum run quantity, minimal waste, and super-fast turnarounds, making label production fast and easy. PicoColourHD is available with  all-inclusive compact finishing, and all PicoJet models enjoy modular stations. Customers can also benefit from Pico’s SuperWhite, offering inkjet white at an opacity of 92% in a single pass. Dantex is also promoting its extensive range of plate processing and cleaning equipment, letterpress and flexo plate materials, along with tapes and sleeves.
www.dantex.com

Davis-Standard

Booth 1041
Coating Machinery
Davis-Standard is showcasing its portfolio of extrusion coating and liquid coating machinery technology. From scale-up to production, Davis-Standard offers customized polymer film manufacturing and extrusion coating equipment for modern multi-layer film label materials. Davis-Standard is committed to engineering systems that are reliable, environmentally friendly and offer a high return on investment. All equipment is backed by robust aftermarket support, parts availability and customer service.
www.davis-standard.com

Delta ModTech

Booth 3523
Converting and Finishing
Delta ModTech is highlighting the newly updated Crusader Converter running a precision RFID antennae placement demo. A second Crusader Converter features EDGE Laser Technology with barcode reader integration, allowing for on-the-fly cut pattern changeovers. In Domino North America’s booth (6523), attendees can witness a Delta Spectrum finishing machine with an integrated Domino K600i. This demonstration features a seamless integration of Domino’s inkjet technology, coupled with tight tolerance, high-speed diecutting. Engineers are on-site in both booth locations to confidentially discuss your specific application requirements and help you develop a total solution.
www.deltamodtech.com

Domino

Booth 6523
Digital Printing
At Labelexpo Americas, Domino invites attendees to “Experience the Domino Difference” with three digital printing solutions being displayed at its booth: the N730i, N610i, and K600i. Attendees can view educational and informative equipment demonstrations, allowing them to “See more. Learn more. Do more.”  The worldwide, in-person debut of the Domino N730i digital UV inkjet label press is taking place on-stand. The press features 1200 dpi with BITSTAR printhead technology. It is configurable in up to seven colors (CMYKOVW) and able to achieve up to 92% of the Pantone color range. Meanwhile, the N610i is a proven and reliable 600 x 600 native dpi digital UV inkjet label press with hundreds of installations globally. 
www.dominodigitalprinting.com

Durst

Booths 3105, 3123
Digital Printing
Durst Group is showcasing its globally placed Tau RSC technology in Rosemont. Durst is highlighting two printers from its Tau RSC portfolio. First, the Durst Tau RSCi is running in booth 3105. Designed for an industrial level of productivity, this press offers high quality in the most economical way. In addition, Durst is showcasing the Durst Tau 330 RSC E in booth 3123. Designed to evolve with a business, the RSC E is fully upgradeable to grow with the converter. The RSC line is equipped with native 1,200 dpi resolution, offering excellent print quality at all levels of investment. All Durst printers come fully equipped with Durst Workflow and Durst Analytics software, as well as optional Durst Smart Shop software, enabling web-to-print solutions.
www.durstus.com

Eaglewood Technologies

Booth 1046
Anilox Cleaning
Eaglewood Technologies is introducing the Sitexco Label L10 Anilox Cleaning System, based on the award-winning Sitexco Laser Anilox System. This new product from Eaglewood is making its debut at Labelexpo Americas. The L10 System is a slimmed-down version of the company’s laser system, which has been specially designed for the narrow web printer. This is the most sustainable technology available, the company says, as it uses no chemicals, water and generates no waste. The L10 is safe for aniloxes, employees and the environment.
www.eaglewoodtech.com

Epson

Booth 5821
Digital Printing
Epson is showcasing its line of label and packaging solutions, with experts available to answer questions. From proof to press, Epson products have advanced printhead technology, ink, LED lamps, and color management, all designed and built by Epson. Epson’s booth is featuring the SurePress L-6534VW digital label press available with digital varnish or orange ink. Digital varnish offers spot varnish, simulated foiling, and embossing all inline with the label production. Orange ink has a 92% Pantone coverage certification within Delta E of 1.5, using minimum colors to deliver maximum gamut. The L-6534VW models automate both maintenance and checking of the printheads during production without operator intervention.
www.epson.com

EyeC

Booth 1337
Inspection
EyeC, a manufacturer of vision systems for print image inspection, is highlighting its comprehensive range of products at the event. In the area of 100% inline inspection, visitors can expect a live demo of the EyeC ProofRunner. Installed on a press or rewinder/finishing machine, the system guarantees fast and precise 100% print inspection for labels and flexible packaging with web widths up to 5.5 feet. Brand new options to improve inspection performance on challenging raw material and complex surfaces are being demonstrated for the first time, too. With intelligent functions and a more modern, intuitive user interface, the EyeC systems continue to improve operator efficiency. Also on display is the scanner-based EyeC Proofiler DT line, with scan sizes up to 4 x 3 feet.
www.eyec.com

GEW

Booth 427
LED Curing
GEW is bringing its latest UV LED products to Labelexpo Americas. LeoLED, released in 2019, is GEW’s water-cooled UV LED offering, and it’s fully compatible with GEW’s ArcLED hybrid system. It has a 50mm-wide window to give a long dwell time, and is waterproof-sealed for easy cleaning and resilience to dust and ink. The LED array delivers electrical power of 88W/cm and an intensity of 30W/cm2, with minimal light loss due to the direct UV path. GEW says LeoLED is suitable for users who want access to UV Arc and UV LED technology, those with more demanding applications, or those who want to print on substrates wider than 600mm. GEW is also showcasing AeroLED, a fully air-cooled UV LED system released in 2022.
www.gewuv.com

Grafisk Maskinfabrik

Booth 6111
Finishing
GM is featuring the company’s latest products, which provide digital label manufacturers and converters with a wide variety of solutions to ensure high-productivity and long-lasting service within the narrow and mid-web segments. Designed with a focus on automation, high-quality and value-adding, GM’s converting lines feature Industry 4.0 compatibility and cloud-connectivity for future-proofing investments and preparing customers for the next-level in label converting. There are six GM machines running live at Labelexpo, including the new DC350Flex Fast Label Finisher.
www.gm.dk

Grafotronic

Booth 3128
Finishing
Grafotronic is presenting three world premieres for the label industry. The workflow automation suite enables the Grafotronic DCL2 to perform job changes autonomously, handling all job settings automatically. IQ works with a set of cameras monitoring the web and automatically adjusting parameters, taking over all the manual adjustments with a tolerance below +/- 0.1 mm. Grafotronic also promotes “The One” single anvil semi-rotary die, capable of reaching 150 m/m. It can be set up within just 30cm of material with a tolerance of +/-0.1 mm.  Also on show is the HI3 inspection rewinder with the Choose Green program. This features a regenerative system that captures braking energy and converts it into power, making the system approximately 30% more energy efficient. Grafotronic is also showcasing Boon-Tech auxiliary machines.
www.grafotronic.se

Heidelberg USA/Gallus

Booth 3228
Digital Printing
In preparation for Labelexpo, Heidelberg Gallus has made two recent moves: the unveiling of the Gallus One and the launch of its new US Gallus Screeny Demonstration and Production Center, located at the company’s Ivyland, PA, location. The Gallus One has been designed to remove the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) barrier for the adoption of reel-to-reel digital labels with the highest level of automation and cloud-based technologies. Engineered to spark a transformation across the industry, the Gallus One was built on the Gallus Labelmaster press platform. As a 340mm wide roll-to-roll UV inkjet digital inline label press, Gallus One utilizes a host of features to achieve high levels of automation and press efficiency, with enhanced UV inkjet print quality and stand-out print speeds of up to 70 m/m. Along with its new product announcement at Labelexpo, Heidelberg is also showcasing its Gallus Screeny products and services.
www.heidelbergusa.com

HP Indigo

Booths 3226, 3429
Digital Printing
HP Indigo is presenting  the HP Indigo V12 digital press to the public for the first time. The press, rooted in the HP Indigo industry-winning formula, utilizes new LEPx technology to create the new math of label printing, with earning power exceeding multiple flexographic presses, the company says. HP emphasizes that label converters operating this press will outgrow the label market by a factor of three by changing their mindset to “Indigo First and Flexo second.” The company says this allows brands to benefit from an agile and sustainable supply chain without compromising print quality or packaging innovation. HP is running live demonstrations of the HP Indigo V12 and the HP Indigo 6K digital presses at its booth site, as well as different automation technologies, new business opportunities and innovations from the lab.
www.hp.com

Hybrid Software

Booth 3015
Software
Hybrid Software is showcasing its recent acquisition of iC3D by displaying 3D visualization throughout the entire prepress process. The company is joining a number of its Hybrid Software Group sister companies, including Global Graphics Software, ColorLogic, Xitron, and Meteor Inkjet. One of the highlights is the integration of PACKZ and iC3D, allowing Hybrid Software users to visualize 3D packaging in real time, from labels and flexible packaging to shrink wrap products.
www.hybridsoftware.com

Infigo

Booth 3721
E-commerce
Label converters can discover how they can launch a thriving e-commerce brand through Infigo’s “Label Factory” experience. Infigo’s experts will dissect the tools and strategies required to build and scale a successful online business. Visitors to the booth can learn exactly how to launch an e-commerce solution and build an online presence in as little as 90 days. Through a fictional ice cream brand, Scoops, Douglas Gibson, CEO of Infigo, and Greg Young, head of customer success, will dissect everything required for e-commerce success.
www.infigo.net

INX International Ink Co.

Booth 129
Inks
The newest product development on display for INX is INXFlex Contour, a distinctive UV and LED dual cure flexographic ink system that produces shrink sleeve labels for brand owners. It addresses label and packaging industry issues of post-shrink adhesion loss and ink cracking, with excellent flexibility. INXFlex Contour piggybacks off the success of Genesis washable label inks. A recycle-friendly ink system, it recently added a new flexo version and UV curable primer that makes INXFlex Contour washable, too. The company says these bright and colorful inks deliver high performance and can help brand owners meet their efficiency and sustainability goals. Meanwhile, INXShield UV Flexo and GS Slip coatings represent the first in a new line of functional coatings for packaging applications. Attendees also have the opportunity to learn about INX’s hardware solutions. The NW350 is the newest addition to the narrow web series of UV digital label printers. The NW350 delivers single pass output up to 160 fpm on any labelstock.
www.inxinternational.com

JM Heaford

Booth 3712
Plate Mounting
JM Heaford is demonstrating its range of plate mounters. Visitors can see Heaford’s AutoMounter, the system that eliminates operator judgment from the mounting process and reduces press downtime. The Label AutoMounter is configurable for multiple presses and offers options that include pre-register compatibility, plate and tape cutters, and a sleeve exchange unit. The company is also showcasing a semi-automatic FTS model plate mounter. The Heaford ELS model completes the trio of plate mounters at the booth.
www.jmheaford.com

K Laser Technology

Booth 1815
Cold Foil
K Laser is displaying its newest cold foil solutions to the label market at this year’s event. K Laser is also taking those innovations one step further by introducing its new Design Lab that opened in Sarasota, FL, in June 2022. This space has been dedicated to all things cold foil for printers, converters, designers and creatives. Printers and converters can see the latest product offerings while designers and creatives can get inspired with cold foil on labels and packaging. K Laser is looking forward to meeting face-to-face with the industry to showcase what’s been in development since the last time the show took place.
www.klaser-usa.com

Klear Plastic Ventures

Booth 3709
Sleeve Films
Klear Plastic Ventures, a full-service supplier of co-polyester heat shrinkable film for sleeve labels, tamper-evident bands and multi-packing, is highlighting multiple innovations. Its transverse direction oriented (TDO) films exhibit a high uniformity of film thickness and shrinkage. Klear has film options with performance and shrink characteristics for a wide range of container shapes and materials. Its TopGreen film prints well with flexo, gravure, digital and rotary offset processes. These films have low natural shrinkage for easier storage, too. TopGreen shrink sleeve label film has been recognized by The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for meeting or exceeding its Critical Guidance Protocol for Clear PET Articles with Labels and Closures requirements. The film is also available with 30% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content. CO2 emissions are reduced by 19% during the manufacturing process compared to virgin polyester films produced from petroleum.  
www.klearplasticventures.com

Konica Minolta

Booth 5803
Digital Printing
Konica Minolta is unveiling the AccurioLabel 400 5-color label press for the first time in the US, targeting mid- to high-volume label converters, commercial printers, and large brand owners. Important new developments include the ability to expand applications with white toner, extended job opportunities with press runs up to 3,000 meters and improved productivity with print speeds of up to 130 fpm. Other features include resolution equivalent to 3600 x 2400 dpi, prints on substrate widths up to 13″, multiple-touch panel monitors, and Intelligent Quality Optimizer.
www.konicaminolta.us

KTI

Booth 1040
Turret Rewinder
KTI is promoting the MTR Series of turret rewinders in web widths up to 22″ (558mm), roll diameters up to 16″ (406mm), and speeds up to 750 fpm (228 m/m). The MTR Series turret rewinder has four spindles, an integrated dancer for superior web control and PLC touchscreen controls. In addition, a new roll closure system is available with inline print and apply technology, allowing customers to add various product and production information to the roll closure labels, including product codes, lot numbers, job numbers and date of production.
www.ktiusa.com

Kurz

Booth 1817
Label Customization
Kurz is showcasing its DM-Uniliner and the MJETeco. The MJETeco from mprint, a Kurz company, is a standalone UV inkjet product for late-stage customization. The MJETeco handles a wide variety of applications, whether users are printing barcodes or serial numbers for security labels, or complete back labels for wine and spirits. The company is also demonstrating its Digital Metal technology.
www.kurzusa.com

Label Traxx

Booth 5920
MIS Software
Label Traxx is unveiling its Version 9.0 workflow software. In response to ongoing industry consolidation, the Enterprise Edition is being previewed, offering a set of capabilities designed to serve the requirements of multi-site organizations. The company is previewing new CRM features with the Customer Service suite, including Rapid Quoting. The recently-added Inventory Forecast Tool provides the operations team insights and alternatives to respond to supply chain challenges in real-time from its Automated Planning & Scheduling Suite.
www.labeltraxx.com

LemuGroup

Booth 832
Finishing
LemuGroup is exhibiting its newest offering in off-line digital finishing and embellishment: the MA-350 combined with robotic automated roll packaging. This turnkey system will allow for single operator roll-to-sealed box nonstop operation. The LemuGroup system allows for streamlined and efficient digital converting and finishing with one-pass single operator capability, including spot varnishing, heavy duty hot stamping, screen printing, and a window extracting system in semi-rotary technology. This system is the ultimate in 24-hour, on-demand turnaround for converters offering expedited print services for clients. The MA-350 system will also be complemented with a GTU glueless turret rewinder and Lemu automatic robotic boxing system.  
www.lemugroup.com

Martin Automatic

Booth 811
Butt Splicing
Martin Automatic is exhibiting the latest versions of its most popular machines. The machines on working display are the space-saving MBS unwind butt splicer and LRD transfer rewinder.  The MBS supports non-stop unwinding of labels, flexible packaging, shrink sleeves, laminates and light paperboard for the most demanding and changing production environments.     The LRD is a two-spindle, non-stop transfer rewinder that features the same versatility and adaptability as the MBS but for the delivery end of the press. In addition to the automatic transfer, it features automatic unloading of finished rolls and is easily fitted with a slitting module that can also accommodate automated differential winding.  
www.martinautomatic.com

Nazdar Ink Technnologies

Booth 1245
Inks
Nazdar is presenting its diverse range of ink technologies. Experts with years of experience are on-hand to explain the formulations behind its UV and LED flexo, UV offset and UV letterpress inks, water-based flexo, UV and LED rotary screen inks, and UV and LED overprint varnishes and adhesives – and how label businesses can benefit from them. In particular, Nazdar is highlighting its very latest LED curing Nestlé Compliant inks, coatings and adhesives.
www.nazdar.com

Prati

Booth 3529
Digital Finishing
Prati is promoting its DIGIFASTone digital finishing line, which is based on the company’s FUTURA field-upgradable open platform technology. The line is fully digital, from inkjet module to laser diecutting and turret rewinding, and offers the capability to produce short-run promotional labels in the food and beverage, wine and spirits, cosmetics, personal care and home care sectors. DIGIFASTone can produce tactile effects and textures, decorations and textures up to 130μm, and more. The system generates low wastage, reduces setup times, and offers a register accuracy of 0.15mm.
www.praticompany.com

RetroflEx

Booth 6411
Doctor Blades
Retroflex, which began over 30 years ago engineering and building reverse angle doctor blade systems (RADBS), is highlighting multiple products. Through years of on-press testing, the Retroflex RADBS has become one of the most respected doctor blade systems on the market, the company says, especially when replacing older systems or when ordered new on custom Retroflex presses and coaters. Retroflex experts are on-hand in Rosemont to discuss these solutions, along with its complete range of other products.  In addition to the RADBS, Retroflex is discussing its four standard flexo presses, which have been engineered to suit nearly every need and budget. The company also offers coaters that are available in direct gravure, offset gravure, kiss coating and flexographic designs. Meanwhile, standard and custom unwinds and rewinds of all types – from simple single-spindle modules to turret systems complete with automated splicing and transfer capabilities – are a key part of the company’s product range.
www.retroflex.com

rosas Maschinenbau

Booth 6515
Rewind and Inspection
Two of rosas’ new products that are being featured are the Infinity 4K line scan camera and the second-generation Gazelle high-speed bi-directional rewinder. The Infinity 4K camera is being demonstrated on rosas’ Cheetah 500 tabletop rewinder with backside serialization and a TIJ printer for numbering and coding. The Infinity 4K line scan camera is designed for tabletop rewinders that handle web widths of up to 520mm. It features new AI-based print inspection technology, providing label checking capability similar to that of a human operator with decades of experience. The system works with automatic setup software and capabilities such as PDF master check and rollmap with PDF proof report. It can inspect a wide variety of labels, including pharma, wine, natural material, such as wood, in addition to labels with random or holographic backgrounds and reflective surface materials such as gold embossing.  The second-generation Gazelle rewinder is also being demonstrated with the Graph-Tech USA EZ 202 DOD color inkjet head. Graph-Tech is rosas’ local agent in the USA for the Gazelle rewinders.  
www.rosas-maschinenbau.de

Rotocontrol EMT

Booth 331
Finishing
Rotocontrol EMT is returning to Labelexpo Americas with an inline hybrid solution featuring the Rotocontrol DT-340 digital label finishing machine with an integrated Domino N610i label press at its booth. Features of the modular hybrid solution include multiple diecutting stations, rotary flexo and flatbed screen printing units, up to seven colors, including opaque white, with 600 dpi native print resolution, combining the productivity of flexo printing with the flexibility offered by rapid job change digital technology. The N610i integration module incorporates Domino’s automated, i-Tech intelligent technology productivity features for enhanced flexibility and reliability.
www.rotocontrol.com

Schobertechnologies

Booth 915
IML Production
Schobertechnologies GmbH specializes in the development, design and manufacturing of rotary tools, modules and specialty machines widely used in film, foil, packaging, nonwoven and paper converting industries. The company is presenting its RSM410MX-DIGI-VARICUT for the production of in-mold labels (IML). The RSM410MX-DIGI-VARICUT shows the production of high-quality, exclusive metallic in-mold labels being used in markets such as paint, cosmetics, food and storage boxes. The implemented hybrid drive technology combines continuous and intermittent rotary diecutting technology in re-registration mode, thus a wide range of print formats can be covered with a single tool or magnetic cylinder.
www.schobertechnologies.com

Screen Americas

Booth 6423
Digital Printing
Screen showcases the Truepress Jet L350UV SAI, the latest model from the L350UV series with a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi and speeds up to 60 m/m. The Truepress Jet L350UV SAI Series prints in CMYK plus white, blue and orange options. Automated head cleaning is activated by the press of a button. The Truepress Jet L350UV SAI is suitable for prime labels and industrial labels in just about any industry – even those that are highly regulated such as the food and beverage industry.
www.screenamericas.com

Sun Chemical

Booth 749
Inks
Under the theme “Power of Labels,” Sun Chemical is showcasing and presenting its complete portfolio of solutions for the packaging and narrow web tag and label markets. Numerous products are on display. SolarFlex CRCL for shrink and non-shrink applications: The SolarFlex CRCL ink range was developed for UV flexo applications and allows the removal of ink from PET films without a primer, increasing the recyclability of products that use shrink labels. Plus, SunVisto AquaGreen water-based inks are formulated with the highest level of bio-renewable resin content the industry has to offer, providing a high-quality finish brand owners should value. Meanwhile, the MX12 dispenser, an offering from the Sun Chemical Dispenser Program, allows printers to mix only what they need while also maintaining color-matching consistency with no color variations, gain repeatability and .001 lb. (.0005 kg) accuracy. This ink dispensing technology helps reduce waste, costs, and excess ink inventory.
www.sunchemical.com

Tharstern

Booth 3635
MIS Technology
Tharstern is promoting Tharstern Cloud for labels, a new MIS technology built entirely from the ground up to help label converters digitize their business processes and automate their production workflow. It uses an “API First” approach, featuring a fully accessible public API allowing any data within the MIS to be written and read by any external application at any level. Tharstern Cloud is built on cloud-native technologies. This means that, as well as the obvious benefits, such as remote working, mobility, and always being up to date, it also offers enhanced security, availability and almost unlimited scalability. A virtual noticeboard allows the company to share news and promotes employee engagement initiatives, along with a virtual training academy. Following the official launch of its cloud-native software in 2021, Tharstern has spent the last year working with a group of beta customers to create a product it says will transform and modernize the  MIS market for label and flexible packaging converters.
www.tharstern.com

TLMI

Booth 99
Sustainability
Sustainability is a key component of TLMI’s presence at the event. In a partnership with Convergen Energy, TLMI is offering exhibitors a sustainable solution for all exhibit waste, including matrix, flexible films, labels, and paper and film release liners. This service is being offered at no cost to all Labelexpo Americas exhibitors. Green Bay, WI-based Convergen Energy was founded in 2009, and the company produces renewable fuels for power generation facilities, assisting manufacturers across industries in avoiding the sending of waste by-products to landfills. To date, the company has helped to divert more than 450,000 tons of waste by-product, creating a cost-effective fuel option that can be utilized by industrial power plants as a substitute for traditional fossil fuels or in combination with these fuels.
www.tlmi.com

Tresu Americas

Booth 3541
Coating
Tresu is introducing a new variant of the third-generation coating circulator, the Tresu H5i G3 for high-performance circulation with high flow, high viscosity, high speed, high temperatures and high pressure. It is designed to automate special coating applications, and with H5i G3 controlling the water-based, UV, or eBeam coating application, operators can now save resources and exploit the full potential of the coating media for creative designs and strong branding – also with high viscosity and high flow. Used in combination with a Tresu chamber doctor blade system, the Tresu H5i G3 provides full control of the enclosed circulation from the bucket to the chamber. The Control Pressure Technology system prevents the contamination of air inside the chamber, and it eliminates micro foaming and undesired blistering of the print.
www.tresu.com

Tower Products

Booth 555
Pressroom Chemistry
Tower Products, a manufacturer of environmentally-sensitive pressroom chemistry for the graphic arts industry, is exhibiting its full line of pressroom products for the flexographic and offset industries. Tower Products is featuring its SmartFlex line, a series of specialty chemicals tailored to fit any flexographic and packaging pressroom, as well as offset pressroom chemistry. Tower is also highlighting its innovative technology for LED/UV applications, which includes cleaning products for anilox rollers and flexographic plates, as well as fountain solution and alcohol replacements.
www.towerproducts.com

UPM Raflatac

Booth 515
Sustainable Substrates
UPM Raflatac is exhibiting its latest pressure sensitive labeling materials and immersing booth visitors in a multi-sensory forest experience, featuring the company’s sustainable labeling solutions. As part of UPM Raflatac’s multi-sensory booth experience, attendees can see and feel the following: The latest product, The Ocean Action Label, made from ocean-bound plastic waste sustainable films, including UPM Raflatac Forest Film, PP PCR and PET PCR materials; UPM Raflatac RAFNXT+, verified by the Carbon Trust to help mitigate climate change and selected products certified as CarbonNeutral; Renewal Hemp material made with FSC-certified paper and recycled fibers.
www.upmraflatac.com

Wausau Coated Products

Booth 1447
Substrates
Wausau Coated Products is showcasing its Wine, Beer & Spirit and Shelf Marking products, and will continue its efforts to promote sustainable labeling options. This includes FSC-certified materials and products manufactured with up to 100% post-consumer waste and 90% Recycled Polyester (rPET) liners. Attendees can discover beautiful new materials with adhesives designed and built specifically for the luxury wine, beer and spirits industry. Explore WCP’s Ever Opaque line for products that require durable yet perfect looking labels in humid and wet environments. Also on display is a vast array of non-traditional material options that provide that extra haptic element to a label like the company’s 155# Flocked Marquee, 16.7 Mil Twill Natural Cloth, and heavily embossable papers, like its new 90# Bright White Felt.  
www.wausaucoated.com

Wilson Manufacturing

Booth 1229
Die Technology
Wilson is displaying its wide range of tooling in Rosemont, with a focus on its Adjustable Anvil Roll and “scrap removal” tools. The Adjustable Anvil Roll System, using a simple adjustment, allows the customer to cut to a different thickness of liner instead or buying another die. This product is popular right now with the material shortage that all converters are dealing with. Wilson’s Scrap Removal Tools help converters with the big challenge of how to remove the scrap or “slugs” from their parts/labels. Wilson is highlighting several different tools to help the customer achieve this. These tools include air-eject, vacuum, spring plunger and pin eject dies. According to Wilson, the company has focused heavily on service since the onset of the pandemic.
www.wilsonmfg.com

Xeikon

Booth 5703
Digital Printing
Xeikon America, a division of Flint Group, is promoting two technologies for label printing applications: Panther technology for UV inkjet, which is optimal for durable and health and beauty labels, and Cheetah technology for dry-toner applications, ideal for high-quality wine and spirits and food labels. Xeikon is also providing TITON samples, which have been produced using Xeikon’s Cheetah technology. TITON is food-safe and with any additional protective layers provides heat, sunlight, water, scratch, and scuff resistance. Additionally, it does not migrate through substrates and can be readily removed from paper products during the recycling process. While at the booth, Flint Group’s Evolution series of UV-flexo coatings are being highlighted. They allow the substrates and containers they are used on to be recycled without contamination, and therefore be reused more easily.
www.xeikon.com

Xitron

Booth 3015
Prepress Workflows
Exhibiting with sister companies Hybrid Software, Global Graphics Software, Meteor Inkjet, and IC3D, Xitron is introducing its new label and narrow web workflow, “Navigator Flexo Suite: Label,” which is designed as an economical alternative to over-priced prepress workflows. Comprised of the fastest RIP on the market, Mac and PC client access, hybrid screening, advanced and automated step and repeat functionality, and robust trapping tools, the workflow rivals established systems with much higher prices and restrictive functionality, the company says. Also on display is the latest version of Xitron’s popular Digital Front End, Navigator DFE. Used in thousands of installations worldwide, it features an easy-to-use interface, excellent color control with brand color matching, and a browser-based interface.
www.xitron.com

Zeller+Gmelin

Booth 1015
Inks
Zeller+Gmelin is unveiling its newest development in UV/LED prime label opaque white inks. The new ink formula was developed to provide advanced opacity, brighter hues, and smoother lay downs for dual-cure opaque white flood coat applications. With the new ink chemistry, converters can achieve the ultimate in opaque white laydowns in a single pass, thus saving money, time and the environment.
www.zeller-gmelin.com

Durst gearing up for Labelexpo Americas

In preparation for Labelexpo Americas, L&NW sat down with Steve Lynn, director and GM, new markets, Durst North America, to get his thoughts on returning to the event for the first time in four years. Plus, Lynn explains what Durst will promote at the long-anticipated show, which takes place September 13-15 in Rosemont, IL.

Durst is highlighting two of its latest digital printing press innovations. Plus, all Durst presses come fully equipped with Durst Workflow and Durst Analytics software, and optional Durst Smart Shop software, enabling web-to-print solutions. Visitors to booth 3105 have the opportunity to view the vast functionally of the company’s software and receive live demonstrations from Durst’s experts. The hands-on displays will focus on special features such as precise ink cost analysis, exact color rendition, and high-speed ripping.

Since the last Labelexpo Americas, Durst has been quite active in the North American marketplace, especially with the two presses that will be on display in Rosemont. Accu-Label, an Indiana-based converter, installed the Tau RSCi press in 2021. Accu-Label described the RSCi as a real “game-changer” for its business. Meanwhile, Western Michigan Tag & Label (WMTL) expanded its digital printing capabilities, having partnered with Durst to bring the first Durst 1200 dpi RSC E to Michigan.

To learn more, we asked Lynn about the upcoming event:

L&NW: What products will Durst be exhibiting at the show, and what are the benefits to customers?
SL: Durst is excited to exhibit two printers from our RSC portfolio. The 13” Tau RSC E printer, which prints at 170 fpm at 1200 dpi quality, is the perfect solution for short/medium run lengths, and it is upgradeable to faster speeds in the future as a converter’s digital business grows. 

The Tau RSCi, configured with integrated pre- and post-flexo decks, sets the standard for high speed and high-quality digital label production – with printing widths up to 20”, 1200 dpi quality and speeds up to 328 fpm. The RSCi can handle long runs with ease while also providing traditional digital benefits like rapid changeovers, variable data and minimal waste.
 
L&NW: What are you looking forward to most about attending Labelexpo?
SL: It has been too long since the label community has been together for a show. The Durst team is excited to see our customers, the label converting community, industry colleagues and competitors, and to showcase our equipment and celebrate moving beyond some of the unprecedented business challenges we have all encountered over the last two years. It’s going to be a great show, and Durst is proud to be there. We look forward to what will certainly be an exhilarating event. Come see why Durst keeps you printing.

L&NW: What can you say about the way your team has dealt with the challenges of the past couple years? 
SL: We are very proud of how everyone at Durst rose to the challenges presented over the last two years. We provided uninterrupted support and service to all of our customers to ensure they could support theirs. 
We were also able to grow our market share in the North American label market with an excellent portfolio of products that Durst has continued to innovate and manufacture, regardless of supply chain issues that the entire industry faced. We look forward to celebrating this success at Labelexpo Americas.



Digital taking center stage at Labelexpo Americas
Labelexpo Americas 2022 will feature a Digital Embellishment Trail showcasing the latest developments in digital decoration technology, from tactile inkjet coating to digital foiling and laser diecutting.
Companies confirmed as participating in the Digital Embellishment Trail include Cartes, Epson, Konica Minolta, Kurz, Mark Andy, Prati and Xeikon.

Tasha Ventimiglia, Labelexpo Americas show director, says, “The Digital Embellishment Trail will enable attendees to explore the full range of digital decoration options, both standalone and inline, with live demonstrations, sample packs and experts on-site to discuss how digital embellishment can transform a converting business.”

Andy Thomas-Emans, strategic director of the Tarsus Labels & Packaging Group, comments, “After digital printing, digital embellishment will be the next big game-changer for label converters and package printers. Digital embellishment means replacing analog coating, decoration and converting processes with digital. This can range from simply replacing a flexo varnish plate with an inkjet-applied spot varnish, to digital foiling, digitally-applied tactile effects, simulated embossing/debossing and laser diecutting – all fully variable with on-the-fly job change and no tooling.”

“The market has embraced, through time, the possibilities of digital printing. We are at a point where it inspires digitalizing the broader aspect of label production; beyond print looking at embellishing and converting. Through the Digital Embellishment program at Labelexpo, we will explore various options and which solution fits your business best,” says Filip Weymans, VP marketing for Xeikon.

There will be demonstrations throughout the three days of the show. The Digital Embellishment Trail is free to attend for all Labelexpo Americas 2022 registered visitors.

Digital press launches

Labelexpo Americas 2022 is expected to have a number of world premieres of digital press technology, marking a new stage in the transition between analog and digital printing.

HP Indigo has announced the global launch of the HP Indigo V12 will take place at the show. A new rotary blanket technology allows the press to reach speeds of 394 fpm (120 m/m) in up to six colors. HP is positioning the V12 head-to-head with flexo, claiming it has superior print quality and greater productivity. 

Durst says it is challenging 4-color flexography with its Tau RSCi, shown for the first time printing at 1200 x 12000 dpi resolution at 100 m/m on a 20” web in four colors, with flexo units both before and after the digital engine.

Mark Andy is focusing on its traditional mid-market sector customers with the global launch of the DPro Max press, which achieves speeds up to 130 fpm (40 m/m) in CMYK+white. Also on display for the first time at a tradeshow is the Digital Series IQ, a mid-market hybrid press developed jointly with Domino.

For Domino, Labelexpo Americas marks the worldwide debut of the N730i digital press, a successor to the N610i. The N730i is the first label press to make use of the 1200 x 1200 dpi Bitstar printhead technology developed by parent company, Brother. The N730i prints in up to seven colors (CMYKOVW) and can be fitted with pre- and post-digital flexo units. 

Konica Minolta (KM) is unveiling – for the first time in the US – its AccurioLabel 400 5-color label press (CMYK+white), which will be commercially available in Q1 2023. This is the same print engine that powers the Mark Andy DPro Max and is configured with KM’s IQ501 color and registration automation system. Konica Minolta is also previewing its PKG-1300 digital packaging press for printing on uncoated and clay-coated materials using water-based inkjet.

Other digital press suppliers showing new equipment include: Arrow Systems with its water-based ArrowJet Aqua 330; Anytron with an integrated 13″ wide digital printing and laser diecutting press line; Colordyne introducing the 3800 Series WB inkjet engine for printing on non-porous substrates; Dantex PicoColour HD; Dilli Picasso UV inkjet press: Epson L6534VW LED-UV inkjet press with on-board digital varnishing and L-4733AW aqueous inkjet press; Screen Truepress Jet L350UV SAI; and the Xeikon CX500 toner press and PX3300 UV inkjet press.

Ventimiglia notes, “The sheer number of global digital press launches at Labelexpo Americas 2022 demonstrates the importance of this show – the first time label converters have had the chance to see this exciting new machinery up close and in action for three years.”

Thomas-Emans adds, “Labelexpo Americas 2022 is shaping up to be one of the most important milestones in the transition of the labels industry from analog to digital printing. The digital technology on display not only challenges basic 4-color flexo but could also replace the legacy press equipment, which probably makes up 50% of the installed narrow web base.”

In addition to the Digital Embellishment Trail, visitors can also learn more by attending the two-day topical conference program or the in-depth technical master classes covering digital embellishment and self-adhesive label materials.