Finishing & embellishment

Wave TPS installs Hontec label finishing technology

Akanksha Meena — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 12:30:51 +0000

Wave TPS, printing company located in the heart of Seoul’s vibrant Seong Soo Dong, has further strengthened its production capabilities by installing Hontec DiGiFiNi label finishing converters.

This strategic investment reinforces Wave TPS’s commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative labels to its growing clientele.

The latest installations include:

• One MPX 350 featuring two hot stamping units, one flexo unit, and one flat-bed die-cutting unit, designed to enhance label embellishment and finishing precision.

• Two DiGiFiNi FD350-S units equipped with one S type flexo station for glue killing and glue-side printing, paired with one flat-bed die-cutting unit for efficient and versatile label finishing.

These new machines complement Wave TPS’s existing fleet of three Hontec CI letterpress machines and two Hontec flat-bed die-cutting machines, reflecting a long-standing partnership with Hontec that consistently drives operational efficiency and product quality.

The enhanced setup not only boosts production speed and flexibility but also enables Wave TPS to cater to diverse customer demands with high quality finishing options.

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4 days 1 hour ago

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Wave TPS installs Hontec label finishing technology

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Seoul-based converter enhances finishing capabilities with Hontec DiGiFiNi machines.

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Seoul-based converter enhances finishing capabilities with Hontec DiGiFiNi machines.

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Asia-Pacific

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Creative packaging design for wine industry

Piotr Wnuk — Sun, 16 Feb 2025 23:14:13 +0000

Packaging design must stand out, surprise and, above all, be memorable. Design expertise and creativity are required if packaging and labels are to have that certain something to stand out from the crowd. In an exciting partner project, LEONHARD KURZ and EUREKA have succeeded in doing just that.

Dr Tobias Eismann and Dr Martin Meinel, founders of EUREKA INNOVATION UG, are creativity experts and their research focuses on human creativity and how it can be encouraged. As part of their research, they also discovered that a low alcohol level has a positive effect on creative thinking, as the inhibition threshold drops under the influence of alcohol and people are more inclined to communicate their thoughts and ideas. The start-up founders wanted to translate this insight into a tangible product. The result was a wine spritzer with a special label concept that was realized together with LEONHARD KURZ as a cooperation partner.

Symbiosis of creativity and embellishment technology

KURZ, an expert in surface decoration and design solutions, worked with EUREKA to develop a bottle label and cylindrical outer packaging, which were then implemented in seven different design variants. The theme of creativity ran through all levels of this cooperation project: Two scales are depicted on the bottle label, which mark what the perfect individual amount of the drink is, depending on gender and body weight, in order to stimulate one's own creativity. In this way, the design also creates a bond between the brand and the consumer. The designers found inspiration for the outer packaging in typical whisky packaging, where the packaging is open at the top and fits snugly around the bottle.

The label and packaging designs were implemented in various colors and finished with digital printing. The eye-catching metallization on the labels was created using the DM-UNILINER 2D from KURZ, while the metallization on the outer packaging was created using the DM-SMARTLINER. In combination, the brilliant metallic effects and vibrant colors create a special unboxing experience. While the outer packaging has a colorful finish on the outside, the inside also features exciting texts, decorative design elements and other intricate or large-scale metallization. The digital printing machines from KURZ give designers extensive creative freedom and variability in the implementation of their designs.

Digital printing for outstanding embellishment

Together with its subsidiaries Steinemann DPE and MPRINT, KURZ has launched durable and powerful digital printing machines that enable digital printing on an industrial scale. The digital printing machines, which were also used to finish EUREKA's labels and outer packaging, are characterized by industry-leading efficiency and production speed as well as first-class printing results in just one print pass. The digital printing machines are ideal for new entrants to the embellishment industry as well as those looking to increase efficiency and capacity to achieve higher profits.

With the DM-UNILINER 2D, KURZ is the only supplier on the market to offer the possibility of metallizing uncoated and open-structured papers on an industrial scale, with the patented by KURZ 2D inkjet on transfer technology, with high precision. Thanks to a wide range of colors and metallizations as well as the implementation options for small batches, special editions or larger product series, there are virtually no limits to creative design.

Competent partner for creative packaging

KURZ offers customers a complete package for digital embellishment solutions. In addition to digital printing machines and brilliant digital transfer coatings, this also includes application software and individual design advice. With its technical and creative expertise and a great deal of passion, KURZ is constantly developing its embellishment technologies in order to always offer customers the best possible embellishment solution. In addition to the almost uncompromising feasibility of creative designs, the concept of sustainability also plays an important role. With digital embellishment, no plastic film remains on the label or outer packaging. This means that the EUREKA wine spritzer packaging can be disposed of with the paper waste and recycled without any problems.

The project with EUREKA shows how different perspectives from creative designers and strong partnerships can result in unique packaging designs that offer real added value at the POS.

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1 week ago

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Creative packaging design for wine industry

Short summary

KURZ and EUREKA have developed a packaging concept that is surprising and memorable.

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KURZ and EUREKA have developed a packaging concept that is surprising and memorable.

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Polar unveils latest version of Compucut

Akanksha Meena — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 11:21:50 +0000

Polar has released the latest version of Compucut, an automated cutting program creation system that has been established in the industry for over 30 years.

This new version makes programming cutting programs outside of the high-speed cutter easier and efficient by completely eliminating programming time on the machine.

Compucut enables users to automatically create cutting programs from the CIP 3/4 pre-press files with just one mouse click and transfer them directly to a Polar high-speed cutter. For users, this means zero set-up time at the machine and a significant reduction in waste, the company reported.

Compucut offers a configurable user interface that enables the guided creation of cutting programs. The programs can be created according to a recommended or self-selected cutting sequence, whereby all additional functions of the machine are automatically taken into account and programmed. In addition, the cutting programs can be transferred to several machines, which further increases flexibility and efficiency.

An external program storage system (ESPV) is available for external cutting program management. The new version also offers the option of real image display (N PRO only) and a graphic display of the sheet (optional for N PLUS). The process visualization of the cutting sequence (optional for N Plus) ensures that operation of the high-speed cutter is intuitive and simple for every user.

The programming time on the high-speed cutter is completely eliminated, which leads to a considerable increase in productivity. In most cases, the company claims that the amortization time is less than half a year, while the error rate is significantly reduced. Programs with process visualization make the high-speed cutter operable for everyone.

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1 week 4 days ago

Short title

Polar unveils latest version of Compucut

Short summary

Compucut generates cutting programs from CIP3/4 pre-press files with one click, sending them directly to a Polar cutter.

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Compucut generates cutting programs from CIP3/4 pre-press files with one click, sending them directly to a Polar cutter.

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TS Etiketten installs ABG Vectra AutoSet turret rewinder

Piotr Wnuk — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 22:45:22 +0000

German label converter TS Etiketten has invested in A B Graphic International Vectra AutoSet Glue turret rewinder, marking a significant milestone in ABG’s operations in Europe.

With over 30 years of industry experience, TS Etiketten has built a reputation for consistently delivering high-quality and innovative labels. Operating from a modern 4,000sqm facility equipped with 13 printing machines, the company turned to ABG for its turret rewinder requirements.

The Vectra AutoSet Glue was chosen for its high level of automation, quick job changeovers and ability to handle diverse production requirements.

Andreas Lex, general manager of TS Etiketten, said: ‘We were looking for a new partner to replace our existing turret rewinders. As we have a wide range of products that are produced with these machines, it was important to have someone on our side who offers various options to meet these needs.

‘We recently bought an HDTR (Heavy Duty Turret Rewinder) for the production of rolls with a diameter of over 400mm. The Vectra Autoset Glue is more specialized in a quick job changeover, and it also has an automated mandrel change, which reduces the time needed for a job change.’

The machine’s ability to run 19mm cores was a key factor in the investment, supporting the growing demand for this specific product type. Its automated core loader, quick-change mandrels and glue pump for automatic refilling ensure easy operation with minimal manual intervention, maximizing efficiency and reducing downtime. The Vectra range is compatible with most ABG machinery, either stand-alone or with third-party presses, for a versatile turret rewinder offering.

The Vectra range has been in production for over 30 years, with more than 2,600 installations worldwide. This led to the development of the latest Vectra AutoSet in 2024. This range was developed to increase efficiency with automatic make-ready features.

The Vectra range continues to develop, with recent innovations including a 76mm bowl feeder equipped with built-in sensors for automated loading and a redesigned core hopper that holds up to 400 cores, reducing manual handling. The range is also compatible with ABG Connect automated workflow, allowing full automation and integration with MIS platforms.

Following the successful installation of its HDTR, TS Etiketten ordered a second Vectra, this time an AutoSet with glue. The company plans to replace two additional turret rewinders in the future.

ABG’s German sales manager Dirk Raming commented: ‘We’re thrilled to welcome TS Etiketten as a new customer and provide more efficient solutions tailored to their evolving needs. This milestone not only marks the first Vectra AutoSet Glue sold in Germany but also strengthens our partnership as we support their modernization efforts.’

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1 week 6 days ago

Short title

TS Etiketten installs ABG Vectra AutoSet turret rewinder

Short summary

ABG sells the first sale advanced Vectra AutoSet Glue turret rewinder to a label converter in Germany.

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ABG sells the first sale advanced Vectra AutoSet Glue turret rewinder to a label converter in Germany.

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Europe

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Rotocon to distribute Vicut digital cutting and finishing machines in South Africa

Piotr Wnuk — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 21:07:19 +0000

Rotocon has partnered with Chinese supplier Vicut to bring its digital cutting and finishing machines to the South African market. The collaboration was formalized in September with a visit to Rotocon’s Johannesburg facility.

Vicut’s range of includes the VL-450X (digital laminating and foiling), the VFC90 (digital flatbed DTF cutter), the FC700/500 (flatbed cutter), the CC330/220 (auto-fed card cutter), and the SC-350 (auto-fed sheet label cutter). Among these, the FC700/500 flatbed cutter offers versatile functionalities to the South African market, enabling the creation of custom packaging by cutting both shape and crease lines with high precision. This makes it suitable for small-run, niche packaging or personalized box production.

‘Vicut’s machinery is designed for the graphics industry, making it particularly suitable for smaller print shops or businesses with wide-format printers,’ said Patrick Aengenvoort, sales director at Rotocon. ‘Off-line die-cutting for applications such as vinyl printing, short-run business cards and wedding invitations—along with custom packaging and personalized box production—are just a few possibilities.’

A range of Vicut machines is available for demonstrations at Rotocon’s Johannesburg showroom. Its service technicians provide on-site training and support across South Africa.

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2 weeks 5 days ago

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Rotocon to distribute Vicut digital cutting and finishing machines in South Africa

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The collaboration was formalized in September with a visit to Rotocon’s Johannesburg facility.

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The collaboration was formalized in September with a visit to Rotocon’s Johannesburg facility.

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Africa

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BGM launches 22in inspection slitter rewinder

Piotr Wnuk — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 20:49:58 +0000

Bar Graphic Machinery (BGM) has expanded its portfolio with the launch of 550 iSR, a new 550mm (22in) wide inspection slitter rewinder primarily for finishing self-adhesive labels.

According to BGM, as market trends push printing presses to produce wider web widths for greater economies of scale, the need for wider finishing equipment is often overlooked, typically after most of the budget has already been spent on the press itself.

The company said that the majority, if not all, of 550mm (22in) wide finishing systems currently available on the market are servo-driven, as they are usually intended to support an array of flexible substrates.

BGM’s latest 550mm 550iSR has been specifically designed and developed as a 550mm (22in) wide standard label stock slitter rewinder at a more competitive pricing.

The new machine comes with features typically seen on higher-priced models.

Standard features include a large capacity 1-meter diameter (40in) unwind with integral roll lifting and BGM’s latest GPS gear positioning system that enables the operator to load the master roll into the braking system position with self-alignment and no operator intervention.

The 550iSR also includes the CAP system, which maintains consistent air pressure on the unwind mandrel, offering significant benefits in cases of small leaks.

Other standard features of the unwind include variable tension control, automatic compensation braking, and a digital roll-end facility that is adjustable through the HMI touchscreen.

BGM’s unique rotary sheer cut slitting system incorporates self-aligning driven slitter shafts. Access to the horizontal shafts aids the operator in precisely setting the blades in minutes. At the same time, a siliconized air impression nip roller allows the operator to adjust the pressure, overcoming any adhesion bleed.

An electronically torque-controlled rewind with variable tension control system rewinds from core diameters 19mm up to 152mm on quick-release interchangeable air expanding rewind mandrels, integrated within the rewind unit, is a quick-release interlocked mandrel support facility.

Modular in design, the new BGM 550iSR offers various options, including dual rewind, automatic inspection systems, waste rewind true 100 percent inspection, inkjet, razor unit with venturi extraction and more.

BGM’s managing director, Annemarie Rhodes, said: ‘Following extensive analytical market research, we really did think it was time to launch the all-new 550iSR. Before its launch, which is scheduled for the end of March, we are delighted to announce we have already received orders for two machines.’

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3 weeks ago

Short title

BGM launches 22in inspection slitter rewinder

Short summary

The 550 iSR is designed primarily for the finishing of self-adhesive labels.

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The 550 iSR is designed primarily for the finishing of self-adhesive labels.

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Europe

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Grafotronic and Domino partner on luxury labels at LP2i Étiquettes

Selah Zighelboim — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:44:50 +0000

Grafotronic is collaborating with Domino to combine Domino’s printing technology, including a Lake Image inspection system, with Grafotronic finishing technology, enhancing luxury labels production at LP2i Étiquettes in France.

The hybrid production line designed for LP2i integrates technologies, including glue-side inkjet printing, semi-rotary cold foil and highly efficient semi-rotary die-cutting with a non-stop buffer system for continuous operation.

Additionally, LP2i has invested in an offline Grafotronic finishing machine designed to produce multi-layer labels using in-register lamination and the Revolver Hot Foil Module.

The Revolver Hot Foil Module offers foiling, embossing and speed capabilities while incorporating a revolving foil feeding system for versatile embellishment options. This independent 'printing' step operates separately from other unit settings, with advanced electronic pressure control enabling precise adjustments for consistent quality. The automatic 'initial setup' pressure function ensures faster job changeovers, minimizing material waste and downtime.

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3 weeks 2 days ago

Short title

Grafotronic and Domino partner on luxury labels at LP2i Étiquettes

Short summary

LP2i Étiquettes' production line combines Domino and Grafotronic technology.

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LP2i Étiquettes' production line combines Domino and Grafotronic technology.

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Europe

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Prati joins Konica Minolta for Label Printing Roadshow in Italy

Piotr Wnuk — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 03:23:44 +0000

Prati has been invited as a trusted finishing partner to join the Label Printing Roadshow organized by Konica Minolta Business Solutions Italia, taking place on February 6 and 7, 2025, entirely dedicated to digital label printing and embellishment.

Under the theme ‘Print the difference’, the 2025 edition taking place in Veneto, Piedmont, Emilia Romagna and Campania, with the Italian headquarters of Konica overseeing all organizational details for the first time, will be entirely dedicated to digital label printing and embellishment.

The event will offer an opportunity to explore Konica label printing systems and roll-to-roll digital embellishment technologies. It will showcase the strengths of a complete end-to-end workflow, from printing to label finishing, including die-cutting and protection with flexo varnishes.

Konica Minolta will showcase its AccurioLabel 230 or the newly launched AccurioLabel 400, with the MGI JETvarnish 3D Web system and label finishing.

‘The star of the finishing segment will be Digi Compact, a compact and ergonomic machine providing a high-performance digital finishing line,’ said the company in a statement. ‘Easy to use, highly intuitive and fully customizable, it can combine analog and digital technologies across a wide range of materials, from 12 to 350 microns. This multitasking machine can be configured for roll-to-roll, roll-to-sheet, and roll-to-stack processes in one system. Additionally, its reduced paper path ensures significant waste reduction during setup.’

UPM Raflatac also contributes to the event as a technical material partner.

Attendees will be able to see live printing results on premium labels for the food, wine, cosmetics and industrial sectors and assess how digital systems can complement traditional printing technologies to handle short runs and high levels of customization.

The event will also provide the opportunity to showcase printing labels with white ink in a single pass, achieving high opacity levels and examine digitally embellished samples firsthand.

The registration for the event is open on the Konica Minolta website.

Posted date

1 month ago

Short title

Prati joins Konica Minolta for Label Printing Roadshow in Italy

Short summary

The 2025 edition will take place in four regions: Veneto, Piedmont, Emilia Romagna and Campania.

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The 2025 edition will take place in four regions: Veneto, Piedmont, Emilia Romagna and Campania.

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Europe

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Color-Logic brings embellishment software to IML market

Piotr Wnuk — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 01:42:46 +0000

Color-Logic has launched its Metallic Color System and Design Suite embellishment software for the in-mold label market. This software brings new creative possibilities to in-mold label applications and helps manufacturers and brands create visually impactful packaging.

Color-Logic technology enables in-mold label printers to achieve vibrant metallic colors and eye-catching effects, enhancing product visibility and building consumer engagement.

The Color-Logic expansion into the in-mold label space comes at a time when brands are increasingly looking to differentiate their packaging through premium, high-quality finishes that stand out on retail shelves.

The Metallic Color System provides a range of 924 metallic colors and unique special effects that can be applied to in-mold labeling designs. Brands can now incorporate metallic colors, blends and embellishment effects into their in-mold designs, offering a level of customization and high-end appeal that was previously impossible to achieve.

Color-Logic director of sales and marketing Mark Geeves said: ‘Our embellishment software complements the Color-Logic Metallic Color System, enabling graphic designers to easily add intricate effects, patterns, and gradient designs to their in-mold labels. These features open up new possibilities for branding, creating labels that not only attract attention but also communicate a sense of luxury, quality, and exclusivity. Whether for food, beverages, cosmetics, or household products, Color-Logic solutions allow brands to create packaging that resonates with consumers on an emotional level.

‘We see the in-mold label market as a natural extension of our expertise in metallic color printing. In-mold labeling offers a unique combination of durability and design flexibility, and our technology takes it to the next level. By integrating metallic colors and decorative embellishments into the in-mold label process, we are helping brands elevate their packaging and stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.’

Posted date

1 month ago

Short title

Color-Logic brings embellishment software to IML market

Short summary

The new technology enables in-mold label printers to achieve vibrant metallic colors and eye-catching effects.

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The new technology enables in-mold label printers to achieve vibrant metallic colors and eye-catching effects.

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Polar Group promotes Markus Judel

Akanksha Meena — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:14:34 +0000

Finishing systems manufacturer Polar Group has appointed Markus Judel to head of business development and sales at the Polar Group, effective from January 1, 2025.

By merging the divisions, the interlocking of future-oriented developments for customers will be even closer and the Polar Group will be able to strengthen its technological leadership.

For decades, Polar has specialized in the design of innovative and future-proof products in the print finishing industry. With around 350 employees worldwide at its Hofheim and Shang-hai (China) sites, Polar develops efficient systems for the automation of industrial cutting and die-cutting processes.

Based on his relevant knowledge of the global print finishing market, Judel, who has been with the company since 1989, also wants to intensify the exchange with customers.

‘Our biggest goal is holistic process optimization - from the printed sheet to the finished ship-ping unit. With the greatest possible customer benefit in mind, we focus on achieving an optimum balance between quality and speed,’ said Judel.

Posted date

1 month 1 week ago

Short title

Polar Group promotes Markus Judel

Short summary

Judel, who has been with the company since 1989, takes on the role of head of business development and sales.

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Judel, who has been with the company since 1989, takes on the role of head of business development and sales.

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