Xeikon launches new Label Converting Unit series

They come in two models, the Xeikon LCU350 with its new modular platform for added flexibility and scalability – and the Xeikon LCU33, a basic version. The new LCU series is now available for demonstration at Xeikon’s Chicago Innovation Center and Xeikon’s Global Innovation Center, located at Xeikon HQ.  

 

Jeroen Van Bauwel, director of Product Management, stated: ‘A key value of our new Xeikon LCU series is in the different options and levels of investment available to suit the customer’s requirements. As with many of our digital solutions, the Xeikon LCU series is designed to adapt and grow with our customer’s business needs. Through our Xeikon Solution Services (XSS), customized versions and different configurations are possible as the customer’s business grows, depending on the application and volumes required, for example from a basic varnish through to automatic laser die-cut capability and wider web versions up to 20 inches/520mm. The integration of the units in the Xeikon LCU series along with cloud connection offers full automation possibilities for both process and information exchange across all equipment. The Xeikon LCU Series is designed to work inline and offline with both Xeikon’s Panther and Cheetah digital presses.’   

 

With Xeikon’s LCU series, automation is available for processes such as optional automatic turret rewind or optional die plate change. It is also available for job information which allows data transfer to different units, giving transparency and insight to the operator various status and functionality of the converting steps.   

 

The Xeikon LCUs next generation, machine/machine and man/machine interfaces give the operator full insight into the progress of each converting step. Operators can monitor every process from lamination, die-cutting, slitting, winding, hot foiling and screen printing. The varnishing station comes with increased varnishing width and varnishing register and an upgrade to spot varnishing. Xeikon’s new LCU series is accurate in terms of precision for cutting and precise registration.  

 

The LCU series can be expanded with options that are claimed to increase the Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) of an operation. The options include additional flexo stations to avoid change-over between different varnishes, automated laser die-cutting to avoid die-plate change-over, auto die-plate change to reduce setup time and hot foil, and screen-printing stations. The die-cutting can happen semi-rotary at 80m/min to a maximum full rotary speed of 130m/min.   

 

The Xeikon LCU series has built-in cloud connectivity for data collection and remote service. The collected data is translated into key information that helps operators in their day-to-day decisions making. It is equipped with machine/machine interfaces on Xeikon’s Panther 2.0 UV inkjet presses and Xeikon’s Cheetah 2.0 dry toner presses and man-machine interfaces which give additional autonomy to the operator.   

 

‘This is an exciting new development for converting industries. From the converter’s point of view, not only will they now have the latest fully automated, high-quality finishing and embellishing capabilities, but they will also have the flexibility to customize their finishing department and combine a number of different processes to maximize their label applications as well as extend their label portfolio to grow their business. Xeikon is also addressing customers who are on a smaller budget. The Xeikon LCU33 is an entry-level model designed for smaller business operations. It is an attractive investment, upgradeable and market competitive. With our new LCU series, all processes are now connected in one smooth process from file to finish. With the cloud connection, the operators can rely solely on the capabilities of the Xeikon machines.   

 

‘Converters today are constantly searching for new technologies and equipment to enable them to meet the high levels of demand from brand owners for the latest sophisticated and unique embellishments plus high-quality finish to attract consumers. With Xeikon’s new LCU series, they will have all they need to take the next step to full digitalization in label production and manufacturing,’ Van Bauwel concludes.