Solvent-based Lamination
Solvent-based Lamination
Solvent-based lamination is the process of combining two or more different films to create a packaging material in flexible packaging. This process is accomplished using a solvent-based adhesive.
Solvent-based lamination is commonly used in packaging products that require high barrier properties. For example, it is used to preserve the freshness of food or to protect chemicals from external factors.
The solvent-based lamination process begins with the assembly of the prepared films from the previous step. The films are bonded together using a solvent-based adhesive. This bonding process is carried out using specialized equipment called a laminating machine.
During the lamination process, solvent-based adhesives are applied to the films using a specific roller. Subsequently, the films are passed through special cylinders to bond them together and keep them in place. After the process, the solvent is removed from between the films by ventilation, completing the lamination process.
Solventless Lamination
Solventless Lamination
Solventless lamination is an alternative lamination method used in flexible packaging, particularly preferred in the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this method, solvents are not used to bond different materials together. Instead, alternative bonding methods such as thermal bonding or adhesive tapes are employed.
In solventless lamination, a specialized machine is used to combine different layers. This machine consists of a pressure roller, a laminating unit and a cooling cylinder for the bonding process. The materials are passed through the pressure roller to laminate the lower layer and then they are bonded onto the upper layer using the laminating unit. Finally, the material is cooled on the cooling cylinder resulting in a tightly bonded, rigid and robust laminate.
Solventless lamination offers several advantages, including improved safety by eliminating the use of solvents, reduced environmental impact and enhanced productivity due to shorter drying/curing times. It provides a reliable and efficient packaging solution that meets the stringent requirements of the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Special Varnish Application
Special Varnish Application
Special varnish application in flexible packaging is typically used to create a matte, glossy, textured or metallic appearance on the surface of the packaging. Special varnishes can also enhance the durability of the packaging and improve its product protection capabilities.
Special varnish application is also referred to as a specialized printing process and is customized based on the design of the packaging. This process is often combined with lamination to achieve a higher-quality result. Special varnish application is particularly utilized in the packaging of luxury products within the packaging industry.
Slitting
Slitting in flexible packaging refers to the process of cutting large rolls of packaging materials into desired dimensions or widths. This process is carried out to prepare the packaging materials in sizes that align with the customer’s needs and requirements.
Slitting is typically performed automatically using precise cutting equipment. The packaging material is unwound from a roll and directed into the slitting machine. The cutting machine ensures that the material is cut into the desired dimensions and once the cutting process is complete, the pieces are gathered, packaged or directly sent to the customer. Slitting is an important step in flexible packaging production as it ensures that the packaging is cut to the correct sizes, meeting customer needs, and facilitating the secure packaging of the product.
ColdSeal Coating
Coating Cold seal in flexible packaging is a packaging method that utilizes a cold seal adhesive film. In this method, the bonding process is achieved by applying a cold seal adhesive film to the inner surface of the packaging material. The cold seal film is coated with a silicone layer to protect its adhesive surface. This type of adhesive requires less time and energy compared to hot adhesives. Cold seal films are produced in different thicknesses and sizes depending on the characteristics of the products to be packaged.
The cold seal packaging method is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. By using a cold seal film layer instead of a hot adhesive layer between packaging materials, it prevents external factors such as temperature and humidity from causing damage to the product. Additionally, the cold seal method provides additional protection to the packaged products and is preferred as a cost-effective option.
Perforation
Perforation in flexible packaging refers to the process of creating holes in the packaging material in desired shapes and sizes. This process is performed for various purposes such as ventilation of the package, easy opening, removal of products, or maintaining pressure balance during the opening of the packaging.
Perforation is typically carried out on high-speed machines, similar to most other steps in flexible packaging production. Specialized perforation dies are used to create the desired holes on the materials.
Various technologies are employed for perforation, including mechanical perforation, laser perforation, and ultrasonic perforation. Mechanical perforation is typically done using high-speed cutting blades, while laser perforation utilizes laser beams to create the holes. Ultrasonic perforation, on the other hand, involves the use of high-frequency ultrasonic waves.