Folienprint increases its production capacity

After a construction period of almost one year, Folienprint, a company specialised in the printing and finishing of flexible materials, which forms part of the RAKO Group, Gallin, was able to start operation in its new production hall.

The space was required for two new type “20SIX” central cylinder printing machines from BOBST, one of the leading manufacturers of flexo printing presses. “With the increase in our capacity, we are sending a signal that we are growing and can offer even more flexibility in our order handling,” explained Doris Erhardt-Freitag, managing director of Folienprint.

The new 10-colour machines have a web width of 1,100mm and a maximum repeat length of 800mm, at a maximum production speed of 400m/min. “Sustainability is an important pillar of our company philosophy. That applies not only to our products, but also to the production machines that we employ. When we bought the new machines, it was vitally important to us that they were equipped with state-of-the-art technology for reducing waste and boosting energy efficiency,” added Doris Erhardt-Freitag.

Both of the machines boast the smartGPS graphics positioning system, which was developed by BOBST, and are also fitted with the LEO system (Low Energy Operation). Due to smartGPS, the number of positioning and register errors is reduced to almost zero, while the LEO system cuts energy consumption during productive operation as well as when the machines are in standby. Here, the focus is placed on the ‘main consumers’ of a printing machine: drying, compressed air, drives and ink washing systems. Thus, for example, frequency-controlled fans are used for drying and optimise power consumption as a function of speed. The drive motors are equipped with an energy recovery system and the ink system possesses special energy-saving stirrers. Furthermore, the ink delivery and washing system possesses programmable washing cycles that help reduce solvent consumption.

Print engineer, Karsten Meissner and his experienced team from the print shop were involved in the purchase decision. These practical-users were particularly impressed by the ease of operation and level of automation of the machines.

Last year, Folienprint caught the spotlight with developments to its starsaver laminate films. Customers also value this ecologically responsible alternative to the various aluminium laminates. With this investment in modern printing systems that use less printing material and energy, Folienprint is further confirming its commitment to innovative, environmentally responsible, safe packaging.