FLEXIBLE PACKAGING
The roll can then be tested to see what dyne level has been achieved . We have now automated this process by adding a label dispenser so that different sections of the roll can be treated using differing power levels and each can be clearly identified by its label and measured for the dyne level achieved .
z Does this all have to take place at the Test Lab ?
The Vetaphone Test lab is a unique global facility that allows converters and manufacturers of substrates and inks / lacquers to fully test products prior to committing to commercial production . Photo Vetaphone
Jan Eisby – Not necessarily . A good way of using the Lab facility is to send us a roll of the film intended for production so that we can apply varying levels of treatment to assess its potential for the concept in mind . The customer can then test the differently treated sections of the roll in-house to determine which is right for them to use for the job in question in their own commercial environment . The amount of time and money invested at this stage is insignificant compared with getting it wrong in production – that ’ s what our unique Test Lab facility brings to the market and why we ’ re so proud of it .
z Are there other tests you can do ?
Jan Eisby – We can carry out an Advanced Contact Angle Test that analyses the droplets and gives a highly accurate measurement of the surface energy of the film . This produces a ‘ wetting envelope ’ that tells you if you have chosen the correct ink or adhesive for the material being used for the job . The other capability we have is an Advanced Peel Test that assesses whether the laminate bonding is good or bad . It measures the force required to tear the product apart and details any issues involved .
z How would you summarise your message to printers and converters ?
Jan Eisby – The key element is to know exactly what you ’ re dealing with , so you don ’ t make expensive mistakes in commercial production . The best way to do this is to tap into the vast knowledge and expertise that is available from us here at Vetaphone . We invented Corona surface treatment and have continued to develop the technology – so there ’ s a lot of useful knowledge that we make available .
Whether it ’ s testing new ideas or looking to improve efficiency on existing work , we can assist you with our Test Lab capabilities , and at the same time enrol your employees in our Academy Program , which provides hands-on skills that are directly transferrable to the production floor . We ’ ve always believed that ‘ knowledge is power ,’ and in today ’ s complex and competitive marketplace , the better informed you are , the greater your chance of success ! z
Jan Eisby is CSO of Vetaphone , the pioneers of Corona treatment . Photo Vetaphone
26 Packaging South Asia 5 October 2021