Food & Drink Processing & Packaging Issue 48 2023 | Page 37

Unlike most mechanical methods , laser systems can be combined with other equipment to provide customized late-stage alterations , even to finished goods .
Basic laser system includes a laser source , beam delivery , controller ( software or hardware ) and a power supply .
Depending on the type of laser , the application , and the target material , other components may be needed , including chillers , work piece delivery system , fume filtration / extraction , and vision inspection cameras .
WHAT CAN A LASER SYSTEM DO ? Laser processing systems are highly versatile , adaptable to both stationary and in-motion processing . An excellent selection for OEMs and system architects looking to build flexibility and adaptability into their machines or processing systems for applications such as perforation , scoring , scribing , kiss-cutting as well as through-cutting , marking and coding .
WHAT MAKES LASER PROCESSING DIFFERENT ? While there are many hardware and systematic differences between laser processing systems and traditional mechanical systems , for converting and packaging there are several standout
Cardstock cuttinng / stencil – application example . benefits . Zero-touch processing for instance for sensitive materials and sterile processing , and the elimination of mechanical wear resulting in a reduced inventory costs and consumables . The greatest reduction comes from the lack of production down time , with on-thefly changes controlled through software command and control , reducing setup and changeover costs .
THE VALUE OF A LASER SYSTEM ? Integrating Advanced Manufacturing Technologies ( AMT ), such as laser processing systems can be a significant investment with an extended payback period . However , investing in new technologies is a requirement to stay competitive and brings many benefits , including quick response to dynamic customer demands , greater productivity levels , increased processing , reduced downtime , higher quality products , lower operating costs , and improved operating efficiencies .
BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Businesses are becoming more aware of how their systems and processes impact the environment . No one solution is perfect , however laser processing systems offer users ways to reduce their impact on the environment . Implementing steps to reduce your organization ’ s ecological impacts show your customers , and their customers , you are committed to making a difference . Laser processing systems offer ecological benefits over traditional processing methods by decreasing waste .
Traditional methods of marking and coding utilize inks and / or additional printed labels . Laser systems , however , can apply permanent marks and codes directly on materials and products , eliminating the need for secondary label printing or consumable marking inks . Manufacturing cartons and boxes typically involves production runs in the thousands of units to be cost effective due to the high cost of changeovers and dies . Laser systems can change die patterns on the fly , significantly reducing changeover downtimes and die costs associated with size and pattern changes . Further , the ability to use a wider range of carton sizes reduces wasted materials , packaging space , and shipping costs .
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LASER SYSTEM Laser Lines Ltd has been supplying lasers to the UK market for nearly 50 years . During this time the company has gained considerable experience when it comes to recommending the right laser system for the application . Not only able to supply the laser system , but we can also carry out application trials at our demonstration laboratories to ensure the customer is fully confident they are buying the right solution . In addition , the company supplies many of the accessories associated with running a laser system , and on the rare occasion there is a problem , we have manufacturer-trained technical support staff to resolve any issues .
www . laserlines . co . uk FDPP - www . fdpp . co . uk 37