Jan/ Feb 2020 BoxScore: The Big Associate Issue

A PUBLICATION OF AICC, THE INDEPENDENT PACKAGING ASSOCIATION

January/February 2020 Volume 24, No. 1

THE

ASSOCIATE ISSUE III AICC Associate members showcase the best offerings in the business ALSO INSIDE: Forward Focus

| Members Meeting: Corrugator Best Practices

TABLE OF CONTENTS January/February 2020 • Volume 24, Issue 1

COLUMNS

THE

5

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

126 MEMBERS MEETING 140 THE ASSOCIATE ADVANTAGE 144 THE FINAL SCORE DEPARTMENTS

128 WELCOME, NEW & RETURNING MEMBERS

131 AICC INNOVATION

ASSOCIATE ISSUE III

142 ICPF UPDATE

6

FEATURES

6

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE AICC Associate members showcase the best offerings in the business

8

EQUIPMENT

71

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

82

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

90

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

102 SERVICES

134 134 FORWARD FOCUS Taking stock of the year to come

120 SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

BoxScore is published bimonthly by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, PO Box 25708, Alexandria, VA 22313, USA. Rates for reprints and permissions of articles printed are available upon request. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of AICC. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter at its discretion. The publisher is not responsible for claims made by advertisers. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to BoxScore, AICC, PO Box 25708, Alexandria, VA 22313, USA. ©2020 AICC. All rights reserved.

Visit www.aiccboxscore.org for Member News and even more great columns.

Scan the QR code to check them out!

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

1

OFFICERS Chairman: Jay Carman, StandFast Packaging Group, Carol Stream, Illinois First Vice Chairman: Gene Marino, Rusken Packaging Inc., Cullman, Alabama Vice Chairmen: Jana Harris, Harris Packaging/American Carton, Haltom City, Texas Matt Davis, Packaging Express, Colorado Springs, Colorado Gary Brewer, Package Crafters, High Point, North Carolina Immediate Past Chairman: Joseph M. Palmeri, Jamestown Container Cos., Macedonia, Ohio Chairman, Past Chairmen’s Council: Al Hoodwin, Michigan City Paper Box (RB), Michigan City, Indiana President: Michael D’Angelo, AICC Headquarters, Alexandria, Virginia Secretary/General Counsel: David P. Goch, Webster, Chamberlain & Bean, Washington, DC Counsel Emeritus: Paul H. Vishny, Esq., Chicago, Illinois AICC Canada Director: Rene Annis DIRECTORS West: David DeLine, DeLine Box Co., Denver, Colorado Southwest: Eric Elgin, Oklahoma Interpack, Muscogee, Oklahoma Southeast: Ben DeSollar, Sumter Packaging Corp., Sumter, South Carolina Midwest: Casey Shaw, Batavia Container Inc., Batavia, Illinois Great Lakes: Mike Schaefer,Tavens Packaging & Display, Bedford Heights, Ohio Northeast: Stuart Fenkel, McLean Packaging, Pennsauken, NJ AICC Canada: Terri-Lynn Levesque, Royal Containers Ltd., Brampton, Ontario, Canada AICC México: Pedro Aguirre Martinez, Tecnología de Cartón, Querétaro, México OVERSEAS DIRECTOR Kim Nelson, Royal Containers Ltd., Brampton, Ontario, Canada

DIRECTORS AT LARGE Finn MacDonald, Independent II, Louisville, Kentucky Guy Ockerlund, OxBox, Addison, Illinois Kevin Ausburn, SMC Packaging Group, Springfield, Missouri Nelva Walz, Elegant Packaging (RB), Cicero, Illinois EMERGING LEADER DELEGATES Daniel Brettschneider, CST Systems, Kennesaw, Georgia Cassi Malone, Corrugated Supplies Co., LLC, (SS), Chicago, Illinois ASSOCIATE MEMBER DIRECTORS Chairman: Pat Szany, American Corrugated Machine Corp., Indian Trail, North Carolina Vice Chairman: Joseph Morelli, Huston Patterson Printers, Decatur, Illinois Secretary: Greg Jones, Sun Automation, Glen Arm, Maryland Associate Board Director: Tim Connell, A.G. Stacker Inc., Weyers Cave, Virginia Immediate Past Chairman, Associate Members: David Burgess, JB Machinery, Weston, Connecticut ADVISORS TO THE CHAIRMAN Greg Tucker, Bay Cities, Pico Rivera, California Jerry Frisch, Wasatch Container, North Salt Lake, Utah Pat Szany, American Corrugated Machine Corp., Indian Trail, North Carolina PUBLICATION STAFF Publisher: Michael D'Angelo, mdangelo@aiccbox.org Editor: Virginia Humphrey, vhumphrey@aiccbox.org

SUBMIT EDITORIAL IDEAS, NEWS & LETTERS TO: BoxScore@theYGSgroup.com CONTRIBUTORS Maria Frustaci, Director of Administration and Director of Latin America Cindy Huber, Director of Meetings and Conventions Chelsea May, Education and Training Manager Laura Mihalick, Senior Meetings Manager Patrick Moore, Member Relations Coordinator Taryn Pyle, Director of Education and Leadership Development Alyce Ryan, Marketing Manager Steve Young, Ambassador-at-Large Richard M. Flaherty, President, ICPF ADVERTISING Information: Virginia Humphrey, vhumphrey@aiccbox.org Opportunities: Taryn Pyle 703-535-1391 • tpyle@aiccbox.org AICC PO Box 25708 Alexandria, VA 22313 Phone 703-836-2422 Toll-free 877-836-2422 Fax 703-836-2795 www.aiccbox.org

EDITORIAL/DESIGN SERVICES The YGS Group • www.theYGSgroup.com Vice President: Jack Davidson Managing Editor: Jessica Price Senior Managing Editor: Sam Hoffmeister Copy Editor: Steve Kennedy Creative Director: Serena L. Spiezio Art Director: Kurt Halvorsen Account Manager: Brian Hershey

ABOUT AICC PROVIDING BOXMAKERS WITH THE KNOWLEDGE NEEDED TO THRIVE IN THE PAPER PACKAGING INDUSTRY SINCE 1974 We are a growing membership association that serves independent corrugated, folding carton, and rigid box manufacturers and suppliers with education and information in print, in person, and online. AICC membership is for the full company and employees at all locations have access to member benefits. AICC offers free online education to all members to help the individual maximize their potential and the member company maximize its profit.

WHEN YOU INVEST AND ENGAGE, AICC DELIVERS SUCCESS.

LARGE FORMAT LITHO & DIGITAL SOLUTIONS LITHO LABELS & TOP SHEETS | DIGITAL DIRECT TO CORRUGATE

WWW.PHILIPPLITHO.COM | 800-657-0871

EMBA 175 QS UltimaTM Innovation from the premier class supplier ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

Keep the strength

It’s here. The EMBA 175 QS UltimaTM. The progressive evolution of the unique UltimaTM technology platform.!

The innovative and patented EMBA Non- Crush ConvertingTM technology eliminates nip points, preserving the geometry and strength of the corrugated profile throughout the entire converting process, creating significant savings in paper cost with higher BCT values for a much stronger product, and exciting productivity.!

We will be happy to tell you everything you want to know about smart and competitive box production with EMBA UltimaTM intelligent technology.!

!

EMBA’s World first Non-Crush ConvertingTM technology, with the unique UltimaTM feed unit and the acknowledged Quick-SetTM feature, makes the EMBA 175 QS UltimaTM and EMBA. 245 QS UltimaTM unbeatable.!

The intelligent UltimaTM technical platform is the result of focused collaboration with our customers, who recognize that high machine speed, optimized precision and low, predictable maintenance costs are key requirements for any new Flexo Folder Gluer machine.!

EMBA Machinery, Inc.!

29355 Ranney Parkway!

Westlake, OH USA 44145

Phone: 440-360-7940!

Fax: 440-360-7934!

www.embausa.com

Installation - Condition Testing - Repair - Spare Parts - Upgrades - Rebuilds - Contracts!

Comfort Service Programs!

Chairman’s Message

AICC Associate Members: Your Hidden Growth Asset

A

s you read through this third edition of the Big Associate Issue of BoxScore, I’m sure you are seeing the same thing that I see in these pages. Look closely amid the great equipment, the novel ideas, the clear vision, the new, the tried and true, and the unique. This is much more than a buyer’s guide. It’s a blueprint.

The theme of my chairmanship this year at AICC is growth. It is an inescapable fact that you cannot grow your business without trusted and reliable suppliers working with you. Entrepreneur magazine compiled a list of the unique ways that suppliers can impact your company: • Quality: Supplier components can positively or negatively affect the quality of your product.

• Timeliness: Their timely deliveries and support are crucial to how customers view your reliability.

• Competitiveness: They can give you the one-up on your competition based on their pricing, quality, reliability, technology, and knowledge of industry trends.

• Innovation: Suppliers can make major contributions to your product development.

They live their product more than you do; they’re working to always be on the cutting edge of what they do. The good ones will understand your company, the industry, and needs, and they can help you tweak your new idea.

• Finance: If you’ve proven to be a considerate, loyal, and paying customer, you may be able to tap your suppliers for additional financing when you are in growth mode.

That financing may take the form of postponed debt, extended terms, a loan, or some investment in your company.

AICC has nearly 200 Associate members. Many of them are engaged on committees, serve on the board of directors, and serve as advisors to the chairman. They sponsor AICC meetings and events, bring in new members, and support our growing education program. And they offer top-of-the-line equipment, accessories, services, materials, software, and experience. The blueprint is contained in these pages. Put yourself in a position for them to assist you in growing. They are worthy of your trust.

Buy AICC. Grow with AICC.

Jay Carman President, StandFast Packaging Group Chairman, AICC

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

5

THE

ASSOCIATE ISSUE III AICC Associate members showcase the best offerings in the business

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE, now in its third iteration, is a venue for AICC Associate members to tell the membership at large who they are and what they do. The opportunity to submit a company article was opened to all AICC Associate Members in good standing, and more than 90 companies provided material.

Associate members have always been welcomed in AICC. The Association often relies on them to keep us informed on changes in the market and technology, as expert speakers and trainers, and as contributors to AICC publications, including BoxScore. Associate members also offer significant financial support that allows AICC to continually enhance its member benefits.

AICC’s goals with this edition of BoxScore are to help members see opportunities and gather information and materials that will be helpful in shaping the future of their businesses. We hope that the Big Associate Issue will serve as an effective tool for increasing your understanding of all the amazing products and services at your fingertips. It is a reference book of what is available to independent converters today, segmented into:

• EQUIPMENT • DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES • INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

• SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING • SERVICES • SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

To the converters reading this magazine and using it throughout the year, give your fellow members a first look. Support the companies that support your Association. When you speak with an Associate member, please let them know that you saw their article in BoxScore to allow us to continue to offer this benefit to the membership.

When you invest in and engage with the AICC community, you lay the foundation for continued growth—not just for your business, but for the industry as a whole.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

7

EQUIPMENT  THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Baumer hhs

Quality Control and Corrugated Case Production The control of quality in a Corrugated plant is increasingly critical to ensure that the cases delivered to customers perform reliably in automatic erecting machines and make up accurately. Baumer hhs offers a wide range of proven quality control solutions to manage the quality on Flexo folder gluers and Specialty folder gluers.

8

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

Flexo folder gluer applications use our rugged and reliable non-contact triple valve. The automatic, integrated water bath prevents the glue in the nozzles from drying out so that the first box through the machine is glued correctly to minimize waste and maximize quality.

Optical glue detection options include the cost-effective MLT and our fully featured Xcam. Machines with only a single side glue frame can benefit from our Inverto,

which is capable of top down and bottom up glue from a single glue station.

Inverto can be optioned with integrated glue detection if desired. As our most cost-effective solution, Baumer hhs has introduced a new and very competitive ECO glue system that cuts cost yet still retains our performance advantages of high pressure, non-contact application.

Flexo folder gluer applications can also use our Box Monitoring solutions

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

to control the manufacturer’s GAP as well as slot depth monitoring. Both GAP and slot real time trendlines may be displayed on the screen to provide immediate feedback as the operator sets up the machine for optimal box quality.

Our real-time results are accurate for finished boxes, even after passing through the counter-ejector where it is “spanked” with a squaring device before ejecting the bundle.

Bundle reject signal options can be applied to any of these quality devices, allowing them to interface with most commercially available bundle reject solutions.

Specialty folder gluer options pair our proven high pressure non-contact glue application with our Xcam camera solution to scan for glue, anti-glue, skew, folded flaps, print and other targets. Our wide view application places the cameras out of harm’s way and reduces the need to reposition the QC cameras during a setup change. Fast and easy QC setup is accomplished via the large format touch screen. Defects may be sprayed for manual removal from the product stream, or optionally interfaced with an ejector for fully automated removal.

For more information on how Baumer hhs can improve your quality, contact us!

EQUIPMENT

Chris Raney – Baumer hhs Corp. Chris Raney became the President of Baumer hhs in February 2015. He leads the North American organization supplying high-quality extrusion glue and quality-control equipment to the market.

Chris Raney President Baumer hhs 10570 Success Lane.

Dayton, OH 45458. USA Phone: 937-886-3160 Cell: 937-287-9030 craney@baumerhhs.com www.baumerhhs.com

Xtend³ New solutions for increased productivity

baumerhhs.com

0320-190401_Bhhs_Ad_Xtend3_177.80x107.95mm_En.indd 1

01.04.19 15:03

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

9

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Baysek Machines, Inc.

B

aysek Machines, Inc., is embarking upon 25 years of service as the leading provider of fully automatic, Nick-Free die cutters to the corrugated converting industry.

Baysek was incorporated in the village of Amherst, WI, in February of 1995.

Currently headquartered in the neighboring village of Nelsonville, Baysek engineers, manufactures, markets and services rotary anvil–flatbed die cutters designed to conquer some of the most challenging die cutting tasks around the globe.

Innovative Excellence Baysek’s unique nick-free, multiple-out die cutting method is engineered to

10

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

accomplish jobs difficult or impossible to achieve on traditional rotary and platen die cutters. Simple to complex shapes are shear cut, fully automatically stripped of waste, accurately counted and neatly stacked via one operator utilizing a user-friendly computerized touch screen.

One Operator Process The Baysek method begins with load end suction cup assemblies picking and placing sheets onto the reciprocating flat die. Registration suction cups on the lead edge of the die hold the sheet to the die. The die is situated on a 5-degree angle and is compressed between two rotary anvils. The top

anvil is protected with a semi-hard cutting sleeve. Die knife penetrates the sleeve for a crisp and angel hair free cut. Suction cups within each die form securely hold finished pieces in the die as it passes beneath a pneumatic waste removal vacuum. Small to large waste pieces are fully automatically extracted and directed to recycling. Unload suction cup assemblies pick and place clean, 100% perimeter cut finished pieces, onto shipping pallets on the unload table. Accurately counted and stacked finished units exit the machine ready for shipping prep completion. The one operator method increases product quality and production while decreasing manual labor.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Say YES to Difficult Requests Baysek welcomes challenging die cutting inquiries. Rarely does Baysek say no, as there is generally a solution for most all challenges presented. Expand capabilities of servicing existing customers while attracting the attention of new customers with Baysek.

Trade-ins and Reconditioned Equipment Baysek accepts trade-ins of older machine models when upgrading to new Baysek die cutters. Older die

cutter models are reconditioned and offered back on the market for continued production.

Commitment to Service Baysek cares for machines around the globe with 24-hour access to service technicians who are committed to keeping customers running at maximum potential.

Baysek’s affiliate company, Baysek Machines & Engineering, is located in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, and services all of Europe. Parts and

EQUIPMENT

consumables are stocked for customer convenience at both Baysek locations.

Visit Baysek’s newly designed website for machine model information.

Die Cutter Models: C-170, EL-150 Load Turners: I-6072, IR-6072 Baysek’s knowledgeable and friendly team stands ready to assist with more information.

Phone: 715-824-5300 Email: sales@baysek.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

11

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Bobst North America How BOBST has helped General Converting, Inc., to boost its incredible customer offering even further Every company in a service industry says they put the customer first, but only some truly live and breathe that philosophy. General Converting, Inc., (GCI) is one of those. The company — which has grown from three people with a single press in 1982 to 65 employees working in 122,000 sq. ft. of space filled with state-of-the-art equipment today — is known for not letting anything get in the way of its ability to respond for its customers.

David Mickiewicz, the Sales Manager at GCI who has just celebrated his 20th year at the company, is the embodiment of this philosophy.

“We have a responsibility to produce a high-quality product that exceeds our customers’ demands and performs on their equipment day in and day out,” he says.

“And the foundation of that starts with our fantastic people. Nobody has titles internally here — we don’t want titles to get in the way of getting the job done. We work as a family, with genuine partnership and teamwork. We are all fully bought into the company ethos and we all truly care about our customers. Schedules change constantly and emergencies happen daily and we are set up to respond quickly and efficiently. The biggest reason clients come to GCI is for peace of mind — they know that our packaging will be on time, perform well on their automatic equipment and have consistent quality from run to run.”

Quality from the start GCI operates in the folding carton industry predominantly on behalf of

12

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

confectionary and food companies, but also has a hand in other industries including electronics, cosmetics, automotive and pharmaceutical. It has the highest level of SQF (Safe Quality Food) Certification available, achieving a perfect score of 100. The company has offset printing equipment with capabilities to print up to 8 colors plus aqueous or 7 colors plus inline UV. “We believe in building quality into our products from the start which, as well as having the best people, means having the best materials and equipment available,” says David.

A key source of equipment for GCI is BOBST, one of the world’s leading suppliers of substrate processing, printing and converting equipment and services for the folding carton industry (as well as the label, flexible packaging and corrugated industries).

BOBST and GCI have enjoyed a partnership for even longer than David’s tenure at the company.

“When I began my career with GCI in 1999, the owner of our company, Bob Ruebenson always talked about how reliable our BOBST equipment was and I can attest that 20 years later that still holds true,” he says.

“Having three CER 102s gave us the flexibility to interchange jobs between machines if one were to experience an issue, which is rare, and meant we had minimal downtime.”

Taking die-cutting and gluing to the next level Sometimes thriving companies can be victims of their own success. One of the biggest challenges for GCI since adding new presses a few years ago, was a backlog in die-cutting. The presses were printing consistently at 18,000

sheets per hour, which well outpaced the die-cutting equipment.

“As we experienced a yearly growth in 2018 of 20% — our largest ever — this became a situation we needed to remedy ASAP,” says David. “We chose to go with BOBST again due to the speeds that could be achieved in both production and make ready, longevity of the equipment and excellent service and support.”

The company decided to purchase MASTERFOLD 110 A3 — the world’s most productive folder-gluer — and MASTERCUT 106 PER, the most highly automated and ergonomic die-cutter on the market.

MASTERFOLD 110 A3 produces straight-line, auto-bottom and 4 corner boxes at the highest speeds possible in the industry, enabling a drastic increase in GCI’s output. The machine includes SPEEDWAVE 3, the fastest way to run crash-lock boxes, reducing the company’s set-up times on auto-bottoms, reducing set-up times through reduced tooling and streamlining their new operator training workflow.

The MASTERFOLD line includes EASYFEEDER 4 and the CARTONPACK 4 automated packer.

CARTONPACK 4 is now automated, reducing an operator’s repeat set-up by half by physically moving elements of the machine into place.

Meanwhile, MASTERCUT 106 PER is a top of the range machine, delivering unmatched productivity thanks to fast, uninterrupted production and exceptionally short set-up times, while also providing superb quality of the finished product. Also, MATIC allows the operator to save 25% to 30% in make-ready times. When a repeat job is recalled, the machine sets itself automatically.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

MASTERCUT achieves a high percentage of jobs running at full speed thanks to the Power Register system, which virtually eliminates feeder stops because of registration errors, leaving customers to benefit from the maximum running speed of 11,000 sheets per hour.

So, how have the new machines worked out for David and his team?

“Adding the new machines has really helped to reduce the previous backlog,” he says. “We have seen increased speeds in both our die-cutting and gluing departments, allowing us to respond to customers’ demands quicker and help us to become even more flexible. We have always been known in the industry for our quick turn time, but this

EQUIPMENT

has allowed us to respond even faster to customers’ ever-changing demands with the utmost quality. We couldn’t be happier.”

888-226-8800 www.linkedin.com/posts/bobst_diecutter-foldergluer-leadinginnovation-activity-6602610115122077696-_4e0/

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

13

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Equipment Finance Corporation

E

quipment Finance Corporation has provided long-term, fixed-rate financing for new and used Paper Converting machinery since 1993.

Our product offerings include financing of up to 100% of new machinery project costs with amortization terms of up to 15 years. Additionally, EFC can provide loans for 100% of the cost of used equipment, including rigging, shipping & installation costs with terms of up to 8 years. Our programs include early prepayment, additional annual paydown and term adjustment options.

These programs allow borrowers to take advantage of the low monthly payments of long repayment terms, while having the options to shorten the loan term later, make additional principal paydown or prepay the loan prior to the end of the contract term. Therefore, you can have low payments without being locked into a long-term commitment.

Investment in new equipment is an ongoing requirement for corrugated operations in order to satisfy customer demand, improve production speed, increase capacity & efficiency and reduce unit cost. Unfortunately, the cost of

14

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

new and used machinery continues to rise. EFC’s almost 30 years of industry knowledge and experience allows us to offer qualified clients longer repayment terms plus financial flexibility not available through commercial banks or bank leasing/finance companies.

In addition to providing loans for newly acquired equipment, we can provide debt refinancing to reduce existing loan payments, fix floating rate debt or reduce your higher-rate debt. Unlike bank lenders, our financial terms and structures are set based on the parameters which best serve the needs of each individual borrower, not a regulatory agency. With our historical knowledge of the resale value of packaging equipment, our credit requirements are also much more flexible than those of other institutions. We do not unduly burden clients with blanket asset liens, restrictive loan covenants and personal guarantees as are typically required by banks and other lenders. You’ve worked hard for many years to build a strong, successful business. We recognize that and provide lending terms which you deserve based on your financial strength and time in

business, not terms determined by federal bank auditors.

While repayment terms and structure flexibility are extremely important, so is interest cost. EFC offers fixed rates which are equal to or less than that of commercial banks, bank leasing & finance companies or other financial institutions serving the Packaging Industry. Our large financial services volume allows us access to funding at below market rates which we can then pass on to our clients in the form of lower rates, but with the attractive long-term, flexible repayment plans which are not available through regulated banks and bank owned capital and leasing companies.

We would be happy to refer you to industry colleagues who we have assisted in the past. They can advise how EFC has helped them grow their business and improve their bottom line and how we can do the same for you.

Ed Gargiulo Executive Vice President ed@efc-finance.com 770-714-0662 Office: 800-469-1082

You’ve invested years of your blood, sweat and tears in building your successful business. You’re not ready to retire, nor do you want to sell. You want to continue growing by investing in new machinery, but you don’t want to feel forced into making borrowing decisions based on onerous terms from traditional banks that can put the future of your business at risk.

You’ve earned the luxury of choosing financing that doesn’t penalize but rewards your success.

EFC offers longer term, fixed rate financing — 7, 8, 10, 12 and 15-year amortizations — and: • NO Loan Covenants • NO Blanket Asset Liens Typically, traditional banks require both.

At EFC, we work for you in ways banks and other financing companies do not.

Contact Ed Gargiulo to find out how: 800-469-1082 x13, 770-714-0662 or ed@efc-finance.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Fujifilm Carrying a New Tune Located just 50 miles south of Nashville sits Lewisburg, Tennessee—a small town defined as much by its quaint backyards and front porches as it is by its industries and farmland. And not unlike any town in any other part of the country, Lewisburg is changing.

Being a short drive from the country music capital of the world has its privileges. Music halls. Wineries. Craft breweries and distilleries. Each has created a number of new opportunities for companies like Southern Carton, a solutions company that specializes in packaging.

Founded in 1977 by Jim Kennedy, Southern Carton has evolved into a highly recognized company with a state-of-the-art facility. In a time when things can change on a dime, the family owned and operated, third generation business continues to find new ways to serve its community. Today, Southern Carton is led by Jim’s son, Dave, CEO, and grandson, Conner.

One of the resources helping take Southern Carton in a new direction is the recently purchased Onset X3, with white ink channels, which is capable of printing in excess of 9,600 square feet per hour (180 beds/hour). The Onset X3 features 3 x CMYK ink channels, plus the choice of white or orange. “We’re looking for more and more and more opportunities because the Onset X3 is so versatile,” Dave says.

“It’s a great selling feature in that we can print white and our competitors cannot.”

Part of the Onset X3’s allure is the FUJIFILM Dimatix drop-ondemand printheads that are perfect

16

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

for the production of high volume, quality images onto a wide variety of media. Jetting a 14 picoliter drop size, the printheads provide a good balance of quality and volume to meet client demands.

And to ensure maximum throughput, it is compatible with Inca’s flexible automation system, which offers Southern Carton the choice to operate in manual or semi-automated handling from the same configuration.

The Onset X3’s intangibles are helping Southern Carton get to where it couldn’t before. “We’re trying to hit the country music industry,” Dave says.

“We’re also looking at wineries and craft breweries. We are targeting people who traditionally don’t want to order 1,000 of this and 2,000 of that; they want 50 of this and 100 of that. The Onset X3 is a game changer for us.”

Up to speed, and beyond ...

One of the biggest fans of the Onset X3 is digital coordinator Eugene Peek, who Dave says eats, sleeps and breathes everything surrounding the flatbed printer. “He had to get up to speed quickly, so he ran with it,” Dave says.

“He needed to learn it, and he did. We picked the right man for the job.”

Right now, Southern Carton is printing on glass and a lot of acrylic. And right in line with its company mantra: “We don’t just want your order, we want your business,” Southern Carton now can give its customers what they want.

“We can take an order today and finish it in one day, provided we have the material/substrate on-site,” Peek says.

Take a recent job it completed for a client that wanted to put images on a fiberboard. The job originally was riding an eight-week production timeline with a vendor in China.

Unfortunately, the job was continually put on backorder.

But when the client turned to Southern Carton, they stepped up.

Thanks to the Onset X3, Southern Carton turned the job around in a week, and with much better quality.

“The client paid the same price it paid its vendor in China, so it was a win/ win/win.”

The Onset X3 also has helped Southern Carton grow from its regional base. “That has been a great selling feature for us,” Dave says. “[For example] somebody in San Francisco could ask us to run a job that might typically be done 150 to 200 miles from its plant.

With the high speed output from the Onset, we can ship to clients anywhere and everywhere.”

Southern Carton recently completed a rush order—200 corrugated sheets printed in the same day. “Our customers have now come to expect quick turns,” Dave says. “It’s now a precedent.

That’s the way we built our business.

Our clients know what we can deliver on the box side, so they expect us to deliver on other output, too.” contactgraphics@fujifilm.com 800-877-0555

Planning for the future is one of your most important jobs. Selling your business, succession planning, equipment decisions and expansions require the best advice and strategy. We’ve been providing Business Planning Services to the independent converter for over 30 years. Need to make a big decision? Call us now.

STILL the Industry Experts 580 Sylvan Avenue, Suite M-A Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 (201) 731-3025 • Fax: (201) 731-3026 info@klinghernadler.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Geo. M. Martin Company

LBX Scrubber Stackers … Continuing the Legacy of Innovation!

In 2012 Geo. M. Martin Company introduced an innovative new system that delivered superior (and unmatched) sheet control and a new and unique scrap removal process coupled by an easy to use automatic setup system that assured proper, consistent and quick setups.

With over 100 systems in use, the LBX Scrubber® stacker has changed converter performance expectations from what was 32 MSF per hour to an average 80 to 100 MSF per hour. Top performers are running as high as 200 to 400 MSF per hour.

Continuing our legacy of innovation, Geo. Martin has introduced three new products that address converters’ challenges of making “better boxes,” providing more consistent products and enhancing safety and ergonomics for operators.

LQC™ – Length Quality Control system is engineered for quality conscience converters, especially those serving

18

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

automatic packing lines where a short sheet can result in jams, stoppages, downtime and product waste. LQC scans the sheets and initiates a feed interrupt when non-conforming products are detected, allowing the operator to manually pull the sheets. When used with the SQC or SQX, sheets can be automatically ejected at full speed.

SQC™ – Sheet Quality Control system automatically removes sheets from the stacker’s board line at all rated press speeds. This fast acting process can be integrated with the LQC system for consistent on-the-fly ejection of single or multiple sheets. Sheets will be ejected to the stacker’s operator side for safe and easy quality control sample pulls. SQC can also create web gaps for a stack or bundle change, thus eliminating “double inking” issues.

SQX™ – Sheet Quality Extended system combines SQC sheet ejection features with additional scrap removal capabilities. Placed behind an LBX

Scrubber, the SQX further enhances the Scrubber’s already superior scrap removal capabilities to deliver virtually scrap free boxes (well under 1%) making it ideal for scrap critical operations such as auto packing lines. The SQX can also be placed on new or existing Select® and/or ValuStak™ stackers allowing them to take advantage of enhanced scrap removal and blank ejection capabilities.

The Quick-Break™ III (QB-III) is the latest model of Geo. Martin’s high performance nicked bundle breakers.

The heart of the bundle line system, the QB-III features significantly faster cycle speed, soft stop/start break and pull cycle, and unique multi-function “gapless” upper platen which eliminates edge roll on small bundles.

Dan D’Angelo Vice President ddangelo@geomartin.com 510-652-2200 www.geomartin.com

BECAUSE LBX Stacker with Scrubber Technology ®

Nobody ever set out to be LESS productive.

1929

2019

Virtually Scrap Free Loads using Scrubber Technology

Geo. M. Martin Company • 1250 67th Street Emeryville, California 94608, United States 510.652.2200 • Fax 510.652.6447 • email: info@geomartin.com ROTARY DIE CUTTER STACKERS & PERIPHERALS

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Haire Group Continued Growth Headquartered just outside of Chicago in Merrillville, IN, Haire Group has been bringing machinery solutions to the corrugated industry for over 40 years and counting. In recent years, Haire Group has become a major player in the industry, and the trajectory of Haire Group’s business continues to rise.

“We have experienced what can only be described as explosive growth,” said Keith Umlauf, Executive VP of Sales. “We are slated to wrap up 2019 with another record year of sales.”

Jeff Quinn, VP and General Manager, said, “Making sales all over North America is great, but what really gets us excited is that we have seen a growing number of customers coming back to us for their second or third APSTAR. That tells us that customers are seeing the value and quality of the machines, and we are doing our jobs to support them along the way and provide great service when needed.”

The Solutions Haire Group’s staple machinery solutions — the APSTAR Rotary Die Cutter and Flexo Folder Gluer — have taken the industry by storm. In fact, Haire’s APSTAR is now the industry leader in top and bottom printing — a response to an increased demand for inside and outside the box capabilities from ecommerce customers.

With more standard features than any other like machine in the market, the APSTAR RDC offers exceptional flexo printing and consistent production rates, allowing Haire customers to make higher quality products for their end customers.

With precise and intuitive controls in all aspects of the machine, each section of the APSTAR has been designed to be “best in class.” The RDC can also easily

20

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

expand with market opportunities. The PLC accuracy and computer-controlled repeatability are delivering print-to-print registration accuracy through as many as seven in-line flexo sections.

Haire’s APSTAR Flexo Folder Gluer provides such versatility and efficiency that customers are making less capital investments in multiple machines.

Instead, the APSTAR is doing the heavy lifting as customers work to replace two or more older machines with the new FFG and keep high productivity. In fact, the APSTAR Flexo Folder Gluer helps companies significantly reduce their total cost of ownership. With machine parts and maintenance coming in well under competitor pricing, companies are reaping the rewards in their bottom lines.

Impressively, the APSTAR FFG has the ability to do many things well in one pass, including top and bottom printing and die cutting. The APSTAR FFG also features a movable center head on the slotter, making it a great fit for clients needing to run trays for their customers.

Support In addition to the success of the APSTAR machines, customers are raving about Haire’s pre-installation, hands-on training at Haire Group’s New Machinery Showroom & Training Center and DFA, Haire’s service arm.

Another year of record sales results in team growth. DFA has added several factory-trained technicians to the team to help support the machine installs and maintenance. Additionally, DFA’s onsite parts department has quadrupled in size.

The expansive inventory allows DFA to drop-ship parts immediately in the event of a breakage or keep them on hand for just-in-time delivery for a planned maintenance outage.

“We are humbled at the growth DFA has seen in just the last year and by the feedback of our customers,” said Bill Heintz, DFA Chief Operating Officer.

“We consider ourselves their partners, and we take pride in keeping them up and running at optimal levels at all times.”

Looking Forward “There have been a lot of exciting changes at Haire Group,” said Quinn. “I couldn’t be prouder of our team, and when I look at the future, I know we are poised to do great things in the industry for our customers. I’m glad they know that when you work with Haire Group, you can always expect more. And we deliver on that. Every time.”

To learn more about Haire Group, please visit hairegroup.com or call 219-947-4545.

Jeff Quinn, VP and General Manager Jeff has been with Haire Group for more than 30 years. He has been invaluable in his role of shaping the company’s infrastructure to accommodate the additional DFA support personnel, both in the office and in the field.

In addition, Jeff is a longtime member of AICC and TAPPI. He recently took the post as the new Chairman for the Corrugated Packaging Council (CPC) TAPPI Board. “In the world we live in today, communication technology is always changing, so our challenge is to keep everyone at our company in clear communication with customers.

Whether involving office personnel or DFA techs in the field, we want clear and consistent interaction using the latest devices.” Jeff is also an avid golfer and remains active in leadership roles at his church.

Jeff Quinn VP & General Manager jquinn@hairegroup.com 219-947-454

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Inspire Automation

I

nspire Automation stands ready to handle your full plant projects and critically important upgrades. Through the combined brands of Systec Conveyors and Automatän, Inspire Automation offers a broad array of capabilities and the widest product offering in the industry.

Systec Conveyors’ extensive product line allows customers to fully integrate a completely automated system. Recent projects have included equipment and devices such as the FastPal, a multiline pallet dispensing system, and the fully automatic Pallet Loading Device.

Integrated with the Visual Automatic Positioning System (VAPS) for strap placement, the system will scan a bar code on the load tag, query your plant scheduling system, and automatically position the load to apply straps precisely where needed. The FastPal robotic pallet dispenser selects and positions the proper pallet and loads the pallet automatically, without operator intervention, at speeds that keep up with the higher demands of today’s corrugated converters.

The combination of the Automatän AutoStak robot with the Systec Faststak unit-load former and other Systec conveyor products, creates a seamless robotic palletizing solution. The Faststak, all electric load former features user-friendly operator controls, aluminum cookie sheet, lighter backstop, Stable Stack conveyor bed, and attention to safety details. The variable frequency drive (VFD) allows the speed to be adjusted for unstable loads and raised for high speed applications.

The Automatän AutoFeed robotic pre-feeder continues to gain popularity in the industry and serves as an ideal solution for customers looking to utilize space more efficiently, increase safety,

22

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

and reduce maintenance time and costs.

Setups take 30 seconds or less and the AutoFeed operates at maximum machine speeds. Downtime tests prove that the AutoFeed runs with virtually no downtime. Sheet plants can take advantage of the robot’s ability to separate multiple stacks delivered on a single bottom sheet, something that conventional pre-feeders have difficulty with.

Conveyor safety and access is another big focus for Inspire Automation. The conveyor Safewalk is the ideal solution for a low-cost pedestrian crosswalk across roller conveyor. The Safewalk can be dropped into any center-belt driven roller conveyor regardless of manufacturer.

Easy-to-follow installation instructions allow your own maintenance team to install in a couple hours.

Inspire Automation continues to bring new products to the industry such as the Systec all-electric Bundle Separator. This device allows customers to gain greater output from their rotary and platen die cutters by running multiple outs for greater die utilization. The Bundle Separator is 100% electric and requires no plant air. Again, a fully integrated system with conveyor and unit-load former, to handle the product from the die-cutter to finished unit is by far the most cost-effective way to increase production of a die-cutter.

Perhaps our most exciting new product offering is the Advanced Production Inventory Control System (APICS). This system automatically routes material from the corrugator into work-in-process staging and retrieves the material for delivery to the converting center without operator intervention. More than just a simple routing and tracking system, the system interfaces with both the corrugator scheduling software and

production scheduling systems and using sophisticated algorithms, makes intelligent decisions based on available conveyor space, and when an individual order is to be run. The system provides real-time 2D and 3D graphical displays allowing production managers to quickly identify where an order is located and the machine it is to be run on. Real time, effective production reporting allows managers to make intelligent decisions as it relates to the production floor.

Visit us online at: WWW. INSPIREAUTOMATION.COM, call today: 800-578-1755, or email sales@ inspireautomation.com.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Global Boxmachine

The Global KL Partnership Expands offerings with Shinko Acquisition Global Boxmachine and KL (Keshenglong Machinery Manufacturing Co.) joined forces almost five years ago with what seemed like a simple idea… explore the rapidly growing demand for inside/outside printing. We started with our very first machine at the SuperCorr 2016 trade show in Orlando, Florida, where we successfully demonstrated the first K-7io (inside/outside) Rotary Die Cutter. Since then we have installed 20 machines throughout the United States and have expanded the line to include Flexo Folder Gluers (both gear and Servo driven) and Jumbos.

In July of 2017 the Global KL partnership expanded its capabilities when KL completed the acquisition of SHINKO Manufacturing of Japan. Shinko, an 83-year-old company, specializes in ultrahigh graphics printing for corrugated and High-Speed Quick-set Fixed Flexo Folder Gluers. As one of the Japanese pioneers of the Quick-set machine, Shinko offers proven technology to enhance the offerings of the Global KL Partnership.

Currently, the Global KL partnership offers four different types of equipment;

the K7, io capable Rotary Die Cutter, the KLS io capable Flexo Folder Gluer, the Shinko High Speed Flexo Folder Gluer and the K1x io capable Jumbo.

The K7 Rotary Die Cutter is where we began and continue to achieve success with both standard and io configurations.

We have several variations, from a simple one color to a 3 + 3 (3 inside and 3 outside) running Kemi. Our size offerings are unique to today’s marketplace with machines from 66" x 94" to large as 66" x 190". Our largest K7 to date is a 66" x 145" 1+5 RDC with Slotting.

The Shinko Technology is rapidly being integrated into the KL products. The KLS Flexo Folder Gluers are a hybrid of KL/ Shinko design. This combination yields a machine that is capable of printing multicolor inside printing out at high speeds (up to 18K per hour) with the speed and accuracy of the Shinko Folder Gluer and Counter Ejector. We now have several of the KLS machines installed and running.

The Servo driven Shinko Flexo Folder Gluers can run consistently at speeds of up to 22K per hour and can be equipped with up to 6 colors (with no large vacuum belt to restrict the number of colors).

Traditional Vacuum transfers give way to

Shinko’s patented “CBS” transfer system.

The system uses significantly less energy which translates to substantial savings.

The Shinko machine has a quick-change die system for regularly used dies such as hand holes. The Shinko folder gluer/ Counter ejector has servo driven graduated form rollers and servo driven belts to control box squareness. The counter ejector is also servo driven and uses a pusherless system.

Lastly, we are happy to introduce the K1X, our JUMBO series. This is a very robust machine designed for sizes from 86" x 190" to 98" x 220" and capable of inside/outside. The printer slotters are available as top printers, or bottom printers. The inline configuration is bottom print with up folder and a downstacker/ counter ejector. KL has developed a niche in the marketplace with over 100 Jumbo printer slotters sold. Global and KL together have worked to develop K1X for the North American Market incorporating features to meet the demands of the Jumbo box business.

KL and Global have formed a strong bond over the 5 years and look forward to answering the calls of the current market and meeting the demands of the future.

James Schiffman President Jimmy@boxmachine.com 847-949-5900

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

23

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

JB Machinery

JB Machinery – Controlling, Improving and Reporting on Your Process!

JB Machinery maintains a goal of introducing innovative products for corrugated sheet-fed flexo printing that achieve these key factors. First, to allow converters to produce the most consistent high quality products. Second, to achieve the highest speeds with a minimum of waste and downtime. Third, to minimize operator intervention.

The range of industry leading products for drying, curing, continuous plate cleaning, plate washing, ink management and reporting are all manufactured in Neenah, Wisconsin. JB products and customers have won many industry awards for innovation and quality.

The ColorDry™ XL 3000™ range of IR dryers are the standard with most global equipment manufacturers. Our installed base is now over 2500 systems in 56 countries. The safest IR dryer available today, XL 3000, includes the Sentinel™ and LESD sheet detection systems, VisionMaster® 1080p camera systems and RFID reset switches for ease of operation. Newly designed lamp reflectors and improved air management make the ColorDry XL 3000 dryer the most efficient dryer in the industry today, enabling converters to run at the highest possible speeds.

24

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

ColorCure® ColdUV™ with TurboBoost™ now offers the fastest UV curing times in the industry with speeds in excess of 50% of prior performance.

On new installations, or as an upgrade to existing JB UV systems, TurboBoost has met with great success and strong endorsement from our customers.

KleenPlate® 3.0 auto plate wash and plate wash eliminator is now fully automated with minimal set-up time required and the ability to wash plates “on-demand.” Imagine being able to wash all plates in use in just 3-5 minutes total with virtually no wasted product!

InKomand® ensures consistent printing results by controlling ink temperature. This stabilizes both pH and viscosity. Controlling ink temperature also minimizes the need for chemical adjustments. When it is necessary, the new “AUTO DOSING” function makes the adjustment without any operator intervention. The moment the system senses pH or viscosity moving out of the pre-determined range, the AUTO DOSING function injects the appropriate solution to maintain ink specifications for higher quality print, faster drying speeds and a vast reduction in waste.

JB’s latest innovation, KomandCenter™ provides a platform that the operator

can both control and report on all of the above products from a single dashboard and touch screen. Operators have full control over operation, adjustment and maintenance of all installed JB equipment. Every function is just a “touch” away. All job data can be stored for future retrieval. Reports can be instantly output to management on every aspect of the printed job.

KomandCenter also features Power Sharing and Power Monitoring modules so power can be used to maximum efficiency and effect. Power consumption during a print run can be isolated and used for future job-costing exercises.

Lastly, JB Machinery is excited to mention, “We are planning to unveil a game changing product for all facets of the corrugated finishing market at SuperCorrExpo. Watch future announcements in 2020.”

We thank all AICC Members and Associate Members for their continued support and we look forward to another successful year ahead!

Dave Burgess Sales Director – The Americas dburgess@jbmachinery.com 1-203-544-0101 www.jbmachinery.com

NOW with Auto Plate Washing in just minutes!

KleenPlate 3.0

®

Optimized Productivity & Superior Quality    

KleenPlate 3.0 ®

NEW Auto plate wash in minutes Printing defect elimination Minimized color variation Optimized productivity & superior quality

®

More than a wash to your bottom line

+1-203-544-0101 | Fax +1-203-544-0202 | 9 Sasqua Trail | Weston, CT 06883 USA | www.jbmachinery.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Kolbus AutoBox

K

olbus AutoBox (formerly known as British Converting Solutions) is and has been at the very forefront of box-making for many years. The AutoBox is a machine that has been a staple in innovation and development. From its foundations, the machine has grown into the robust box-making machine it is today. Created with ground-breaking technology, Barry Tabor states, “Over the years, the machines have evolved and today they incorporate the very latest in motion control technology, contributing to a rugged and reliable range of machines with maximum up time and requiring minimal maintenance.”

An increasing number of businesses are demanding high quality printed boxes as a marketing tool. Autobox offers the Digi-Print. This machine gives you superior quality, servo controlled, one or two color inline flexo printing, and the Entry level single color inline digital printing

26

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

from its younger sibling, the Digi-Lite.

This Modular machine has add-ons to provide additional feeding, stacking, advanced box cutting and die-cutting to reduce waste.

There are hundreds of box options at your disposal. Standard machine E Flute to Double Wall. Heavy Duty upgrade E Flute to Triple Wall. Provide stunning RSCs From Mini 3" wide to Jumbo 102" wide x unlimited length. Intelligent line cuts result in Quick Set times and faster run times. No die forms required for your OPFs. Sheet plants from all over the world WILL benefit from this high quality, high performance powerhouse and its modules. In the States alone, there are numerous companies running autobox machines. Its quick-set no tooling interface allows you to easily switch between short and long run, while reaping all the margins.

The short to medium run sector of the box business enjoys some of the highest gross profit margins that a Box Plant can achieve.

A reduction in plastics usage has seen a boom in corrugated box usage. Growth of e-commerce has increased demand for boxes to help to offset the impact on our environment.

Kolbus USA and Hycorr LLC sales team are on hand to assist you with your sales inquiries. Professional sales and service team offer a one year parts warranty provided as our standard.

Contact us today.

Kolbus America, Inc. 812 Huron Rd, Suite 750 Cleveland, Ohio 44115 Office: 216-931-5153 Fax: 216-931-5154 www.kolbus.com Email: Neal.Horrigan@Kolbus.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Zünd Zünd: Digital Cutting at an Industrial Level ZÜND BHS150 BOARD HANDLING SYSTEM DELIVERS INCREASES IN THROUGHPUT AND PRODUCTIVITY

Since its introduction in 2018, Zünd’s fully automated Board Handling System BHS150 has been a tremendous success. Capable of processing 1.5m stacks, materials up to 4" thick, and maximum processing speeds of 2.8m/9.2ft per sec., the system delivers unprecedented non-stop productivity and throughput, especially when paired with the Zünd dual-beam D3 cutter.

Customers are reporting significant reductions in production time and cost, along with the ability to attract more business with larger and more economical short runs. The D3 system can accommodate 3 different tools

(e.g. cutting, creasing, perforating) on each beam, and automatic file retrieval via QR code further enables efficient, non-stop cutting even if the stack of uncut materials consists of multiple short-run jobs.

Digital cutting at an industrial level.

1.5 m Contact Zund America for details and scheduling a demonstration.

28

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Why Zünd?

Engaged for more than three decades in the development, manufacturing, and worldwide distribution of modular, multifunctional digital cutting/finishing equipment, Zünd offers several lines of digital cutters for graphics, packaging, and other demanding industrial applications. The G3/S3 and dual-beam D3 are highly adaptable finishing solutions for custom & prototyping to high-volume digital production environments. For packaging manufacturers, Zünd’s state-of-the-art cutting systems can accommodate a complete palette of specialized tools for processing all commonly used packaging

materials, including protective foams up to 2" and 4" thick (depending on beam height) and 10' wide. Zünd Cut Center, Zünd’s end-to-end digital workflow suite, ensures simple, efficient operation and reliable, non-stop productivity that can be monitored on-site or remotely via Dashboard. With features such as the new fully automated, stack-to-stack Board Handling System, robotic pick & place, tandem operation, intelligent or even one-shot register-mark capture, and touch-free file retrieval, Zünd can provide customers with the most efficient digital workflow solutions tailored to their specific requirements. Every component of Zünd’s modular systems

EQUIPMENT

is geared to maximizing productivity and adapting to ever-changing digital cutting/finishing needs.

Zünd offers a unique combination of fully automated material handling and powerful digital cutting capabilities—the key to digital cutting at an industrial level!

For more information and to schedule a personal demonstration at our brandnew demo center in Oak Creek, WI, please contact: Infous@zund.com 414-433-0700 www.zund.com

The Board Handling System BHS150.

infous@zund.com T: 414-433-0700 www.zund.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

29

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Alliance Machine Systems International LLC

Intelligent Productivity from Alliance The efficiency of any corrugated converting machine is defined by the technologies that feed the blanks and take away the finished boxes or die cuts. For over 40 years, Spokane Valley, WA-based Alliance Machine Systems International LLC has improved customer performance and productivity.

Momentum continues to build for automation of U.S. corrugated production lines as technology has become faster and more reliable. Alliance has successfully automated some of the fastest lines in the world. Double kicking, breaking, and twin box slitting (TBS) and increased line speeds continue to increase the throughput of the finishing machine. To meet these increased productivity levels, the line automation has to be specifically engineered for the product mix and plant layout.

Mark Duchesne, President of Alliance, says, “We continue to automate

30

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

corrugated box production lines around the globe. We offer the fastest, most reliable, and best-supported feeding, palletizing, bundle processing, and stacking systems for the corrugated box manufacturer.”

Alliance continues to broaden the capabilities of the automated palletizing systems with the introduction of the Raptor XR RDC, which has been retooled to handle unstrapped rotary die cut bundles. The Raven robotic load former has also been developed as a lower cost offering for existing 50-inch flexo folder gluer lines where an investment of an entire new high-speed line is not needed but a 10–15% increase in productivity would be beneficial.

Alliance understands the value of long-term productivity to its customers and has structured the products and company to deliver that value. Once the equipment is installed and commissioned, the Customer Care team is

chartered with keeping the line running at peak performance over the lifetime of the equipment.

Alliance has an installed base of over 14,000 machines worldwide and takes pride in its excellent customer support.

From start to finish, Alliance provides layout collaboration, application expertise, productivity audits, retrofits, parts, service, and training.

Free online training is now available to customers through Alliance’s new Skills Builder video platform. Visit www.alliancellc.com/training for more information or to register.

We look forward to sharing more new developments in 2020.

Dave Ahrendt Sales Manager Dave.ahrendt@alliancellc.com 509-842-5131

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

C&M Conveyor

T

oday’s corrugators and converting equipment are running at higher speeds to produce more MSF per hour, with quicker roll change, faster setups and higher value-added work. Being a connected enterprise enables a plant to leverage today’s fast-paced technology where success depends on automation and productivity.

At C&M Conveyor we are doing our part by providing new and improved material handling equipment, such as our mesh ball rotator and bundle conveyors, to keep things moving in today’s corrugated plants. Our mesh ball rotator conveyor provides a rollerless surface that utilizes a modular ball-belt and integrated worm gear driven rotational disc.

Our mesh ball bundle conveyor allows our customers to achieve transfer rates in excess of 20 bundles per minute and gives them the ability to side-shift, right-angle transfer in one or two directions, and rotate and load build in a smaller footprint. It improves efficiency at the load former by grouping bundles

together side-by-side, rotating orientation and reducing operator interface.

At C&M we offer our Computer Inventory Management Systems (CIMS) for full plant automation.

CIMS communicates with the customer’s scheduling system and has decision-making software to move material based on the schedule. It also enables strapping systems to interface with scheduling systems and offers scrap tracking capabilities.

Being a connected enterprise means having smart devices that offer data collection and analytics; predictive maintenance which can prevent 75% of motor failures; and offer baseline comparison, improved diagnostics and automatic notification.

Automatic strapping systems from C&M Conveyor offer higher throughput @ 240-plus loads per hour. The systems feature high speed rotation with C&M’s ball belt rotator. It includes an option for visual strap system for application of custom straps to actual load geometry.

The unit utilizes a camera to scan the load and has larger capacity to store customer straps. The unit also features an automatic dunnage applicator and has the ability to interface to scheduling system for finishing data.

C&M has enhanced roll stock efficiency with automatic delivery of rolls, automated butt-roll retrieval and FIFO delivery of rolls.

Equipment from C&M enables automation of a plant’s shipping and distribution because these systems are connected to the plant’s schedule and trailer loading. Our equipment offers load tiering and rotation for optimal staging efficiency; loads are pre-staged per plant customer requirements; and AGV trailer loading adaptability is offered. All C&M systems can be tied to the plant’s inventory and scheduling systems.

Randy Grube President rgrube@cmconveyor.com 800-551-3195

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

31

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EAM-Mosca

Maximum Reliability and Throughput for Bundling and Unitizing EAM-Mosca, the leader in the corrugated industry for bundling and unitizing solutions, has been developing systems to meet market demands for greater speed, faster changeovers and increased uptime for over 35 years. From the base TRC-6 bundler line to its fully automated SQ4 Tandem system and the company’s unitizer line, EAM-Mosca has an offering that meets customer requirements and integrates with the latest flexo folder gluers, die cutters, bundle breakers, slitters and material handling systems for maximum line productivity.

32

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

Sonixs Sealer: Mosca’s proprietary ultrasonic sealing heads have transformed strapping systems. The sealer design provides maximum durability, is self-calibrating, quiet, emits no smoke or fumes and leaves no messy residue.

Sonixs welds either PET or PP within broad tension ranges and can easily switch between the two strapping types if package requirements change or should resin prices fluctuate dramatically.

Bundler/Squaring Integration: The TRC-6 bundler features Mosca’s latest technology in precision sealer head and track design, including the proprietary Sonixs sealer. The TRC6-SQ4 squaring

bundler incorporates a backstop and squaring panels to greatly improve bundle appearance. A single TRC6-SQ is capable of squaring and strapping up to 24 bundles per minute. Where higher production or redundancy is required, the SQ4 Tandem offers a 4-zone solution: dual zone entry conveyor and SQ4 bundler, a second dual zone conveyor and a second SQ4 bundler. The SQ4 tandem system is capable of squaring and strapping up to 36 bundles per minute. All Mosca bundlers come with upstream and downstream interlocks as well as other integration options.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Unitizers: The CTR is a high speed, high performance, all-electric, three-headed unitizer. It has a peak throughput of 220+ loads per hour and features Mosca’s Sonixs unitizer strapping head that has proven to be a highly reliable and low-operating cost device over its eight-year operating history. The CTR’s popular options include our innovative advanced platen safety system, MoscaTrak™ diagnostic system, internal turntable, pallet lances and custom paint, and was designed for the high-throughput requirements found in many American box plants. EAM-Mosca also offers the CTE all-electric unitizer which is available with the aforementioned options, but has the additional opportunity to install a fourth strapping head. All EAM-Mosca unitizers are effectively designed to run 9mm PET strapping.

To learn more about any of EAM-Mosca’s productivity enhancing strapping systems, please call us at 800-456-3420, or email us at info@eammosca.com.

Randy Wright Vice President Corrugated Industry Sales randy.wright@eammosca.com 800-456-3420

EQUIPMENT

SQ4 Tandem Bundler

Proven Performance in Demanding Applications •

Outstanding Reliability. Maximum uptime enables you to get the most out of your production lines.

•

Industry Benchmark Speed. Remarkably fast ultrasonic Sonixs heads have been proven in high-throughput plants for over a decade in both bundlers and unitizers.

•

Time Saving Options. Add Dual Coils with Automatic Changer to your bundler for fast coil replacement; Unitizers can include MoscaTrak for measuring performance, our Advanced Platen Safety System, and much more!

EAM-Mosca Corporation . 1-800-456-3420 www.eammosca.com info@eammosca.com 1-570-459-3426

Excellence in Strapping Solutions

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

33

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

G.F. Puhl Trim and Dust Collection Systems, Stepping into the Future RECENT INNOVATIONS

The last eighteen months have been a time of great progress for G.F. Puhl and our customers. These new developments make it easier than ever for companies in the corrugated box and display industry to meet their productivity, safety and revenue goals. Here’s a recap of the most recent innovations to improve your awareness of the baler, trim and dust collection system to help you manage your business.

System Controls options are continuing to grow and improve with connectivity being the fastest growing segment within the controls. With Cellular, VPN and Ethernet connectivity, the system can be viewed from virtually anywhere and it can also be connected to the production machine controls to reduce the downtime in the event of a jam.

Laser Scanning/3D Cad: If you have a tight space that needs to hold additional equipment, we can now laser scan the room in 3D and load that image

34

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

into CAD for the optimum engineered solution for fit.

Enhanced Website. In April 2019, G.F. Puhl launched a new website featuring updated content, more photos and a contact link to better serve you. You’ll want to check out our technical library where you’ll find blower performance tables as well as other technical specifications on G.F. Puhl cyclones, switch valves, floor sweep shredders and more.

User Manuals are now on USB Drives.

No more need to hunt for the book or a CD drive. The USB content is indexed and can easily be uploaded to your plant’s server.

COMPLIANCE UPDATES

Fall Prevention. Since 2019, all new ladders over 24' in length now require a fall arresting system. By 2030, all ladders extending over 24' in length will require retrofitting a fall arresting system. According to OSHA, with a fall arresting system, a ladder cage is not required. However, Puhl will be supplying BOTH a fall arresting system and a cage for ladders 24' in length or greater.

The fall arresting systems require that

the users have a fall harness with a front mounted D ring and a carabiner for the fall arresting system cable.

Noise. If nearby residents are complaining about noise generated by your system or you are concerned about noise complaints regarding a future system, G.F. Puhl can help. We now have an excellent resource for computerized noise studies, one that is equipped to assist with presentations to local governments regarding permits, planning and noise ordinance compliance. We can also connect you with state-of-the-art offerings in upgraded sound suppression equipment.

Ready to find out how these innovations can benefit you? Give G.F. Puhl a call today!

Gregg Puhl President and Owner G.F. Puhl 240 Airport Road Gallatin, TN 37066 615-230-9500 gpuhl@gfpuhl.com sales@gfpuhl.com www.gfpuhl.com

Turn Trim Waste into Revenue

Follow us on LinkedIn

Puhl custom designs systems to meet your needs.

• Moving to a new facility? Puhl has experience moving entire plant systems all while minimizing down time in BOTH plants during the transition.

• Below roof AND above roof systems custom designed to meet your needs.

• New and Remanufactured Equipment (balers, blowers, separators, filters and more). Our Remanufactured equipment includes a warranty and offers significant savings.

• NFPA and OSHA compliant systems designed by our NFPA trained engineering team.

• Space saving blower Pogo Stick stands keep the load off of your ceiling and reduce the footprint to give you more storage space.

• Puhl now offers Laser 3D scanning of baler areas for complex installations to accurately fit large, capacity increasing equipment into and alongside your existing system.

• Dust Briquetters, Certified Explosion Isolation Valves, Flame Front Diverters and more to control dust.

• PLC Touch Screen Controls with Real Time Pressure Balancing and Real Time Remote Monitoring available on your smart phone or computer.

Balers • Shredders • Trim Collection Systems • Dust Collection Systems • Cyclones • Trim Separators Spiral Duct • Used Equipment • Filters • Briquetters 240 Airport Road | Gallatin, TN 37066 | 615.230.9500 | FAX 615.230.9590 | sales@gfpuhl.com | www.gfpuhl.com

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Hitek Equipment, Inc.

Hitek Equipment Can Increase Efficiency and Bring Down Operating Costs Efficiency and lower operating costs have always been areas of focus for plants across the industry. Hitek has a long history of working with customers to increase efficiencies and decrease operating costs by providing equipment focused on these two factors.

The Marumatsu Flat Bed Die Cutter is one machine to rapidly increase your productivity. Many customers spend countless hours setting up their machine to run a small order where

36

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

profits are marginal at best. With the Marumatsu Diamond, Hitek increases efficiency by decreasing the set-up times down to 3-5 minutes. We achieve this by using a chaseless die and having no stripping dies. By eliminating a chase and stripping dies the set-up times are drastically reduced and so are the operating costs. Some customers have reported saving as much as 60% on tooling costs alone. The Marumatsu Diamond is the short order king that can bring profit back to short and medium orders.

The Lian Tiee Rotary Die Cutters and Flexo Folder Gluers are built to keep operating costs low while maintaining higher levels of efficiency. Lian Tiee’s initial concept behind their equipment was to create easy to operate equipment to limit the amount of down time, all while maintaining low maintenance costs. Customers who have a Lian Tiee in their plant report having much lower maintenance and operation costs than other machines they have owned in the past. Let Hitek and Lian Tiee help you save time and money by bringing in a simplified version of operation.

These savings in efficiency and operating costs have machines paying for themselves in under two years. Let Hitek simplify your plant’s production with a Marumatsu Diamond, Lian Tiee Flexo Folder Gluers and Rotary Die Cutters.

Contact Hitek at 262-842-1700 or www. askhitek.com.

Ryan Ashley Sales Consultant Ryan@askhitek.com

Only 2 Hours of Training and You’re Flat Out Running Marumatsu Automatic Flat Bed Die Cutter by Mikawa

Advantages Quick Easy Training 3 Minute Set-ups One Die Operation No Stripping Dies Required Chaseless Cutting Die Mounting System Available in 40”x55”, 47”x67” and 51”x78”

AskHitek.com Info@AskHitek.com 262-842-1700

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Valco Melton GapChek: Manufacturer’s Gap Measurement from the Bundle Measurement of manufacturer’s joint gaps has traditionally only been possible from inside the flexo-folder-gluer prior to the box being completely folded and straightened. This results in distorted and sometimes inaccurate gap measurements as well as exaggerated skew analysis. As key accounts with automated packaging equipment demand more consistent and correctly-sized folding gaps from their box suppliers, the pressure to accurately measure gaps and remove boxes with out-of-spec gaps in increasing.

GapChek™, the latest corrugated vision system from Valco Melton’s ClearVision division, moves the measurement point to the bundle so that the lead and trail gaps are measured on finished boxes.

As finished bundles travel along the conveyor, they are imaged from the front and the rear by two cameras mounted above the conveyor. These images are used to locate and measure the manufacturer’s gaps and provide on-screen analysis of gaps that are too small or large as well as boxes that may be skewed, where the leading and trailing edge gaps have a large difference. Installed prior to a ClearVision BundleChek system, bundles with gaps that are out of the plant tolerance specification can be ejected and the ClearVision screen used to locate the position of the out-of-spec box in the stack. GapChek provides a screen at the folding section as well as at the bundle ejector in order to facilitate folding rail adjustments.

GapChek displays both per-bundle averages as well as statistical process control charts on-screen that assist the user in modifying folding rail settings based on how much gap variation is occurring and the average gap size that is

38

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

being produced. As with all ClearVision systems, GapChek data are available remotely via the MeasurementChek access over the internet. Users can look at per-job and per-box gap data and analyze historical trends for certain box designs or customers.

Special cases such as square boxes and trimmed flaps as well as unstrapped bundles where the top boxes are partially open are all handled by GapChek.

GapChek requires bundles to be spaced apart and stacked straight from front-to-back. Sideways skew or box offsets are not needed for accurate measurement. GapChek is capable of keeping up with the fastest dual-out machines on the market today.

Valco Melton is a leading supplier of gluing and inspection systems in the

corrugated industry. Since 1952, Valco Melton has been selling and servicing equipment and providing robust solutions for the industry. ClearVision® products are dedicated to using vision for inspecting corrugated production and making removal of defects from the production stream possible.

EQUIPMENT

For more information, contact your local Valco Melton representative or visit www.valcomelton.com.

Contact our sales team at 513-8746550 or visit us at www.valcomelton.com for more information.

MEASURE MANUFACTURER’S GAP FROM THE BUNDLE WITH

GAPCHEK

LEAD GAP

TRAIL GAP

GapChek™, the latest corrugated vision system from Valco Melton’s ClearVision division, moves the measurement point to the bundle so that the lead and trail gaps are measured on finished boxes.

GapChek displays live measurements of each gap and per-bundle averages with statistical process control charts on-screen Users can look at per-job and per-box gap data and analyze historical trends for certain box designs or customers.

Adhesive Dispensing & Quality Inspection Systems World HQ: +1.513.874.6550 | ask@valcomelton.com For more information visit: www.valcomelton.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

39

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Wilhelm Bahmüller Maschinenbau Präzisionswerkzeuge GmbH

Bahmüller’s Area Sales Manager NorthAmerica Benjamin Holke reports: 2019 was a very exciting and successful year for BAHMÜLLER worldwide.

The new assembly hall, opened in 2018, is showing results now. With this Bahmüller established significant increase of capacity and capability to respond faster and more flexibly to customer requests.

After the first BAHMÜLLER TURBOX XL SFG was installed in Orlando, Florida, further TURBOX XLs are installed in EUROPE successfully. Also here the deciding factors were the highest degree of automation, the f lexibility of being able to process large and small boxes on one machine, as well as inline quality assurance like DIAGONAL FOLD SUPERVISION (DFS) and glue inspection in combination with single box ejection UNIQUE EJECT to assure Zero-Defect delivery.

40

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

With this tailwind, things will continue in 2020 in the same optimistic way. Further well-known customers in the US recognized the benefits of the BAHMÜLLER TURBOX technology and invested in several TURBOX lines including the TOPMATCHER multi-piece feeder or automated take-off powered by the BAHMÜLLER POWERPACKER. These customers already have existing BAHMÜLLER specialty folder gluers and know the benefits in detail. The significant increase of productivity, output and production capability and reduction of overtime at the same time are essential for a quick amortization of these investments and were crucial for the decision makers. With these orders, a further POWERPACKER touches the American corrugated converting market and will establish itself here, too. As a matter of course, the POWERPACKER can also

be installed on different specialty folder gluers to increase the existing output and productivity without difficulty.

Of course, that’s not all for 2020.

Standstill is a step backwards and we continue ramping up our R & D and after-sales efforts on enhancing our existing product lines considering customer and market demands. Due to switching to the latest generation of machine control units including the all new human machine interface, BAHMÜLLER already laid the foundation for the Industry 4.0 capability of their specialty folder gluer TURBOX. Building on this technology base, future APP applications for production data recording and evaluation or preventive maintenance modules are the next logical steps. In addition, new and exciting products will be released 2020.

According to the motto “Team up with us,” we are looking forward to being a part of our customers’ continued success in the following years.

Benjamin Holke • Graduate Engineer • Product-Manager at Baumer hhs • Since 2015 Area Sales Manager North-America at Bahmüller Area Sales Manager North-America hob@bahmueller.de +49-7181-809-157

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Ohio Blow Pipe

There’s More to Us than Air Systems If you have a problem with noise, dust, OHSA/EPA/NFPA compliance, waste handling, productivity or energy conservation, we have the solutions. And if you need to know the status of your existing system, whether it’s ours or somebody else’s, we can audit that system for you.

Under Roof AIRSCREEN®+ Separator • Designed for high CFM requirements when low ceiling heights exist • 90,000+ cfm capacity in under 25' clear height • Integrates with high capacity rotary valve that significantly reduces energy costs versus use of a system balancing fan • Includes puncture resistant separation screen and back draft dampers • Small footprint and low maintenance T WO PIT BELT CONVEYOR SYSTEM DESIGNS

• Converting scrap discharged to a continuous belt in a pit • Direct to baler slider bed conveyor design THE CORE MONSTER ®

• Low-maintenance, high-output core shredder processes 110" paper cores in under 7 sec.

• Eliminates material handling, disposal and freight costs associated with processing cores

• Reduces wear and tear on existing shredders • Handles standard 4.5" cores (up to 5.5" with paper) • Turns a cost center into a profit generator • Comes with a spare cutter head THE DUST WIZ ARD™ AMBIENT AIR DUST FILTRATION

• A perfect solution where source capture of dust is not practical or working, such as converting equipment, baler or shredder.

• Creates a healthier, more productive work environment with clean air.

• Captures sub-micron dust particles that impact employee health and wellness.

• Keeps fine explosive dust particles from settling on surfaces.

• Reduces housekeeping expenses.

• Saves wear and tear and energy costs on plant heating and ventilation equipment.

• Various filter options specific to the contaminant of concern can be selected such as odors and gasses.

• Optional AIR image™ Sensor • Monitors and continuously adjusts the Dust Wizard™ speed based upon the concentration of particles or gasses in the indoor air.

• Produces air quality reports and provides filter change alerts available on your laptop, tablet or smart phone.

• Reduces energy consumption.

• View real time or historical data.

SCRAP SYSTEM AUDITS

• Identify scrap system problems and issues • Identify corrective measures • Improve scrap system performance • Identify safety issues • Identify system capacity • Obtain data to comply with NFPA hazard analysis requirement • Provide data to establish preventative maintenance program HOW WE AUDIT YOUR SYSTEM

• Velocity and pressure readings • AMP and RPM readings • Air monitoring • Visual inspection Photos • Bale and baler information • Equipment, ductwork sizing, CFM analysis • System schematics • Blower information • Separator construction, condition and capacity Ed Fakeris President ed@obpairsystems.com 216-681-7379

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

41

EQUIPMENT  THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

XDS

DS XDS introduces AirBond and Corrucleaner to NA For over 30 years Neenah, Wisconsinbased XDS Holdings, Inc., has served the printing and converting industries by providing ancillary equipment that enhances the productivity and quality of the finished product. An affiliate of JB Machinery, XDS engineers and manufactures a wide range of drying, curing and productivity enhancing solutions for the corrugated paperboard and web fed industries.

In addition to their own product lines, XDS is the North American representative for AirBond Double Backer Heat Transfer System. AirBond enables higher running speeds, more consistent board

42

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

quality and minimized warp by providing even and accurate heat transfer across the web. With no internal mechanical linkages or springs, the system is very low maintenance and efficient to operate.

Installed over a single weekend, AirBond provides increased overall efficiencies and fast return on investment.

The newest offering from XDS is the Corrucleaner non-contact web cleaner.

A product of Weducon, Corrucleaner uses ionization and vacuum to efficiently and effectively remove loose paper particles from the web surface, but goes one step further. By neutralizing the web it reduces the attraction of new

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

particles as the web continues through the process. With many cleaners that are simply vacuum, or vacuum and brush, the static charge is either not neutralized or is reintroduced, causing particles to be attracted to the web immediately after cleaning.

Precision machining and attention to detail create a uniform airflow across the entire web for maximum coverage and superior cleaning. Precision manufacturing and laser welded ductwork maximize the inner-body airflow which leads to efficient, smooth, quiet operation. It also eliminates dust traps inside the structure which reduce performance and can cause blockages.

Another feature that sets Corrucleaner apart from other cleaners is the self-cleaning dust collector. Unlike paper

filter collectors which can quickly clog, leading to reduced efficiency and poor performance, the self-cleaning collector is virtually maintenance free and maintains a high level of performance and efficiency.

Case Study: Board 24 Ltd., UK sheet feeder A customer complained that they were stopping every 250 sheets to clean the paper dust from the printing plates, which was causing excessive downtime and wasted product. Unfortunately this was not their only customer reporting similar issues. Board 24 had a new stateof-the-art corrugator, but still suffered from dust and debris issues that plague many operations.

In just one weekend’s time a Corrucleaner web cleaner was installed

a

EQUIPMENT

behind the corrugator slitter, and the results were immediate. The customer that complained about stopping every 250 sheets now reports running 3500 sheets without a single stop to wash the plates. Since the installation Board 24 has not had a single customer complaint about dirty sheets.

For information visit teamxds.com or call 920-722-8123.

Eric Seiler Director of Sales eseiler@teamxds.com 1-920-722-8123 www.teamxds.com

brand

XDS is now the exclusive North American representative for Corrucleaner® non-contact web cleaner and AirBond double backer heat transfer system. Visit teamxds.com to learn more about our products and partners. a

brand

a

2461 Progress Ct./Neenah, WI 54956, USA

brand

1-920-886-4222

sales@teamxds.com

teamxds.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

43

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

A.G. Stacker, Inc.

Innovation & Automation A.G. Stacker continues to see record growth year over year since their inception in 1996. The company grows as the demand for their value-added, patented solutions creates endless requests from customers to further innovate and alleviate common bottlenecks on corrugated converting lines. “Committed to Innovation” is what the A.G. team is all about and what their customers have grown to expect. Decades of collaboration have led the engineering team at AG to design the following as some of these innovations.

DSS – This module (Divert, Separate, Sort) provides the ability to control and automatically divert and separate unnicked boxes. This system is adjustable from the HMI without interrupting production. The diverting arms and angles are saved with the order recipe for automatic set-up on repeat orders that include diverting of 2, 3, and 4 out blanks. This module eliminates the need for the manual set-up of layboy arms.

When combined with our ServoTamp, order changeover times for the stacker can be achieved in less than 2 minutes.

SQR – The Sample Quality Control Rejection module automatically and safely ejects samples or bad product without interrupting production. The most productive solution for removal of set-up

44

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

sheets or finished product to complete QC checks, double printed sheets as a result of missed feeds, or rejection of out of tolerance sheets identified by on press inspection systems.

SERVOTAMP – Auto set-up of entire hopper section, dividers, side tampers, backstop, rear tamping. Great for running multiples without BB. Auto set for all orders but most valuable if a high percentage of 2, 3, and 4 out unnicked die cut orders that regularly repeat.

HSHE – Functions like an FFG counter ejector while running nicked together bundles. NO feed interrupt at speeds up to 12m/hr. Critical for achieving no interrupt of feeding while running bundles, regardless of speed. Must include the Bundle Conveying System for diverting to a secondary line for automatic bundle breaking or manual breaking of nicks.

X-12 lift table is a patented design that is pitless (12" T.O.R.) and capable of operating within the range of between 12" and 48". The X-12 lift table prevents discharging sheets at a downward angle by leaving the main stacker deck in an upright position while building loads or bundles.

BCS – The Bundle Conveying System is built on the patented X-12 lift and is capable of conveying stacks and/or bundles. Accumulation of multiple stacks or

bundles on conveyor possible if required.

A brand new and patented ball belt transfer table is available as a Stage 2 option for our BCS and includes the capability of running multiple bundle lines.

ICS – The Infeed Conveyor System is a semi-automatic solution for the infeed of all converting machines and utilizes the X-12 technology to eliminate the ergonomic issues inherent on manually fed machinery. This system has a fork truck station that receives loads from a fork truck and fully automates the indexing and lifting of stacks of corrugated sheets so that operators merely move handfuls of sheets to the feed table without any bending or lifting.

This system is typically configured at a total length of between 24' and 32' and frees the operator from the task of needing to index loads forward or raise and lower the lift with controls or foot pedals. A “fast down” mode allows the lift table to lower in less than 3 seconds, maximizing the ability to cycle loads. The system is safety guarded and fully motorized to open and close independently of the machine. sales@agstacker.com 540-234-6012

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE 

EQUIPMENT

American Corrugated Machine Corp.

Sechang Jumbo Flexo Folder Gluer

Die Cut Unit

Counter Stacker

Dual Suction Blower(s)

Vacuum Transfer System

An industry leader since 1985, American Corrugated Machine Corp. is a broker of new and used equipment from industry leaders such as Torosian Tech Services, Sechang Machinery Company, RJE Machinery, Engineered Recycling Systems, Potdevin, and Marumatsu.

American Corrugated Machine also specializes in expert ASA appraisals.

Patrick Szany President pszany@acm-corp.com 800-528-2331

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

45

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

BW Papersystems

Think Inside the Box! The packaging industry is evolving.

This is due in large part to the rise of eCommerce. Online shopping and subscription box companies are more popular than ever. In eCommerce, versus brick and mortar retail, merchants have fewer touch points to impress customers, so it is important to utilize every touch point to create a stand-out branded experience. A key touch point that is especially valuable in eCommerce is packaging. Opening the box takes the place of the first impression of walking into a store.

At a recent industry event, it was commented by several attendees that packaging is one of the most significant factors in a consumer’s overall satisfaction. It is a pressure felt by both online merchants and boxmakers.

Multi-color, high-quality graphics provide a unique and memorable branded

46

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

experience. One way to surpass customer expectations is by delivering boxes with a branded message printed inside, as well as outside of the box. BW Papersystems offers single pass inside the box printing on all G-Grafix Flexo Folder Gluers and Rotary Die Cutters. This includes new machines as well as existing machines shipped since 2000. Single pass inside print is also available on MiniPro Flexo Folder Gluers.

The addition of one, or more, inside print units will enable you to be on the leading edge of industry trends. You will increase profit margins by eliminating the added production time of dual pass printing or running pre-print processes.

BW Papersystems is the only supplier in the corrugated industry that is a leading manufacturer of both finishing machines and complete corrugators.

BW Papersystems offers a full range of corrugated equipment. Legendary

MarquipWardUnited technology is outfitted with modern PC-based machine controls and diagnostics. Machines can be purchased as a full line or as individual machines to suit business goals.

The BW Papersystems brand of VortX automatic starch systems ensures process repeatability and adhesive consistency.

Three starch capacity levels are available to meet your plant’s production needs.

BW Papersystems is your partner in creating the perfect box from starch to finish!

Contact our sales team at: Phone: 410-584-7700 Email: sales@bwpapersystems.com www.bwpapersystems.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

CST Systems CleanPrint System Developed by Ecochem Australia Distributed by

Overhead plumbing Follows existing water lines to send pre-diluted cleaner to every print station in the facility PLC Compact logic unit runs a 4-minute washup on manifold 4 minute wash starting

Manifold Delivers pre-diluted cleaner and water rinses directly into inking system

03:45

Foaming Station Machine operators can easily clean print plates, ink pumps, sidewalls, etc.

03:45

DUPLEX CORE GRIPPING SYSTEM Immediate no-slip grip on used cores, soft cores, thin cores, and short cores Built-in no-pinch core ejection — the only safe way to remove stuck cores Higher splicing speeds and major waste reductions on your corrugator

Mixing pump Uses water pressure to pre-dilute cleaner at 1:50 Bintech Tracks cleaner levels for a clear picture on usage

Wash-up button 1-touch wash-up command ties into existing systems or builds a completely new one

C

ST Systems searches the world to partner with recognized leaders in technological innovations for existing equipment. We are proud to commit to improvements to your existing corrugating and converting machinery to help ensure you can deliver quality products at high speed, with less downtime and maintenance.

Our partner manufacturers, Renova and Ecochem, focus on solving small problems that have big impacts on your bottom line. These are problems that often get overlooked as a “next week” issue when other things are on fire today … until they shut your production down.

With CST products and engineering, you can address these problems before they hinder production, and never think about them again. We offer: EVOLUTION STARCH-OFF One-and-done starch system purge to clean out all starch lines and applicator rolls The long-lasting power of enzymes to digest starch and resin buildups completely No caustics, no drilling, no line replacement Approved for use in AIB-compliant food packaging manufacturers. Registered in NSF Whitebook and FDA compliant Deliver consistent starch flow for higher production speeds and consistent product

TURBOREX ROLLSTAND BRAKE Delivering web-tension consistency without regular maintenance The only multi-disc brake in the corrugator market Technological leap in heat dissipation with more braking surfaces, more cooling coverage, and lower radial speed Five-year zero-maintenance guarantee on brakes and discs

Approved for use in AIB-compliant food packaging manufacturers. Registered in NSF Whitebook and FDA compliant Continues to break down ink particles in waste pits, lines, and wastewater treatment areas Contact Daniel Brettschneider and the Sales Team. They will be very happy to answer any questions or discuss your applications.

Daniel Brettschneider Director of Sales and Operations Daniel@cstsystems.net 770-425-3353 Sales@cstsystems.net

MOVIROLL Easily moves the largest rolls up and down shuttle carts without operators pushing Long-lasting battery goes 3-5 shifts without a charge Removes air hoses and other clutter from the floor CLEANPRINT SYSTEM Adds 1 hour of production time per machine, per day Connects every print section in the plant to central soap distribution Builds a 4-minute washup, including automatic soap and rinse, into your oldest and newest equipment Keeps the entire ink system clean like new, all the time BIOCLEAN 5G The enzyme-based ink digester to eat up old ink deposits Safe for machinery, operators, and the environment

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

47

EQUIPMENT  THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

CUIR CCM

C

UIR is a family business, created in 1932 by Marcel Cuir. After manufacturing corner-cutting machines, they launched their first flatbed die-cutters in the ’70s, the famous Miehle machines! Some of them are still making boxes worldwide.

In April 2015, Fabien Val bought the Cuir Company with the aim to bring it back to the spotlight, without compromising quality, sturdiness and register!

Great partners such as Pamarco, Absolute and JB Machinery make Cuir machines more valuable than ever.

48

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

The first flexo press was installed 3 years ago in the UK, a 6-color MKIII machine, which allowed its owner to win EFIA awards a few months later. Orders for flat-bed die-cutters and upgrades on existing machines followed.

Cuir is now a team of 30 employees, several of whom are traveling worldwide to provide assistance and services. In the USA and Canada, Fabien formed a partnership with Tom Torosian, whose company is based in Racine, WI, for the setup of new machines, local maintenance and the supply of spare parts.

The last 3-color die-cutter was installed in November 2019. In February 2020, the next MRV die-cutter will be an I/O version, with 2 top printing units and a bottom one! Now, it is possible to have a CUIR die-cutter in line with flexo. The first model will be in France close to Paris, but you are welcome to request any demonstration or video.

Fabien Val CEO fabien@cuir.com +33-06-09-07-70-75

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

DPi

F

or industrial box makers who may feel left out when the industry talks about the “digital printing revolution,” there is a new solution to consider.

Digital Print Inc. (DPi) is now offering high speed, low cost digital printing to the industrial/brown box market. DPi designs and builds custom stand-alone ink jet printing machines, or can retrofit your existing corrugator, flexo folder gluer or die cutter with ink jet technology, allowing corrugated converters the economics of flexo, with the advantages of digital printing: • No printing plates • No set-up or wash-ups • No flute crush • Speed to market • Variable printing for bar codes, date codes, etc.

DPi’s economical and simple to use technology can be made in almost any width and number of colors, with print speeds that can exceed 1000 feet per minute.

DPi’s systems also use environmentally friendly water-based inks engineered for high speed printing on the kraft and mottled white linerboards typically printed on today.

Contact DPi today to discover how our low cost, high speed technology can bring the benefits of digital printing to your box plant.

Stu Brownell Director Corrugated Applications 859-414-4888 Stuart.brownell@outlook.com www.digitalprint.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

49

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Elitron

Unmanned automation for cutting and logistics Never before has there been so much excitement about automation, and Elitron is at the forefront of this type of innovation. The first to launch a cutting plotter with two gantries and two cutting heads, Elitron then went on to bring you the first fully automatic cutting system with integrated, automatic loading, cutting, creasing and unloading: the Kombo TAV. Today, Elitron is very much in a class of its own: the Kombo TAV-R is specifically engineered to meet finishing requirements of short to medium sized production runs, 24/7. Kombo TAV-R

50

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

comes with a made-to-measure automatic pallet logistics management system.

This system facilitates the rolling-in and rolling-out of pallets, to ensure a continued, non-stop workflow.

Simply set up the pallets and files, and Kombo will cut through the rest: perfect digital finishing, time after time.

As usual Elitron has certainly not rested on its laurels and, true to Elitron’s innovative style, this year it has launched the Reversa sheet turner. Reversa can be integrated in-line with the logistics system of the Kombo TAV-R, or it can be used as a standalone system. As digital printers become ever more present, so too is the need to turn sheets coming out

of printing prior to going into cutting.

Printed boards come out of the printer print side up; Reversa then automatically turns all board formats and perfectly aligns these ready for finishing, or reverse printing. This pallet-to-pallet system has been the talk of the town since its launch, as it is clearly taking over the sheet turning process and further enhancing the production of each automated finishing department.

Keep an eye on Elitron, and don’t miss dropping by their stand at drupa 2020 to see how Elitron’s automation, cutting and software can give you the competitive edge and the best return of investment.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Emmeci Let’s do it Digital!

INTRODUCING THE WORLD’S L ARGEST AUTOMATIC RIGID BOX MACHINE

Emmeci is a world leader in the design and construction of equipment for producing premium rigid cardboard set-up boxes for various market segments.

In addition to mechanical and mechatronic solutions, since 2016 Emmeci has managed the industry 4.0 wave well—interpreting the Luxury packaging consumers’ needs of innovation and top-quality level.

The result of continuous investments in research in this sense has been the launch of packaging lines equipped with an exclusive digital platform.

The advantage offered by new digital machines is primarily related to precision performance: the boxes produced are almost perfect, a result totally in line with the consumers’ requests of top quality.

A further improvement reached is a simplified format change. The changeover from one box size to another can be done easily, just selecting the setting adjustments on the video screen: manual fine-tuning is not required anymore. This has a positive impact on productivity level, in particular for those companies

which produce rigid boxes in different shapes and several batches.

In addition, digital machines are totally user-friendly. They are provided with a dedicated software which allows the operator to manage settings directly; furthermore, it is possible to get technical remote assistance via a touchscreen HMI system and HD video-cameras installed on the line, and daily operations reports.

Moreover, the operator has the possibility to see from specific stepby-step video tutorials how to perform maintenance operation and to assemble kits to produce special boxes.

It is worth mentioning that, thanks to the digital platform, manual interventions are not required: all the main settings can be set up through the touch screen, without performing any action on the machine itself. For this reason, highly qualified operators are not required.

Last but not least, Emmeci digital technology gives the customer the possibility to order spare parts directly from the machine.

Today the company is proud to offer to its customers the possibility to manufacture boxes of any size with digital machines.

Starting from the first digital line developed, the MC2016 DIGITAL, specific for the production of large and medium-large size, passing through the MC2018 DIGITAL, perfect for small and medium-small boxes formats, Emmeci launched the newest solution of the digital family: the MC2019 DIGITAL. It is the first line which fully automates the manufacturing process of big-size rigid boxes, enabling optimum precision and better performance for large-sized packaging. This line is able to run

different cardboard sizes that can be turned into a variety of large-format box shapes (Cross box size, T box size and H box size), reaching a maximum length of 740 mm, a maximum width of 460 mm, and a maximum height of 360 mm.

The demand for high-end packaging is becoming significant in sectors with big-sized luxury products, such as home care and furnishings and haute-couture fashion items, which demand an efficient and precise approach at the same time.

But until now, there was no easily effective way to realize big-size rigid boxes in an automatic way, as the only technology available involved manual manufacturing.

Finally, small, medium, and big-sized luxury packaging is made truly simple to produce!

Contact our Sales Team at 401-431-1496.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

51

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Engineered Recycling Systems, LLC

Engineered Recycling Systems, LLC, Advances Vacuum Transfer and Scrap System Dust Control Technology with Simple and Safe Measures Engineered Recycling Systems, LLC, (ERS) is the industry leader in dust collection, scrap removal and vacuum transfer. The ERS team is comprised of the industry’s top engineers and system integrators, who incorporate the finest equipment technology with expansive industry knowledge and expertise to provide customers with the most innovative integrated systems in the world.

ERS scrap removal and dust collection systems encompass proven technology of the past along with efficient, cost effective technology of today. ERS considers current market trends; workplace safety, health (OSHA) and fire (NFPA) regulations and guidelines; existing and new production equipment and facility layout; and manufacturing requirements to empower customers with a whole package approach of system integration for air conveying systems.

ERS systems are custom designed to meet the needs of today and the challenges of tomorrow. Departing from conventional options in the marketplace, ERS has modernized technology for scrap systems through the use of two defining features: the Balancing Fan and CCMTM Filter. As air, dust and scrap enter the system through the low profile separator, with scrap depositing into the baler, a balancing fan is installed

52

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

to neutralize down pressure in the baler chute and ensure balanced energy throughout that adjusts automatically with system fluctuating air flows. With the utilization of a balancing fan, the system uses only the amount of horsepower necessary to operate. The remaining air and dust are then pushed through to the CCM™ Filter, which includes rotating and oscillating suction nozzles inside of the filter to continuously vacuum any dust and waste from the filter media. The deep filter cleaning every 2–3 minutes results in low pressure loss. The dust is then conveyed to a high efficiency dust collection cyclone which discharges into a dust pucker. The entire system is compliant with workplace safety, health (OSHA) and fire (NFPA) guidelines without additional equipment.

The team at ERS recognizes the importance of simple and safe measures to keep plants running efficiently, with fewer instances of downtime. Advancements to the filter media attachment and replacement system for the CCM™ Filter have made maintenance even easier. With the new, patent-pending filter media, changeout requires fewer people, no tools, no ladders and no scissor lifts. Within minutes, the old media is replaced with the new media, and the system is back up and running.

With ERS systems, production facilities globally have resulted in more manageable and marketable operations, with valuable end products.

Mike Carver is the Managing Member of ERS. Mike leads the team of system integrators, with the goal of providing customized solutions for challenges faced by ERS customers. He adheres to a “learn your customer’s processes, needs and challenges first” philosophy, then pairs that with his strong engineering background to design customized solutions. He believes the success of his customers is rooted in the highest quality equipment and technological advances available. He works with trusted partners to create systems that best suit the needs at hand but are also nimble for future modifications.

As a leader in the corrugated, paper and paper converting industries, Mike conceptualized the Continuous Cleaning Modular (CCM™) Filter for Vacuum Transfer and Dust Control, revolutionizing plants globally. His extensive background in the corrugated industry stems from his first job at Blower Application Co., Inc. Having been around the box business for 30 years, Mike understands the ever-changing needs and challenges of the industry.

Prior to ERS, Mike was a partner at SC Environmental, LLC, as well as a partner at Birchwood Systems, LLC. He founded ACES and Equipment Company, managing the company during his tenure there. He started his career with Blower Application Company, Inc., leaving the company as the Vice President, Sales and Marketing.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Marquette University.

Mike Carver Managing Member info@engineeredrecycling.com 770-954-8780 Locations in Atlanta and Chicago engineeredrecycling.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Felins

F

elins empowers companies across the globe to simplify operations, solve inefficiencies and sustain effective packaging processes with powerful solutions that reduce waste and maximize throughput.

Felins’ full-service team of dedicated packaging professionals works to identify, implement and maintain the best solutions possible for each of our customers’ unique applications.

Felins equipment is high-quality, low-maintenance and best known for eliminating the results of strapping — destroyed edges, ripped corners, irreversible damage, jams from residue buildup, additional costs from compensating for lost product and unhappy customers.

Each Felins system uses ultrasonic technology to create a cold (no heat or adhesive) weld around each bundle that holds the corrugated tightly together without causing damage. Two of the most common automated machines are: ATS US-2200 LBA-LR Designed to gently band die-cut and printed 4-point, 6-point and crash lock boxes as well as POS displays, the US-2200 LBA-LR packages corrugated stacks without damaging edges while ensuring an uninterrupted flow of products and minimizing waste. Capable of handling nearly any banding material, the system can bundle all corrugated grades and be seamlessly integrated into any production line.

ATS US-2000 TRS-SW 550 The US-2000 TRS-SW 550 gently bands smaller-format boxes. After transferring compensated stacks from the conveyer, the machine centers them on all sides prior to banding. Each stack is pressed to its most compact size, making all bundles as space-efficient as possible. For lower volume applications, the TRS-SW 550 can become semi-manual and band products after they have been manually stacked. Regardless of automation, the machine features a large Plexiglas door and digital control panel (DCP) at eyelevel that make viewing and controlling fast and easy. sales@felins.com 414-355-7747

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

53

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Highcon Systems Ltd.

Agile Production for Corrugated The Highcon digital cutting and creasing technology offers corrugated packaging and display converters all the flexibility of digital technology combined with unusually high quality. Users can not only save on the production and storage of die cutting forms but also the digital technology enables JIT production (rather than JIT delivery), short runs, customized perforations with cleaner edges and easier opening, and variable data etching for customization or personalization down to the level of serial numbers. Digital also means the ability to customize structure to optimize box size, reducing over-packing and ensuring the production of the right sized box per product. Digital creasing and cutting is also a non-impact process — resulting in stronger boxes with crush-resistant edges and higher BCT values. With the exponential growth of e-commerce and the ensuing requirement for packaging that can handle the hazards of direct-to-consumer shipping, there is a fast growing need for packaging designed specifically for e-commerce, removing the need for boxes within boxes, reducing shipping costs. What is required is Packaging that carries the brand message, protects the product and also delivers a positive unboxing experience. Digital finishing for corrugated answers the consumer’s requirements for a positive unpacking experience, both structurally and visually, and the brand’s ability to deliver their messaging.

The Highcon Euclid IIIC digital cutting and creasing machine was specifically engineered to suit the needs of packaging converters working with fluted substrates from 1 mm up to 3mm/40–120 pt. The machine eliminates the need for tooling and setup of a conventional die and also has the option to add a Highcon Integrated Digital Stripping unit, saving time and money in the process.

Display components are also a natural for this machine. For many years corrugated has had a branding role, supporting both packaging and displays. The explosive growth of SKUs and the requirement for constant updating has released a demand for “Shelf-ready” packaging and freestanding displays, which translate into ever shorter runs and frequent orders.

The Highcon digital finishing technology ticks all the benefits boxes for corrugated converters: • Efficiency & Speed-To-Market • Customers expect rapid turnaround, between 24–48 hours, and are not prepared to wait for dies to be made • Process Improvement • Size and structure can be customized digitally and files are stored on a thumb drive • Customization • Consumers are interested only in what’s relevant to them; versions per region, demographics, season or language and even personalized products per individual • Online

• Customization of size and structure enables dual purpose packaging for shipping and brand engagement, rightsizing and light-weighting of online packages • Sustainability • Circular packaging economy — no die no storage, lean supply chain, reduced over-packaging, reduced weight of packaging while maintaining box strength, recyclability • Unpacking Experience • Visually attractive, protective packaging that ticks all the boxes. Digital zipper tears make for easy opening.

Aviv Ratzman is one of the founders and also the CMO of Highcon. He has worked for over 25 years in the printing and packaging industry particularly in the post-print part of the process.

AVIV RATZMAN Co-founder & CMO aviv.ratzman@highcon.net +972-8-9101705

Contact East Coast: Paul Lattimore – paul. lattimore@highcon.net West Coast: Roy Oomen – roy.oomen@ highcon.net

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

55

EQUIPMENT  THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

JS Machine

The Game-Changer The JS Folder flexo-folder gluer is the game changer of the corrugated industry.

With speeds reaching 350 sheets per minute and 2-minute setups, ROI is reaching new levels. The vertical integration of JS Machine is crucial in their ability to deliver value to each of their customers.

With a 7,000,000 square foot manufacturing facility and state of the art manufacturing practices & equipment, JS Machine is able to day in and day out produce consistent quality.

The JS Folder is the modern workhorse flexo folder gluer. With minimal spare parts consumption in comparison to the rest of the field, this machine will continue to generate profits for its owners without high maintenance costs and costly downtime.

JS Machine is a technology and service driven company. With the latest in

56

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

remote diagnostics and 24/7 communication with engineering and technical staff, the primary goal beyond delivering world-class equipment is to ensure customer success after the installation.

As one of the newer suppliers in North America, we understand that individual customer success is vital to our longevity in this marketplace.

We specialize in replacing the productivity of 2 or more machines with the JS Folder in a cash flow positive situation for our customers. To learn more please contact Evan Clary at 443-388-7153 or eclary@ncm-jsmachine.com.

Evan Clary North American Sales eclary@ncm-jsmachine. com 443-388-7153

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Kernic Systems Trim and Scrap Recovery Experts Kernic Systems is a Global Designer, Integrator and Installer of complete Recycling Systems, including Baling and Shredding, Air Conveying and Dust Collection, Recycling Equipment and Industrial Vacuums.

We have been serving many industries for over 40 years, with an emphasis on Corrugated, Folding Carton and Printing. During this time, we developed our unique OneSource™ for Simplicity Design, resulting in truly integrated systems with safe operation, optimized performance, and maximized ROI. Kernic Systems delivers customized projects, using high-quality equipment, which is integrated by our experienced team and engineered to work together flawlessly. Our own factory-trained crew has successfully installed many systems throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America and Africa.

How We Help the Corrugated Industry Our team is dedicated to forming a partnership with your company, to providing helpful insights into the pros and cons of each available solution and to helping you minimize costs while maximizing productivity.

Our Trim and Scrap Recovery Systems are designed to pneumatically collect and convey scrap generated by your production machinery, including Die-cutters, Flexo presses, Corrugators, Sheeters and Shredders. The collected material is then sorted by different grades, using cyclones or separators. The sorted materials are then fed to Baling Machines to be converted in saleable bales.

Particle-laden air is carried away to Dust Collectors for treatment, returning only clean air to the atmosphere or the facility.

Design options include both above-roof and below-roof systems, with single-grade

separation of waste and multiple balers to allow for back-up capabilities.

Our Scrap Recovery Systems are of the highest quality; they deliver long life, provide superior reliability, meet current safety levels and generate the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO).

Visit our website and social media to learn more about our installations: • Automatic Tie Extrusion Balers • Horizontal Feed Sheet Shredders • In-line Floor Sweep Shredders • AirVeyor Die-Cutting Scrap Transfer • In-Line Corrugator Trim Cutters • Core Paper Reel Shredders • Complete Dust Collection Systems • Fire and Explosion Protection Systems for compliance with OSHA, NFPA and local regulations • Turnkey Scrap Handling Systems including Cyclones, Separators, Fans and Diverters.

We value our relationships with our customers and we are proud to have longterm business relationships with many companies in AICC. Our commitment to you is to be an ethical partner, supplying modern, high-quality solutions that fit your budget needs along with best-in-class service.

We also have an inventory of quality used equipment.

No matter what your project may be — big or small — we are here to serve our friends at AICC. KERNIC USA Bob Koch Phone: +1-440-250-8560 KERNIC SYSTEMS John Jurk Phone: +1-905-638-9552 +1-905-632-0562 www.kernicsystems.com sales@kernicsystems.com BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

57

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Koenig & Bauer

K

oenig & Bauer is maintaining its leadership position in the global corrugated board market with the launch of several new products such as the CorruCUT, CorruJET, and RotaJET-VL, that satisfy the needs of printers who require high graphic corrugated printing and converting machines that are faster and more cost efficient to operate.

Due to popular trends such as the ubiquitous brown boxes being delivered at front doorsteps for online home shoppers and the need by international brand retailers for sophisticated and colorful outer and inner packaging, manufacturers of corrugated board printing are flourishing.

More color, faster reaction times to seasonal packaging, the development of new personalized markets, shorter run lengths, more efficiency, and cost reductions are prime requests. Corrugated customers seek machines with faster setup and more automation as well as tailor-made solutions for their specific environment.

Waste handling in the corrugated process is a big concern as is color consistency and repeatability for brands.

Koenig & Bauer has partnered with the Klingele Group to install its new CorruCUT sheetfed flexo press with integrated high board line rotary die-cutter at the firm’s German box plant. It has been designed for the high-performance rotary production of die-cut corrugated

products in ultimate flexo post-printing quality. The Klingele six-color press is a completely new design — from the feeder, via the printing units and rotary die-cutter to the delivery. The CorruCUT incorporates a number of unique features such as a vacuum-belt feeder without infeed shaft, a new solution for anilox roller exchange, and an overhead vacuum delivery. The CorruCUT handles corrugated sheets with a width of up to 110 inches and a thickness of 0.354 inches, running at speeds up to 12,000 sheets per hour. Koenig & Bauer engineers have designed it with DriveTronic shaftless drives. It allows operators to set up while production is running and affords fast job change and low maintenance. It provides operators with integrated error diagnostics and online remote maintenance. Users control the machine with a flexible Profibus system and easy-to-use touchscreen. Due to the high quality of the CorruCUT’s printing and diecutting, its short makeready times, and general operating comfort, the new machine has generated a very positive response from Klingele and the global corrugated board industry.

Koenig & Bauer ensures that its corrugated customers remain ahead of their competitors by offering proactive innovative support. Its newest innovation is its AR-DataGlass ensuring that

CorruCUT is a sheetfed flexo press with integrated high board line rotary die-cutter.

58

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

customers receive the maximum uptime and throughput in their facility. The Augmented Reality-DataGlass Remote Support system provides Koenig & Bauer remote maintenance specialists with the ability to experience, in real time, what a customer’s technical team can see and hear. This is easily accomplished with the aid of an HD camera, headset, and microphone. The camera enables remote maintenance specialists from Koenig & Bauer to see and follow the actions of the technicians on site live in real time while they work on the press and see exactly what service technicians on site are seeing.

The specialist can offer targeted support and be instructed step by step on how to remedy the problem.

Durst, manufacturer of advanced digital printing and production technologies, has signed a 50/50 joint venture agreement in Munich with Koenig & Bauer. The signing of the agreement paves the way for the joint development and marketing of single-pass digital printing systems for the folding carton and corrugated fiberboard industry. Koenig & Bauer Durst GmbH will have its registered office in Würzburg and cooperate closely with both parent companies’ global networks. Initially, the joint venture portfolio will comprise the Koenig & Bauer CorruJET 170 and the Durst SPC 130 — including all associated services and the ink business, as well as the development of the VariJET 106.

In addition to the CorruCUT, the firm continues to offer digital printing solutions such as its CorruJET and RotaJET-VL (digital top sheet printing) for the corrugated market. The Koenig & Bauer organization is committed to responding to the needs of the corrugated board market and will continue to find solutions for its customers and support its variety of popular corrugated products.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE 

EQUIPMENT

Longreach International, LLC

Providing Professional Representation Since 2010 Longreach International, LLC, is a manufacturer’s representative organization seeking to represent manufacturers of capital and specialty equipment serving the corrugated packaging industry.

We are especially interested in those manufacturers who are seeking to sell their products in the southeast portion of the United States, and can provide insight and sales experience to sell in Australia and New Zealand.

We do not solicit vendors who manufacture commodities or whose products cannot compete successfully in the areas serviced.

Gregg Diethorn, Founder and Principal of Longreach International, LLC, has been working in the corrugated machinery business for nearly 30 years and has extensive experience in the sale of capital equipment and ancillary products.

We are always seeking high quality products and manufacturers to represent.

Contact Gregg at 540-763-2069 or email: gregg@longreachinternational. com.

Gregg Diethorn Principal gregg@longreachinternational.com 540-763-2069

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

59

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America

An Industry First: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America Corrugating Machinery Division Introduces Remote Assistance Augmented Reality Program In a first-ever industry advancement, The Corrugating Machinery Division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America launched a new customer service program designed to reduce equipment downtime by up to 50% for customers of its premium line of EVOL machines.

The new Remote Assistance Augmented Reality Program is the most recent enhancement to its comprehensive customer service support and was demonstrated for the first time to crowds of attendees at CorrExpo in October.

The new Remote Assistance Augmented Reality Program enables plant managers, technicians, operators, and engineers to share issues and collaborate with MHIA

60

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

technical support staff in real time, direct from their facility via a provided iPad and dedicated app.

MHIA technical support staff are able to resolve machine issues and assist in troubleshooting, complete with drawing and annotating on their device, sharing text on the screen, and capturing pictures or video for optimized documentation. Audio access is available through device speakers or earbuds.

“We are excited to launch an industry-first customer support technology that is as sophisticated, robust, and production-maximizing as our EVOL equipment,” said Darrold Phillips, Vice President Service, MHIA Corrugating Machinery Division. “It’s truly a ‘You see what I see’ technology that allows for faster problem resolution and quicker recovery time.”

The Remote Assistance Augmented Reality Program was developed in close collaboration with SCOPE AR, a global leader in developing augmented reality solutions and products for industrial clients focused around field maintenance, manufacturing, and training.

Phillips notes that the new technology offering also has the capability to offer 3D instructions loaded on the iPad that can be used interactively with EVOL machines.

2019 witnessed a series of ongoing technology and personnel investments

by MHIA. The Remote Assistance Augmented Reality Program launch capped a host of customer service staff promotions, personnel additions and promotions in its engineering and technical services areas.

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Roberds Converting Company Right size, right price, right now!

YOU GIVE US YOUR SIZE, WE SHEET IT HOWEVER YOU’D LIKE

• Custom-sheeted to your job • All 1st line material • Rapid turn times on all orders • Savvy Customer Service team • Abundant paperboard grades • Domestic 70/80/95# C1S • Contract sheeting • Family-run for 40 years Give us a call, shoot us an email, or visit our website to learn more! We are happy to answer questions or inquiries!

Contact Phil Weinrich for help. philipw@roberdsconverting.com 513-348-6211 113 Northeast Drive, Loveland, OH 45140 www.roberdsconverting.com

62

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Signode

Wrapped, Strapped … Secured From its revolutionary Octopus™ line of automatic rotary ring stretch wrappers to its SIG-VCS automatic corrugated cross strapping and squaring bundler, Signode offers a comprehensive line of equipment to help box makers effectively unitize and bundle corrugated products.

Those looking to unitize corrugated pallet loads have several options in the Octopus™ line. For maximum throughput and flexibility, Signode recently introduced to the corrugated industry its Octopus™ Twin Series automatic rotary ring stretch wrapper. Able to wrap up to 150 loads per hour, the Octopus™ Twin features the classic ring-type method of wrapping coupled with a unique dual film carriage design. Its robust construction and well-balanced design maximizes efficiency and reliability.

The machine’s ring design allows for unlimited wrap patterns due to its ability to begin and end film cycles at any vertical point on the load. This inherent feature increases flexibility and reduces film usage up to 25%. With dual film carriages, the Octopus™ Twin further reduces film roll changes by 50%, significantly increasing labor savings, uptime and overall machine efficiencies.

In addition, the wrapper utilizes an “s” style film carriage. When compared to traditional wrap systems, the “s” wrap pattern improves pre-stretch levels, can better handle a variety of films and significantly lowers the overall cost of ownership.

This highly intuitive machine is also easy to operate and install. Loaded with benefits, the Octopus™ Twin Series can accommodate variable load sizes and features multiple machine options to meet varying packaging challenges.

For high-speed bundling, Signode built the SIG-VCS automatic corrugated cross strapping and squaring bundler. The SIG-VCS is designed to strap standard folded boxes and provide high-speed bundling, squaring and strapping for variable package sizes and configurations.

With precise bundle compression and consistent strap tension and placement, it produces up to 25 squared bundles per minute for single strap applications.

The SIG-VCS has flexible features like adjustable strap tension up to 10 levels and a control panel that stores up to 2000 different bundle combinations, making it easy to integrate into any operation with ease and a promise of maximum productivity. Package type

and size can be changed in a matter of minutes, providing quick format changes and setup to keep production running at optimal speeds and reducing downtime.

Much like similar Signode equipment already in the corrugated market, the SIG-VCS features Signode’s auto refeed technology, which automatically rethreads itself if a jam occurs and continues strapping, again reducing downtime and increasing productivity.

And for ease of overall routine maintenance, the SIG-VCS features a segmented metal chute system. Most machines have a plastic chute that begins to break down after continuous cycling and requires replacement. Signode’s metal chute system will come with a lifetime guarantee or up to 10 million cycles. Its out-of-thebox operation coupled with countless productivity-based benefits makes it a top contender in its field for lowest total cost of ownership and reliability.

From KD cartons to triplewall or point-of-purchase displays, specialty boxes, gaylord boxes and more, Signode offers corrugated box plant solutions to maximize throughput while minimizing bottlenecks. For more information on its unique unitizing and bundling solutions, visit: www.signode.com.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

63

EQUIPMENT  THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Solema USA

THE COMPANY We are Solema, a leading company in machine manufacturing for paperboard converting. Our designs operate solid paperboard as well as corrugated: with our machine models, specifically designed to best handle the different paperboard structure, we cover every production need. We use the latest technology devices and are always aiming to grant the most accurate production. With higher productivity as a direct result, Solema Automation also provides an excellent solution for flexibility. We care about each of our customers, performing spare-parts service throughout the years. With advanced technology from our dedicated Research & Development Department, we are able to remotely connect and diagnose issues. We have two main headquarters, located in

64

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

Bergamo, Italy, and Indiana, USA, where we provide dedicated spare parts.

MULTIROLL-CUT Our completely automatic die-cutting machine is designed for the most accurate and high speed production of solid board partition elements directly from the roll – besides pads and strips. Easy set-up of the die-cut bed, fast operating from the HMI, provides granted flatness of the resulting pieces. This outcome ensures that you will receive production of pieces that are of high quality, straight and flat and will agree very easily with other machines for further production and assembly or for purchase.

MOSER Run a 12-cell partition, then a 6-cell, then a 60-cell. With our assembling machine you can create your own

flexibility. The Moser is strictly designed for solid board partition assembling: maximum robustness and maximum operating precision for your next assembler, now with production quality check.

See how we can help you at: www.solemausa.com Please contact our Sales Manager of North America: Josh Shelton Sales Manager of North America jshelton@solemausa.com 1-765-401-4383 Scott Ellis President of Solema USA csellis@solemausa.com 1-765-376-2280

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

Stitching & Gluing Solutions

S

titching & Gluing Solutions brings the robust Solarco boxmaking machines, the Gazzella Atlantique versatile line of stitching, folding, gluing and taping machines, and the Vega Group’s high quality specialty folder gluers and double feeders to U.S. and Canadian markets.

Never turn down a short or mid-sized run again! Solarco dynamic boxmaking machines for mid and short runs achieve multi-color flexo printing, die-cutting, and scoring in one pass. Affordable converting: precise, robust, and easy to operate while keeping your big machines running the big jobs.

The smart alternative to an expensive jumbo flexo folder gluer. Get quick payback with the versatility of a fully automatic Gazzella Atlantique stitcher-gluer with the ability to stitch, glitch, hot melt, cold glue, and tape…single through triple-wall with static folding for precision squaring. Easy computerized set-up, single operator production, uniform stitching, quality, and cost effective with 10 minute changeovers!

Vega, in Milan, Italy, has been specializing in the design, production, and craftsmanship of specialty folder gluers for the most varied of applications since 1947. Experience lightning fast set-ups with precise registration and alignment. And, increase the performance of your existing folder gluer with an automatic double feeder to create shelf ready packaging.

Contact Jeff Jensen or Thom Brannock to discuss your stitching, gluing, folding, and boxmaking needs: 513-588-3199 or email us, Jeff@stitchingandgluing.com or Thom@stitchingandgluing.com.

STITCHING & GLUING SOLUTIONS, LLC

Solarco BOXMATIC Boxmaker

Gazzella Atlantique Stitcher

Stitching and Gluing Solutions Dependable U.S. based sales, service, parts, and training. We have the experience and know-how to solve even the toughest problems; get to know us and you’ll agree!

Vega Altair Folder Gluer Feeder

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

65

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SUN Automation Group New Innovations, Partnerships and a Customer-Centric Business Model Take Center Stage at SUN Automation Group® Maintaining a high standard of service and “culture of listening,” SUN Automation Group® continues to propel forward with new innovative solutions for the corrugated box industry. From groundbreaking new ink systems to strategic partnerships, 2019 gave customers more of what they demand.

Answering the corrugated industry call for a cleaner, safer and more cost-effective ink pump system, SUN Automation Group disrupted the industry at CorrExpo 2019 in Denver, CO, and introduced its Electra-Flow Electric Ink Pump. The patent pending, electrically powered, double diaphragm ink pump has all the qualities of an air-powered ink pump while offering all the advantages of an electric-powered operation. The inherent design of the Electric Ink Pump not only eliminates the need for costly air consumption and associated pneumatic plumbing and valves required for air-powered pumps, it also lowers maintenance and material costs. The Electric Ink Pump uses a low-voltage DC motor in a cycloidal motion to oscillate opposed diaphragms. The two pump heads are timed so that one head is taking liquid in while the other is expelling. As a result, pump pulsations are minimized due to the smooth reversing action of the crank mechanism. Intuitively designed, the Electric Ink Pump is available as a stand-alone kit or can be integrated into ink system controls.

Looking to expand its service offerings and help support the rapidly growing Latitude Machinery Corporation (LMC) customer base, SUN entered an exclusive strategic partnership with LMC that took effect August 2019. Since then, SUN has become the exclusive North and Central America representative of all LMC machinery and supports its current customers with parts and service.

66

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

LMC is a rapidly growing and worldclass manufacturer of Flexo Folder Gluers, Rotary Die Cutters and other solutions to the corrugated industry, with approximately 100 machines in the field across North America. The equipment maintains an excellent reputation in the marketplace, and the additional support will only serve LMC equipment owners even better. In addition, SUN is now able to expand its technology and service offerings to its current customers. It’s a virtual win-win for LMC equipment owners and SUN customers. SUN Automation Group currently fields a team of 12 internal parts and service coordinators, 15 field service technicians and the largest inventory of parts in North America, which will be on hand to support LMC’s current and future customers.

Exciting partnerships and new innovations weren’t the only things happening at SUN Automation this year. SUN continues to fuel innovations in digital print technology with its latest generation of the popular CorrStream technology launched earlier this year. The CorrStream Next Generation machine boasts a smaller footprint and modular design—making installs easier and faster than ever. As the industry evolves, CorrStream users also won’t have to worry about whether their machine will become obsolete. The new modular design enables seamless integration of new and emerging technologies.

The new design is now on display at SUN Automation Group’s headquarters in Glen Arm, Maryland, which is open for tours.

In addition, SUN continues to grow with its trusted and proven SUN625 rotary die cutter, popular feeding and vacuum transfer solutions, and low total cost of ownership. Coupled with the most extensive parts inventory, SUN can also help customers bring their workhorses back to OEM specification or better. These cost-effective solutions help customers

maximize existing machinery while incorporating new technology previously unavailable on older models.

To accommodate top and bottom anvil applications, SUN’s MicroGrind® technology is the industry’s most effective anvil-trimming solution. Its patented technology utilizes a tungsten carbide grinding roll to grind the anvil flat and true.

This inventive approach allows the surface to be treated in micro amounts (0.001" or 0.025 mm) automatically with grinding precision every 10,000 impressions without operator intervention, ultimately resulting in crisper and cleaner cuts.

In looking ahead, SUN seeks to continue to meet customer demands by working tirelessly to be a trusted partner and employ a “culture of listening.” Whether that means servicing equipment and supplying parts, fulfilling new orders, establishing new partnerships or innovating new solutions, SUN plans to answer the demands of today as well as tomorrow.

With so many happenings going on, SUN encourages visits to its state-of-the-art facility in Glen Arm, Maryland. To contact directly, call: 410-472-2900 or visit: www. sunautomation.com.

About SUN Automation Group® SUN Automation Group® is a global industry leader providing corrugated box plants with innovative equipment for feeding, printing and converting. The wide range of products are proven solutions for increasing production, efficiency and profitability.

With 24/7 on-site technical support, SUN Automation is known for its exceptional service and care. Headquartered outside of Baltimore, MD, SUN Automation has service centers around the globe. To keep up to date with SUN Automation’s innovations and news, visit www.sunautomation. com or follow the company on twitter @SUN_Automation.

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

W. H. Leary Co.

W. H. Leary Boosts E-Commerce Packaging Quality W. H. Leary Company offers gluing and quality assurance solutions for the demands of the specialty corrugated box market. Leary’s gluing and quality assurance solutions focus on the rising demands of e-commerce packaging consisting of high quality graphic corrugated boxes produced on Specialty Folder Gluers.

Leary’s patented solutions guarantee every box is inspected by each detection station on the folder gluer. The Quantum™ cold glue valve and UV40 glue detection sensor ensures +/- 1 mm accuracy. The slim valve design is equipped with adjustable mounting hardware and heavy duty guides for precise product containment. Choose dual Quantum valves for increased application and stronger adherence. Application patterns and detection can be controlled individually or combined for efficient glue savings and precise tolerances.

68

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

Detect for glue presence, placement and volume with ease, set up detection and make fine-tune adjustments remotely.

Monitor for mixed copy and verify customer code readability at 2,000 scans/ sec, reading each code multiple times to guarantee reliability.

Guarantee box quality with missing or dropped flap detection. This solution monitors absence and presence of flaps, inspects for hanging scrap and correct cut outs as well as detecting dropped 45° crash lock or 4/6 corner flaps. Reliable rejection devices ensure that defective products are correctly identified for delivery of 100% quality product to your customer.

Leary also offers a complete pressure sensitive adhesive and silicone release liner solution to converters producing e-commerce and other mailing products.

Using the Robatech FK IT coating head along with either Enpro or Straub tape applicators and a simple controller, Leary offers solutions for high-speed, long run

and cost-effective short run applications.

Package options include: Concept hot melt tank, FK IT coating head, iTac IR hot melt detection, tape applicator and controller. Improve packaging services offered to your customers with these silicone release liner options.

Schedule a demonstration of Leary’s glue application and quality assurance solution in our Demo Center in Tinley Park, IL. To learn how Leary solutions can improve your specialty folder gluer box quality and processes, contact W. H. Leary at sales.us@whleary.com or +1 (708) 444-4900.

For more information visit us at www. whleary.com/corrugated-specialty-folder-gluer.

Anne Wozniak Marketing Manager annew@whleary.com 708-307-8822

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

EQUIPMENT

WSA-USA, LLC Vertical Rack Storage for WIP and Finished Goods When we consider the fact that many of today’s material handling solutions for the corrugated market originated in other industries, it should be no surprise that vertical rack storage is beginning to make inroads in today’s corrugated box factories. Vertical rack storage systems for WIP or finished goods has been a common material handling concept for many years in industries such as paper, tissue, aluminum and automotive, just to name a few. Migrating into corrugated was just a matter of time given the similar manufacturing principles seen in these other industries. That time is now and WSA-USA is excited to be on the front end of this unique product offering for the North American market.

The WSA-USA AS/AR Vertical Storage System is a fully automated corrugated WIP and/or Finished Goods handling system designed to maximize storage capacity while reducing the overall storage footprint. It is also designed to minimize energy requirements with far fewer motors, drives and moving parts, which results in a very low cost of ownership compared to a traditional WIP conveyor system. It is also specifically designed to be fully integrated with the plant’s scheduling system (i.e., Kiwiplan, CTI, others …). The system is a fully automated one that tracks every load and shows its location and movements in real time. With space being such a constraint in most factories, we are now giving our customers the option of going up rather than out! This solution was first introduced to the North American market in the Spring of 2017.

System Benefits include: • Lower upfront investment compared to a traditional conveyor WIP system

• 80% less power required to move the same amount of corrugated board • Up to 70% less floor space required to store the same amount of corrugated board • 65% reduction in the number of motors, drives, photo eyes and sensors compared to a traditional conveyor WIP system Doug Vandergriff Sales Director dvandergriff@wsa-usa.com 513-588-3180

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

69

EQUIPMENT THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Young Shin USA

Young Shin Offers a Giant Leap in Digital Print Diecutting The digital print market continues to experience steady growth and is expected to top $33.49 billion by 2026, as reported by Verified Market Research.

Since digital print job run lengths are becoming increasingly longer, typical diecutting techniques are falling short in terms of costs and efficiency.

Traditional cutting tables (cutting one piece per minute) or clamshell devices (~200 per hour on large formats with heavy labor costs and significant safety concerns) cannot produce cost-effective or high-quality results. In addition, neither the cutting table nor the clamshell device provides stripping, and often requires two to three operators to run the equipment.

The Young Shin Giant Diecutter Series simplifies those challenges and yields even greater benefits within the production environment. Not only does it run at 2,000 to 3,000 sheets per hour and offer cutting tonnage of 550 U.S. tons, the Giant provides outstanding registration, clean cuts and matrix

70

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

scoring that eliminate slowdowns on specialty gluing equipment.

The Young Shin Giant typically requires only one (1) operator due to its automated operations including rapid make-readies and optional EZ Feeder.

The make-ready time on the Giant is easily recaptured by its speed, accuracy and automatic stripping inherent in the diecutter’s operation. Additional benefits (different than a cutting table or clamshell or even a digital diecutter) is that it is manufactured in South Korea with globally recognized and superior electronics together with its heavy-gauge steel frame and construction.

Beyond the digital print output demand, the Young Shin Giant also serves as a high-production stand-alone diecutter that is reliable, easy-to-operate and offers an affordable first-cost and operational-cost efficiency not found within the market today. The Giant series offers format sizes up to 98" x 67" easily able to accommodate KBA’s largest format output.

The entire series of Young Shin Diecutters including the Giant, Zenith,

Revotec, Meridian and Quest models provide an unprecedented two (2) year parts and equipment warranty, comprehensive installation and thorough operator training. Young Shin USA’s service technicians are employed directly by the company and are supported by two U.S.-based parts depots in Atlanta and Wichita. This team manages all service and support calls while competently and rapidly handling any parts orders requested by our clients.

To learn more about Young Shin’s comprehensive flatbed diecutter products, kindly contact Phil Mack, Vice President of Young Shin USA, at 847-598-3611 or via email at philmack@ youngshinusa.com. Comprehensive information on the Giant and other Young Shin, STOCK Maschinenbau and Cartostrip products can be obtained by visiting www.youngshinusa. com.

Phil Mack established Young Shin USA, the North American headquarters of South Korean-based Young Shin Industries, in 2008, and has successfully expanded Young Shin’s market presence within the flatbed diecutter market.

Young Shin USA also serves as the North American representative of the globally acclaimed products of German-based STOCK Maschinenbau, a premier manufacturer of labelers, laminators, in-line systems and single-face sheeters, and the UK-based Cartostrip, a hand-held stripping device.

Phil Mack Vice President philmack@youngshinusa.com 847-598-3611 www.youngshinusa.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

Stafford Corrugated Products

S

ince 1987, one company has been continuously recognized as the “go to” guys when it comes to replacement and consumable machine parts. Stafford Corrugated Products would like to thank our loyal customers for anointing us with that title. 2019 was a record-setting year for us and we appreciate the continued support we receive from our customers.

From the company’s humble beginnings, supplying hardware parts for Die Drum Cylinders and performing in-plant Die Cylinder Modifications, our growth has paralleled that of the Corrugated Industry. Over the years, we have continued to add additional products and services to our portfolio to the delight of our customers. Today, more customers choose to utilize our Die Cylinder Modification service as a preventative as well as predictive maintenance program.

This cost-effective service allows your die cutter of any age to regain much of its original performance capabilities. Ask us for a quote and you’ll see how affordable this service can be.

As the cornerstone of our product line, Stafford features the RODICUT Die Cut Anvil Blanket. This Anvil Blanket is made for every conceivable manufacturer

of Rotary Die Cutters ever produced.

Available in single width, double width and almost every width in between, we’ve got you and your Rotary Die Cutter covered.

The unique “knuckle lock” system makes them the easiest cover to install and to rotate. Designed and manufactured to meet or exceed OEM specifications, our Anvil Covers contribute to longer cover life and higher quality finished die cuts. In addition, Stafford’s Technical Sales/Service Representatives have extensive industry experience to assist you with troubleshooting and resolving common die cutter issues.

We have the knowledge base to provide in-house training to your die cutter and flexo folder gluer crews and supervisors on best practices for optimum die cutter performance. Is your Rotary Die Cutter or Flexo Folder Gluer with Die Cutter equipped with a free-wheeling, equalizing type system? Stafford has more total years of experience than any of our competition in troubleshooting and training on these systems. We can come into your plant, evaluate the total condition of the system and advise you on how to correct any defects. We manufacture many of the most common replacement parts for these systems as well. In addition, if your Flexo

Folder Gluer is equipped with a soft-cut glue lap anvil, Stafford has the Glue Lap covers and the “slip-ring” bearings that go with it. The Stafford Glue Lap Anvil Cover features the same “knuckle lock” design as the Die Cut Anvil Cover. This makes our cover easiest to install and flip in order to gain additional cover life. No one has you covered better than Stafford. We also offer “SHOK BLOK,” a revolutionary steel-to-steel glue lap cutting system. Ask your Stafford representative for details about how this system works and what it can do for you. It’s available for all makes and models of machinery.

As we move into 2020, we look forward to working with our customers and offering even more products and services to you.

When it comes to keeping your machinery in top operating condition, think Stafford.

We are ANVILS…PARTS…SERVICE… EXPERTISE. Contact us at Stafford Corrugated Products Indian Trail, NC www.go2stafford.com 800-282-5787

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

71

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

ARC International

Get A Better Grip On Flute Crushers And Board Skewers Much attention is being paid to finished board crush on flexo folder gluers and flexo die-cutters. Continuous improvement teams study the effects of elastomeric compounds, rubber additives, durometer hardness, layer thickness, single versus dual durometer designs, and patterned surfaces.

Many maintenance workers focus primarily on the longevity of feed roller surfaces. This can compromise performance. The most common problem is skewing and flute crush at the ends of the board. This is usually due to running larger sheets on machines that predominantly run smaller board. Prolonged use of rollers with softer durometers creates a wear pattern in the roller’s center, causing that area to have a smaller diameter than the ends. That uneven pressure affects print coverage across the board, resulting in rejects and subsequent waste.

While ARC International does offer dual durometer feed rollers giving longer life, today’s trend is a single durometer measuring 25 to 35 Shore A in hardness.

This is effective in minimizing crush, as long as rollers are properly maintained and

72

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

monitored. Many ARC customers order feed rollers with a “Visual Wear Grid” on the rubber. Maybe you’ve seen wear bars between the treads on your car’s tires.

The Visual Wear Grid, available on ARC rollers, works the same way. You easily see when and where the roller’s wear is uneven.

Pull rollers are sometimes sold without protective corrosion barriers on their surfaces. These can soon start to rust on the surface, and the knurling begins to degrade. If bottom pull rollers are worn or rusted, a smaller percent of the roller’s knurled surface can make good contact.

When that is compounded by wear on the upper feed roller, operators are often inclined to apply more pressure in order to get a better grip on the board. The result is flute crush and added roller wear. The ARChitects of Flexo at ARC offer you a 45-degree diamond pattern or straight horizontal knurl, and recommend a corrosion resistant nickel-chrome Nikote™ surface for extended wear, compared to standard chrome plating.

When upper feed and lower pull rollers are manufactured to OEM specifications and monitored routinely for wear and performance efficiency, you can expect diminished flute crush,

experience minimal skewing, and achieve uniform kick action with increased speeds and better registration.

Your ARC technical specialist would be happy to analyze any or all of your rollers and recommend the best solution for your specific application.

Steve Woodard is a 36-year veteran of the anilox roller and related industries. A 1976 graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with a B.S. degree in Business Administration, he is in his 33rd year of service with ARC International and is responsible for the development and management of national account programs with corrugated, wide web, and narrow web corporations.

Throughout his career Woodard has been active with TAPPI, AICC, and FTA, providing committee involvement and technical presentations. In 2012 he received his certification as a Six Sigma Green Belt from UNC-Charlotte.

Steve Woodard Vice President of Corporate Services swoodard@arcinternational.com 704-588-1809

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

Dicar, Inc.

Dicar, 50 Years of Outstanding Products, Service and Innovation Dicar is celebrating its 50th year of providing outstanding products and customer service to converters in the corrugated packaging industry.

Headquartered in Pine Brook, New Jersey, with manufacturing facilities in New Jersey and Texas, Dicar is a world-class supplier of durable Anvilok® diecutting covers, lead edge feed wheels, Crushless® rollers and creasers, anvil

®

system, die-making and die-cutting supplies and much more.

Maintaining a network of Technical Sales and Service Managers and Die Cutting Experts around the world, Dicar provides Global coverage with Local support.

Family owned, Dicar maintains the culture of innovation and dedication to customer service that founders Ron Warll and Bud Kirkpatrick instilled in the business. Dicar’s product line has evolved and expanded to include hundreds of products engineered to enhance the efficiency, productivity, quality and safety of corrugated diecutting operations around the world.

Dicar’s recent innovations include …

Equalizer™ G4, the latest version of the popular Equalizer anvil system, uses Dicar’s patented Snap Sleeve “split bearing” design. This design allows removal of individual bearing sections for easier and more efficient mounting and rotation especially in close quarters. The design accommodates thermal expansion maintaining consistent cover mounting and allowing the bearing to easily slide along the cylinder for simplified installation and rotation.

AnviLatch™, Dicar’s ergonomically friendly modern anvil cover mounting technology, eliminates the need to use

a mallet when mounting or rotating.

A simple indexing of the die cylinder secures the covers to the cylinder.

Dicar’s Emba Die Cut Bearing Upgrade brings a new level of ease-of-use and efficiency to Emba diecutting stations. Based on the Equalizer G4 design, this upgrade offers the same benefits and advantages of the G4.

Dicar’s Geo. Martin Scrubber Replacement Wheels feature a Wrap-on™ design for simple and quick removal and installation, meet or exceed the OEM specifications and deliver optimum wear and sheet control without marking the sheets.

SpeedStrap™ reusable magnetic pull bands for printing or diecutting provide a quick and cost effective way to maximize sheet control through the printing and diecutting stations for enhanced registration, fewer jams and higher quality of the finished product.

Visit www.dicar.com for more information on Dicar products or to shop at our online store.

Shawn Spencer VP Sales & Marketing shawns@dicarinc.net 1-800-240-4157 www.dicar.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

73

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Quest7, Inc. Committed to the Corrugated Box Industry A NOTE FROM THE OWNER:

Quest7, Inc., began March 3, 2003, with myself, my wife, and our two children.

But there are many I would like to recognize and thank who influenced my career path and opened doors of opportunity, from what began as an inspiration while I was in high school. Their influence on my life has led me through a journey of growth. Through success and failure, I find value in what I have learned and the people who have helped me to learn.

Their impact on my life has allowed me to have a positive impact in the lives of others.

As a family business, we acknowledge the relationship we have with employees and customers who are “like family” to us. This partnership and common bond strengthen Quest7’s focus and commitment to the corrugated box industry. To many, it is “just a box.” To us, it is the way we “do life” together. We appreciate the friendships we have made and look forward to the people will meet in the future.

It is amazing how this industry has evolved since I began in 1983. I recall mixing starch from bags, making splices by hand, setting up triplex slitters in a pit, and hand stacking off the corrugator.

We used to push stacks of board around on conveyors and hand feed converting

74

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

machines. Ideas of “one box set up” seemed impossible. Mixing ink was just that, we mixed ink with a skill unique to each operator. Warp, delamination, skewed boxes, and print issues were a few of the battles we faced every day.

Delivery times of one to two weeks were normal. Seeing how far this industry has come is a credit to the many people and organizations who committed themselves to making us all better.

I truly appreciate the hands-on experience and hard work during those days, as it allows me to have a better understanding as to what our customers are going through on a daily basis. Others on our team have similar hands-on experience and hard work specific to their career in this industry. Together, we utilize our knowledge to help our customers solve their challenges.

There are two key principles I have observed in our successful customers.

First, they supply their customers with a better product that meets their needs, and second, they get that product to their customers very quickly. Therefore, for Quest7 to be a successful company, we must give our customers the same—a better product that meets their requirements and a quick turn-around time. We have both the ability and willingness to work with our customers to create a custom-made knife, in a matter of hours, allowing us to be very responsive to each customer’s unique need.

In addition to custom-made knives, Quest7, Inc., supplies other various products to the corrugated industry. As a manufacturer and distributor, our product lines include converting male and female slotters and corrugator carbide & steel razor slitters, splicing tapes, re-enforcement tapes, strings, and tear tapes.

A few months ago, we began building our new state-of-the-art facility in Machesney Park, IL, so we can move our manufacturing from Wisconsin to Illinois. Many of our customers have taken the same leap of faith, and understand what it takes to see their dream become a reality. Completion occurred December 2019. We will spend the first few months of 2020 moving equipment and getting settled in while still conducting business as usual. Everyone at Quest7 is excited and looking forward to the opportunities that will be available in the future.

Please visit our website, www.Quest7. us, and contact us to learn more about the products we offer. We look forward to a personal face-to-face connection with you.

Tim J. Burns, President Quest7, Inc. 9853 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park, IL 61115 Phone: 815-654-7737 Cell: 815-979-7020

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems

ARCS: Helping Companies Maintain Their Anilox Rolls for Over 35 Years Anilox Roll Cleaning Systems (ARCS) helps printers, packaging manufacturers, and converters improve their print quality and reduce their operating costs by cleaning out dried ink, coatings, and adhesives from their printing and coating rollers. Our experience doing this type of work spans over 35 years, and today we work with hundreds of companies in helping them maintain their ink volumes and coating weights.

ARCS is a turn-key roll cleaning service and system provider. We can clean your rolls for you at your facility or ours.

For companies who wish to perform roll cleaning themselves, we offer for sale several equipment options from which to choose.

Our SERVICES DIVISION offers nationwide coverage. Our on-site roll cleaning service can perform both on-press and off-press cleaning using either our unique Eclipse® Laser System or specially formulated “Anilox” baking soda. Our deep cleaning process is effective on most types of rollers and residues, including rolls with line screens

76

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

up to 1500 LPI. We can even clean out completely plugged rollers! Only need a few rolls cleaned? No problem — send them to our shop for fast, efficient LASER service. We will restore your volumes to their original specs and have them on their way back to you within 24–48 hours!

Our SYSTEMS DIVISION offers Laser Roll Cleaning Equipment providing state-of-the-art cleaning technology using a proprietary laser pattern.

These easy-to-use systems only require electricity to work — no compressed air, water, or media are ever required, therefore NO waste is generated. Laser

cleaning also helps companies achieve their sustainability initiatives and move away from the use of chemicals and other processes that produce waste during roll cleaning operations. Proudly MADE in the USA! Also Available: New dust-free ARCS Pro-Series On-Press or Off-Press Baking Soda Cleaning Systems and high quality refurbished baking soda systems.

Contact us at …

Amanda DiGiovanni Customer Service Manager amanda@aniloxrollclean.com 800-699-3722

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

Flexo Concepts

TruPoint Green® – Tomorrow’s Doctor Blade for Today’s Printers As corrugated graphics requirements grow, many printers are finding their UHMW doctor blades are unable to produce what their customers want— attention-grabbing packages with brand consistency. But they may not want to run steel blades due to shorter blade life, anilox scoring potential and risk of injuries to operators when handling them. In these cases, the TruPoint Green® doctor blade by Flexo Concepts® is the perfect solution.

Why doesn’t UHMW work in mid-level graphics applications?

When anilox line screens approach 300 LPI (120 l/cm), UHMW’s effectiveness declines. The blade’s contact area with the anilox surface quickly grows to a point that it cannot cleanly wipe excess ink from the roll. Printers start to see changes in tonal value, dot gain, dirty print and ink waste.

The large contact area is made worse by the material’s poor ability to return to its original shape after being flexed, or “spring memory”; UHMW loses 70% of its reaction force in the first 30 minutes of use and 78% of its force over a 14-hour period. As the blade loses its elasticity, press operators have to increase blade pressure to maintain contact with the anilox roll, further deforming the blade tip and enlarging the contact area — all while disrupting the press run and accelerating blade wear.

What’s different about TruPoint Green?

An easy drop-in replacement for UHMW, TruPoint Green performs well in mid-range graphics applications while maintaining the benefits of plastic doctor blades — longer blade life, less scoring and better safety than steel.

Green is made from a next generation custom-compounded polymer material developed in Flexo Concepts’ Doctor Blade Innovation Lab. In corrugated print

applications, the material demonstrates superior stiffness and 2x better spring memory than UHMW and a much lower wear rate than steel. Due to these characteristics, Green can maintain good blade-to-anilox contact throughout the print job. When using Green, press operators report that they see better print quality and don’t have to stop their presses as often to make blade adjustments and changes.

In all, TruPoint Green offers an excellent blade solution for corrugated printers who are challenged by the demand for advanced graphics but value blade life and safety in the pressroom. With better stiffness and spring memory, Green can fulfill these precision metering requirements so they don’t have to turn to steel.

Kevin McLaughlin CEO kmclaughlin@flexoconcepts.com 508-830-9506

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

77

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Mark/Trèce

Mark/Trèce is a leading edge prepress company providing printing plates for corrugated point of purchase displays, flexible packaging, and steel rule dies.

For over 55 years, Mark/Trèce has provided the flexographic printing industry with everyday solutions. Today the company has manufacturing and sales operations in nine locations in the U.S. and Caribbean.

Dedicated to the advancement of the industry Mark/Trèce has often been recognized for superior achievement in its field, and frequently partners within the industry and education to promote knowledge and technical advancement of flexographic printing. Our CEO is Founder and first President of the Flexographic Prepress Platemakers Association (FPPA).

78

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

A single source supplier Today, Mark/Trèce continues to service the diverse needs of the flexographic printing market. In addition to platemaking, we offer total concept development, including graphic design, print quality advancement programs, cutting dies, and a variety of consultative services.

of Mark/Trèce since 1962. Today supported by partners and board members Sandra Godfrey, Ken Ricks, and Lee Grantham, this well-rooted and knowledgeable succession team assures a successful plan for the future.

Our experience and professionalism ensures that your expectations are not only met, but exceeded.

Looking to the future Mark/Trèce looks to the future with investments in color management, networking, screening calibration technologies, and digital platemaking.

Real-time connectivity via WebCenter between all divisions means that the entire Mark/Trèce corporation is available to serve you, whichever geographic location your market may be in.

Richard Godfrey CEO, Original Partner Donald McCaughey Vice Chairman, Original Partner Lee Grantham Vice President Sandra Godfrey Chief Financial Officer Ken Ricks Vice President

Integral to our team are Richard Godfrey and Donald McCaughey, original partners

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES

SGS Leading the Way: #1 Worldwide Provider of Flexographic Plates for Packaging SGS is the leading supplier of flexographic plates for the corrugated industry.

Our extensive graphic capabilities including artwork, prepress, image carriers and color management streamline the graphics process, consistently producing superior quality packaging with today’s demanding quick turnarounds.

Our corrugated facilities in Atlanta (GA), Florence (KY), Minneapolis (MN), and Toronto (ON) operate a total of 26 CDI imaging devices and four Kodaks, on a 24/7 schedule, processing 576MM square inches of photopolymer annually, all supported by our dedicated corrugated press tech teams. These Flexo

Centers of Excellence offer full-service plates from simple to complex, including Basic Corrugated, Amazon FFP/SIOC and High End Displays.

We work with all photopolymer manufacturers including MacDermid, DuPont, Flint Group and Kodak and offer both Liquid and Digital sheet capabilities. We provide the latest imaging and screening technologies, maintaining relationships with leading industry partners to ensure that we offer our clients the innovation and enhancements that are required in today’s packaging market.

Additional offerings include MAX plate wash to floor, Kongsberg plate patchers, conventional & pin mounting for up to 400 mounts per day and cutting die partnerships. We can also

help support your business with 3D renderings, digital print mock-ups and interactive print.

SGS empowers the corrugated industry, driving quality, service and capacity through people, process and technology.

For more information, please contact: Daniel Fournel, Senior Account Director 803-603-9516 | daniel.fournel@sgsco.com sgsintl.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

79

DIES, ROLLS, PLATES, AND ACCESSORIES   THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Pamarco

Investing in Innovation, Investing in the Future As the leading manufacturer of both anilox rolls and glue and metering sets for the corrugated industry, we recognize that our highest responsibility is understanding the needs of our clients. Because of this, we are committed to providing each customer with customized, innovative solutions to advance their capabilities in a market of constantly changing demands. By pairing our dedication to quality and consistency with an award-winning product line, investment in technology, and original techniques, we aim to meet every need of our customers.

Whether that customer is a machine manufacturer based in Europe, or an independent based in the United States, we can fulfill their individual requirements. From high graphics printing to product consistency, from continent to continent. And, with plant locations spread across the United States, proximity to customers also offers the additional value of reduced freight costs and quick turnaround on orders.

As a company, we are never truly satisfied with industry standards; our goal is always higher. We constantly strive for creative, forward-thinking approaches to manufacturing, services,

80

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

and the products our clients count on to produce superior printed results.

A key part of accomplishing this goal is continued investment to remain at the leading edge of technology. In 2019, these investments were extensive: new lasers and upstream equipment in our La Palma and Batavia plants, multiple new machining centers in our Atlanta facility, expansions in Roselle to establish a mechanical engraving center of excellence for glue and metering rolls, and an expansion in Walton of roll base capabilities to service the demands of our OEM clients and the spares needs of our box house clients.

2020 brings a whole new level of excitement as we move to a state-of-theart, purpose-built facility after over sixty years in our Batavia location. Located only miles away from the current plant, this 36,000 square foot location will leverage the latest advancements in machinery and focus on our awardwinning, laser-engraved product range.

But equipment and buildings alone can’t get the job done: the power of Pamarco is its people. Through the experience that comes from decades of dedication and internal training programs for new members, our crews in each location deliver consistent, quality products made to exacting specifications. A specialized team of technical sales engineers carry

extensive product and process knowledge that is designed to provide our clients with more value than any standard product purchase. Anilox roll audits, glue roll inspections, and training seminars are just a few examples of the technical support that comes with the leader of the industry. And, most importantly, we want you to feel that we are part of your own team, providing your business with the support that you need to solve problems and increase productivity.

At Pamarco, our highest ambition is to help you get the most benefit from the products and services that we provide. A proven strategy that has been around for ages, we find it still valuable today for both attaining and retaining customers, as well as for the morale of those behind the scenes here at Pamarco. As we look to the future with a focus on investment and innovation, we hope you will let us make finding your solutions and increasing your profitability our top priority.

John Burgess President

New Year, New Investments.

Batavia 2020 New year, new home, same Pamarco quality.

Follow us on social media to stay up to date on the grand opening of our state of the art facility. pamarco

pamarco1946

pamarco1946

pamarco

www.pamarco.com | kara.wojnowski@pamarco.com | 404-691-1700

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Quantum Ink Company

Once a Teacher, Always a Teacher Imagine existing in a state of constant chaos, requiring meticulous strategy, in a high-pressure, ever-changing environment. Of course, I’m referring to teaching elementary and middle school students! I spent ten years of my life in the classroom trying my best to educate the next generation of adults. My time was spent planning and implementing lessons that were geared to have the greatest likelihood of success in engaging my audience of students. Teaching was both a rewarding and challenging occupation, and in truth, may have been the best tool to prepare me for my current career.

Seven years ago, I decided it was time for a career shift that would bring me back home to my family’s business.

Quantum Ink was founded more than 20 years ago by my father based upon the ideals of providing high-quality products with exceptional customer service. He taught me, early and often, that everyone involved in the process of our business is important and should be respected as such. We strive to create relationships with our customers based upon genuine understanding and respect. By doing so, everyone has a greater chance of winning in the end. Quantum Ink is very

82

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

proud of our products and the team we have assembled at our manufacturing headquarters in Louisville, KY. I always tell people that it takes a special kind of person to work for our company. Being a family business requires a high level of buy-in from every single member of the organization. I can assure you that every employee at Quantum Ink is proud of what they do, and it shows every day in the products we send out the door.

Quantum Ink separates itself from other suppliers by genuinely believing in the power of continual education of our partners in printing. There’s so much more to printing than simply slapping ink onto a substrate. There is a science to what we do at Quantum Ink, and we want to help our customers understand what they can do to generate successful print every time. We offer our customers on-site ink seminars that give an overview of the basics of ink and training on the management of pH and viscosity.

These classes allow the individuals actually using our ink, on a daily basis, both time in the classroom and on press for questions, answers and demonstrations. Additionally, we provide amine analysis sessions to ensure that the ink we are providing will perform as well as it can in a customer’s specific environment.

In the past couple of years, Quantum Ink has even been involved in working with universities to provide training to the next generation of printers. In short, Quantum Ink believes that we can help our customers create consistent, efficient and cost-saving print through the power of education, communication and teamwork.

It’s been seven years since I have spent any time teaching students in the classroom, but ironically education is still a large part of what I do every day at

Quantum Ink. It’s important to me that our manufacturing employees understand the raw materials they are using and the end products they are creating.

Our shipping department needs to have a firm understanding of the current state of logistics and what we can do to ensure on-time deliveries. The Quantum lab must understand the end application requirements of our customers to truly quality control what is going out the door.

In other words, the entire Quantum Ink machine needs to be geared to work in unison in providing the quality and service we strive for every day. In the end, I’m still a teacher, and have the job of making sure our team understands how to fully take care of our most valuable resource in our customers, who we truly view as part of the team. Quantum Ink believes in doing things differently, but not just differently—better, which is why we suggest you ink differently by contacting Quantum Ink. Dan Bland Jr. is part owner and Operations Manager at Quantum Ink Company. Quantum Ink is a service oriented company that specializes in flexographic and gravure printing applications.

Dan believes in service through teamwork and continual education.

Dan Bland Jr. Operations Manager drb@quantumink.com 502-364-8900

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

Astral Adhesives & Coatings

Value, Innovation and Service A rapidly growing supplier of waterbased coating, Astral has introduced a variety of groundbreaking products to the corrugated packaging industry.

Clients have come to depend on Astral for providing innovative solutions and great value. By partnering with clients

to deliver what they need, when they need it, Astral also offers exemplary customer service that is personalized and efficient. From offering inventory on site and quick turnarounds to localized manufacturing, dedication to clients’ needs is always a priority.

Some of the newest offerings from Astral include a bakery-white coating, bake-in silicone release and an industryleading, low-Cobb combination that will not block or scuff.

Even with these new and state-of-theart products, Astral continues to offer the lowest-cost paperboard coatings – a

result of low overhead and exceptional partnerships with suppliers. Clients trust Astral to provide a product of consistent quality and can be assured that no formula changes will ever take place without their knowledge. That is a commitment and a promise.

Astral currently supplies to independent and integrated companies and also to several offline coaters. Astral is always looking to develop new products to meet client demand. With the introduction of new technologies, the folding carton market is Astral’s next area of focus.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

83

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

BCM INKS BRIDGE the Difference – A Total Solution for E-Commerce Print According to Disruptive Advertising, e-commerce is growing at 23% year over year. As e-commerce continues its rapid expansion, online retailers need to generate a “wow” factor for consumers through the unboxing experience.

Brand Packaging magazine stated “The popularity of unboxing videos indicates that e-commerce consumers think of opening packages as unveiling a gift to themselves. The “unboxing experience” is of high value. Delivering an experience that drives rave reviews and positive word of mouth is about getting everything right at the same time: products delivered at the right price, arrive in the right condition, and provide the right user experience. The author of “Anatomy of the Perfect Unboxing Experience” lists three criteria for the perfect unboxing experience. They are as follows: • Design an exterior box that stands out and impresses the consumer • Develop and use branded tape to make the box easy to open (frustration free) and to reinforce the brand • Decorate the interior of the box to reinforce the brand’s attention to detail and to provide an unexpected surprise for the consumer Due to these reasons, retailers want the box to have print on the inside and outside. Printing on the inside and outside of a box is a challenge. BCM is helping printers meet this challenge through our BRIDGE program, which stands for: B = Brand Color Management R = Return on Efficiency I = Inks

84

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

D = Digital/Variable Printing G = Guidance/Education/Training E = E-Commerce The printer needs to ensure the colors on the inside and outside of the box match while printing efficiently. BCM can help because our balanced inks for inside/outside printing are designed to dry quickly, eliminate scuffing, remain stable throughout the print run, and provide vibrant color. Through the BRIDGE program, BCM also provides an easy to use color management software called Color ConneXion®. This revolutionary software was developed specifically for the corrugated industry.

Digital printing also plays a major factor in e-commerce. With BCM’s twenty year experience in digital printing, BCM can provide a digital solution for the Barberán, HP, or any of your digital needs. If it is not a digital solution but digital education, then we can point you in the right direction with our extensive knowledge. Digital print education is only part of the education, as training is needed to print on the inside and outside of a box. BCM will provide in-house and online training about e-commerce and inside/outside printing in English or Spanish.

Contact BCM Inks at 1-800-6786238 or sales@bcminks.com or visit us at Booth #1769 at SuperCorrExpo to learn more about BRIDGE, Color ConneXion®, training, digital printing, or our many ink innovations. sales@bcminks.com 1-800-678-6238 www.bcminks.com

ColorConne ion

X

®

Color Management Software

Developed for the Corrugated Market • • • • • • •

Monitors color effortlessly and effectively Links design with ink and press rooms Repeatable results by storing job settings permanently Ability to view “Live” color readings Infinite seats - entire organization will have access Historical reporting No annual seat license fee

Please contact sales@bcminks.com or call 1-800-678-6238 to learn more about Color ConneXion ®

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

Flint Group Packaging Inks Committed to excellence with the right people, products & services!

Flint Group Paper & Board is dedicated to providing exceptional products and expertise to packaging converters worldwide through its People, Products and Services. The partnership of Flint Group, AIC, ACS and Printec ensures that package printers receive the highest quality inks and coatings supported by the most knowledge people.

To enhance its products and services for the future, Flint Group’s corrugated pre- and post-print development experts work together as a global and regional team to identify market needs and develop products, services and solutions to meet those requirements.

As stated by Michael Mosley, Vice President and General Manager Packaging Inks North America for Flint Group, “We are wholly committed to reducing product and operational complexity, increasing our speed to market and creating value for our customers. We have unique and irrefutable value propositions which are supported by a team of the best and most dedicated individuals in the industry.

“Flint Group’s Paper & Board division focuses on corrugated and we understand what works for all facets of corrugated printing. Flint Group delivers the right ink and the experts who can support printers any time they need it. Inks, coatings and top-notch service — this is the focus of what we do.”

In 2020, Flint Group Paper & Board will launch its AquaCode range of products in North America. AquaCode is a full technology range that embodies the very heart of Flint Group Paper & Board. This ink range, designed for all Paper & Board applications, goes beyond conventional chemistries to deliver 21st

century print quality while providing industry-leading environmental and stewardship opportunities.

The AquaCode range has been developed to improve printers’ and converters’ production efficiencies through outstanding product stability and performance.

This low maintenance series offers real cost in use savings while providing the highest print quality. With AquaCode, Flint Group presents a global water-based technology designed to reduce total cost of print.

Included within the AquaCode range are inks to support all corrugated applications, a full line of additives, specialty inks and a full line of coatings and primers. Of particular note, Flint Group will proudly launch TerraCode — a range of inks based

on biorenewable raw material and chemistry. With outstanding print properties and quality, these inks have been designed to address the growing environmental concerns of printers, brand owners and consumers.

Stay tuned to learn more about the full AquaCode product range throughout 2020!

We’ d love to hear from you! Contact our marketing department and we’ ll connect you with the right person. For more information, please contact: Deanna Klemesrud Global Marketing Director – Packaging Inks Deanna.klemesrud@flintgrp.com +1-763-398-2716

Explore

a new normal in corrugated printing!

Inks & Coatings for Paper & Board People - Flint Group’s seasoned and skilled experts are dedicated to bringing color, function, and sustainable success to the printing and packaging industry.

Products - High quality inks and coatings are optimized for the corrugated industry, offering the best output for increased uptime in your converting line.

Solutions - Cutting edge digital color management tools with 24/7 support.

Innovative service programs that will revolutionize the printing industry.

Rely on Flint Group to deliver exceptional service, quality, value and continuous innovation around the world. www.flintgrp.com • info.packaginginks@flintgrp.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

85

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Henkel Corporation Protection for Your Corrugated Line In 2015, Henkel introduced powder borax replacement products in North America.

Their popularity has grown, and we now supply over 3 million pounds per year to numerous corrugators. AQUENCE® HALO products, our patented starch enhancing technologies, along with customized equipment options, are proven to: • Decrease starch consumption — most plants see at least a 10% reduction • Increase production efficiencies — improved cleanup, reduced waste,

86

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

increased formula optimization and accuracy, better application control • Reduce safety risks AQUENCE® HALO can create a safer, cleaner, more efficient and cost-effective corrugating application at your plant. It eliminates the guesswork and gives operators confidence to increase line speeds.

Along with HALO, Henkel offers a full line of corrugating additives, services and adhesives. Contact us at corrugating@ henkel.com or www.henkel-adhesives.com to learn more.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

INX International Co.

I

NX International Ink Co. is proud to be a long-term supplier partner to the paper packaging and corrugated industries. Rising to the ever-present challenges that are a hallmark of these industries, our technology-based solutions help drive cost efficiency and productivity improvements for our customer. With the ability to provide a full range of products and service across North America, INX is your partner of choice.

New natural-based inks From a safety and sustainable viewpoint, INXhrc™ natural-based inks have caught the attention of brand owners and food packaging providers. Not only are they safe and better for the environment, but INXhrc also reduces regulatory risk and improves production efficiencies for printers and converters alike.

By utilizing clean, bio-renewable and sustainable ingredients, INXhrc has already replaced over three million

pounds of petro-based chemicals, waxes and additives. By doing so, it translates to a reduction of 5.6 million pounds of CO2 emissions since the CO2 footprint is 20 to 30 percent less than standard aqueous inks.

INXhrc uses fewer chemicals compared to traditional inks and does not contain allergens, nanomaterials, flourochemicals, fanal pigments, heavy metals, latex or PTFE. Printers are experiencing better ink mileage and production efficiency, leading to a reduction in resource consumption and waste generation.

Digital is here to stay Through INX Digital, INX provides excellent alternate ink solutions for scanning type digital corrugated printers. These printers, from a variety of manufacturers, continue to play a significant role in the corrugated landscape, and in recent years, single pass digital printers have found a strong home in the corrugated market.

Our BSR-06 UVIJ digital inks and primer are designed specifically for Barberán Jetmaster printers.

Manufactured in the United States, the inks are available as a six-color platform: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black; plus Orange and Violet or Orange and Green.

Combined with INX AC9139 UVIJ

water-based digital primer, these products produce excellent print quality and superior flexibility of the cured ink on the corrugated substrate, in addition to sharp, brilliant images with very low odor and the best rub resistance available.

Solutions beyond inks In addition to product solutions, expertise in areas such as color management and on-site ink dispensing bring extra value to our customers. Knowing how the tools work and how to use them to a customer’s benefit is a big plus. Whether it is expertise in spectrophotometry, use of Pantone Live, a G-7 expert or dispenser input from one of our internal specialists, we have numerous resources to complement the products we produce.

At INX International we use our experience, knowledge and technical expertise to help make our customers better. We are committed to working with our customers to provide the best combination of products and services that meet their specific needs. Our ongoing joint success has a strong foundation in lasting partnerships.

Contact INX at info@inxintl.com or 866-233-INKS or visit us online at www. inxinternational.com.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

87

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

LD Davis LD Davis Introduces Rigid Box Stay Tape Product Line LD Davis is a global provider of glue and gelatin solutions that drives superior product performance for mid-to-largesized manufacturing companies. For more than 90 years, our team has worked hard to advance our gelatin-based, liquid and hot melt glue solutions and applications, and each day we partner with our customers to set new industry standards in our business and theirs through custom glue formulations.

You’ve likely seen LD Davis involved with the rigid box wrapping and laminating processes. Many of our natural, eco-friendly gelatin glues are considered the “industry standard” for U.S. rigid box manufacturers. But, after hearing from our customers that they didn’t feel they had many options when it came to stay tape, we knew it was time to add this product to our line-up.

Our goal has always been to be a onestop glue resource for our customers. To stay aligned with this goal, we are excited to announce that LD Davis now carries a line of high quality stay tape products.

Benefits of LD Davis Stay Tape: • Wide heat seal temperature range • Available in 30 lb., 60 lb. and 90 lb. weight • Available in widths 7/8", 3/4" • Cost-competitive • Superior performance with a variety of substrates • More consistent adhesive coverage than competitors’ stay tape • Complete fiber tear

88

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

When it comes to your glue or stay tape, LD Davis knows you require a knowledgeable source who can recommend the best option and get it to you fast. Our long-standing customers and new customers can attest to the urgent and all-hands-on-deck approach we take to customer service. Whether your existing supply is running low or you’re experiencing time sensitive issues with your glue, stay tape or gluing equipment, LD Davis will make your continued production our first priority.

For more information about LD Davis stay tape and rigid box glue products, visit www.lddavis.com.

Maria Ceschan is the Digital Marketing Manager at LD Davis Glues & Gelatins, a third generation Pennsylvania based glue manufacturer.

Her position focuses on supporting our B2B channels through marketing strategy and execution. Her primary focus is on digital marketing tactics such as Inbound, Email, Paid Search, Organic Search, Social and Mobile marketing.

Maria Ceschan Digital Marketing Manager mceschan@lddavis.com 800-883-6199

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

INKS, COATINGS, AND ADHESIVES

Sun Chemical

A Trusted Single Source for Inks, Coatings and Consumables Converters looking for inks, coatings and consumables that provide consistent and reliable performance can now benefit from Sun Chemical’s comprehensive SunVisto® family of products.

INKS

Sun Chemical’s SunVisto Advantage ink series is a family of products designed for consistent and reliable performance during high speed press runs with optimized rheology, ink flow, resolubility, and balanced dry rate, while requiring minimal ink management on press.

The series of inks offers a wide range of benefits including: • Ease of use and clean-up • Performance reliability and property stability • Balanced resolubility and dry speed for optimal performance at high speed • Consistent quality as it is manufactured in high automated, bulk processes • Products for high graphic work • Solutions for challenging print jobs

COATINGS

Sun Chemical offers water-based and UV coatings designed to fit the individual needs of printers, including a variety of options for satin, matte and gloss printing. Other coatings offer COF and slide angle as well as dry rate. The UV inks are benzophenone-free, and coatings can also offer resistance to oil and grease or even water. Sun Chemical also offers a line of special effects coatings and laser marking coating solutions that allows content to be added after the filling and closure of a package.

CONSUMABLES

Printers looking for a high performance and environmentally friendly cleaning solution which effectively helps scour heavily soiled plates and anilox rollers, can now use Sun Chemical’s latest consumable technology, the SunVisto Anilox Renew and the SunVisto Power Scrub.

SunVisto Anilox Renew is a highly concentrated cleaner designed to provide a deep cleaning foam that brings heavily soiled plates and anilox rollers back to their “like new” condition. Anilox Renew

minimizes or eliminates the need for sending anilox rollers out for cleaning.

By applying it weekly, most anilox rolls will not require bi-weekly removal and blasting, eliminating costs and improving overall quality. SunVisto Power Scrub complements the Anilox Renew and is a total cleaning system, using the same technology built into Anilox Renew at a more economical price, and can be used on any surface.

With customer technical service experts available for support and training with local supply facilities within hours of converters, Sun Chemical stands ready to serve converters as a single source for inks, coatings and consumables. To learn more, visit www.sunchemical.com or call 1-708-236-3798.

Jeremy Teachman Field Marketing Manager Jeremy.teachman@sunchemical.com 708-236-3798

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

89

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Durst Austria’s Rondo Group has chosen Durst’s single-pass to offer global brand owners, retailers and local customers new corrugated packaging solutions SINGLE-PASS INKJET IS READY FOR THE “SPECIALTY” REQUIREMENTS OF THE BIG NAMES IN PACKAGING

More markets, more quality & creative requirements, different speeds and different pricing levels. And consequently, different technologies. One question among all: digital yes, or digital no? And perhaps even more, what form of digital? This is a tricky topic with an ever-evolving world where there is a need for high production speeds, environmentally-friendly production, moving, printing and drying at high speeds on a poor material like cardboard, which is more difficult than it sounds. Among these players there is Durst, with its Single-pass Delta SPC 130.

A EUROPEAN CORRUGATED LEADER – WHEN INTEGRATION DOES SPECIALIZATION

The Rondo plant in Sankt Ruprecht is an example of efficiency and integration. It is just one of nine plants of the Austrian Rondo Group, spread across Austria, Germany, Hungary, Romania and Turkey. But also, the most innovative.

“The Sankt Ruprecht site has existed since 1971. Initially, flexo printing was used here, but in the last 20 years, thanks to a very ambitious plant manager, innovative printing and converting processes have been introduced. So much so that within Rondo we have become the Specialty division,” explains Karl Pucher, Managing Director – Rondo. “Among the innovations of which we are proud there is an exclusive offset printing department, with Koenig

90

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

& Bauer machines designed and built exclusively for us, able to print directly on corrugated with E and F waves. In addition to offset and lamination, there are 6-color flexo lines, HD flexo and the Durst SPC 130 inkjet.”

FROM BOXES TO EXTRA-LARGE DISPLAYS, ALL IN ONE CLICK

One of the critical issues arising from the introduction of digital in analog companies has always been the harmonization of inkjet peripherals with analog ones, especially in the presence of finishing machines and highly automated converting lines and in-line or near-line processing. Digital printing could be an unfamiliar entity, which requires you to redesign your workflows. The Durst Delta SPC 130 at Rondo, however, seems to have led to a different reaction (video: https://youtu. be/ATT9rRdjo1A). “The great advantage of a single-pass inkjet like the Durst SPC is that it comes in a format that matches our die-cutting and finishing lines, giving us the ability to produce larger materials in one piece,” explains Robert Posch, Production Director – Rondo.

This has also translated into an opportunity to produce large displays in short runs, with high levels of customization.

These are products that before we had to make in two pieces and at the expense of long manual operations. “When you have a very compact workflow and a reduced space between the corrugator and the rest of the company, the more direct route you go, the better it is,” concludes Posch. “So, in reality it is the offset that is not very efficient because of the long waiting times for printed semi-finished products, even of 12–24 hours, before you can send them to the die-cutting machine.”

TOWARD A DIGITAL ECOSYSTEM?

Although designed and built to meet industrial needs, no printer is an island.

The topic of interconnecting with platforms and stakeholders upstream and downstream of inkjet printing is also an important topic for Rondo. “We have integrated all technologies and today it’s digital, which implies new challenges for our prepress department, but also enormous practical advantages,” says Pucher. With offset plates and flexo polymers, it sometimes means extra costs and delays for the renovations. That’s why the adoption of the inkjet has only accelerated an ongoing digitization process. The technology innovation at Rondo is already at the highest level: the company has in-house software and resources dedicated to design, parametric design of packaging, graphics to dress it, color management.

“If you use flexo to print mostly flat colors, you have more options with digital and the graphic files automatically become more complex. The creatives are no longer limited to one, two or three colors, but use of the entire spectrum, which must then be governed,” Pucher concludes. “Before, we had to process 50 images per day, today we have 500.”

We wonder if the entire corrugated production ecosystem can ever be digital or digitized, but Karl Pucher has little doubt. “In the end, a digital model will prevail, where we will have more standardization in sheet size, corrugator outputs, printing and die-cutting. And I don’t think we’ll have to wait 15 years for this to happen.”

Larry D’Amico Director of Sales, Durst North America Ldamico@durstus.com 908-858-6291

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

Huston Patterson

H

uston Patterson has been providing unparalleled value and performance through the use of craftsmanship and technology by incorporating the principles of trust, integrity and commitment since the late 1800’s. This is something not many people in this country can say, regardless of the industry. We can, though, as Huston Patterson is the longest-standing privately owned package printer in North America.

What makes us stand out? How have we not just survived all these years, but also thrived? We could have included endless pictures including the fleet of state of the art Koenig & Bauer printing presses we have invested in over the past

decade giving us the capability to handle almost any print need. We could talk about the multi-million dollar expansion that was completed at the end of 2018.

We thought about featuring our in-house sheeting capabilities, giving us the ability to reduce the cost and turn times for our clients because we can sheet our own paper. We also thought about highlighting the fact that we are one of only a few printers in our sector that supplies litho and top sheets from coast to coast. Our strategic location and large capacity for work allows us to hit our clients in all corners of the US and everywhere in between in a timely manner. Finally, we could have decided to talk about our talented team of sales representatives

who have the experience and knowledge to help your business succeed.

Instead, we decided to go in a different direction and highlight something totally unique to us. Something that I truly believe makes us stand out as a company. Our people. It is these people, some of whom have been with Huston Patterson for decades, which make our success possible. They are fathers, mothers, grandparents, hobbyists, risk takers and sports fans…but together, they make up the backbone of our team.

Huston Patterson values our clients and is thankful for the business we have done together over the last 100 years. We have built our company with the foundation of our people and the commitment they have made to our company and our clients. Without these real people, HP wouldn’t be where it is today at the forefront of innovation in the large format print and packaging industries.

Sincerely, Tonya Kowa-Morelli President Huston Patterson Printers Tonya Kowa-Morelli President tonyak@hustonpatterson. com 217-429-5161

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

91

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

WestRock ensure color matching for the brands you supply, giving you the ability to meet brand owners’ delta E requirements.

By choosing a supplier that delivers substrates with consistent b-values you can minimize SKU proliferation, reduce waste, and lessen supply chain and inventory complexity.

WANT TO SEE HOW WESTROCK B-VALUES COMPARE?

Delivering consistency in graphics to brand owners In today’s brand image conscious world, being able to hit your image targets consistently has never been more important.

To ensure repeatable images from run to run, many factors, like inks, paper and variability on the press, must be carefully controlled. Great packaging businesses know that the visual consistency of highend substrates can make all the difference in printing quality and that’s why they rely on WestRock DiamondTop™.

Backed by industry leading technical sales support and expertise, WestRock DiamondTop™ offers a complete family of white containerboard products that deliver unmatched quality and consistency for all printing needs.

OPTICAL BRIGHTENERS

If you know color theory, you know that visual consistency of substrates

92

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

has a significant impact on corrugated postprint results. Not all white top liners are manufactured in a manner that creates inherent visual stability.

WestRock DiamondTop products are made with virgin fiber and without the use of Optical Brightening Agents (OBAs), a class of chemical additives that artificially increase the brightness of a sheet. Other white top liners in the market are produced with a high degree of recycled fiber, which necessitates the use of OBAs. Uncontrolled amounts of OBAs can alter the color appearance of a substrate when viewed under different lighting and can dramatically impact a brand’s package appearance.

IMPORTANCE OF B-VALUE

How do you know if your white top supply is produced with consistency? Ask for b-value (blue-yellow measurement) variability data. Consistent b-values help

Download our white paper to see how we stack up, and why consistency is the reason great packaging businesses and smart brand owners choose the DiamondTop family of white containerboard products for all their graphic printing needs.

Get the facts at www.westrock.com/ diamondtop.

WestRock’s DiamondTop™ product portfolio includes: • DiamondTop™ – white top linerboard • DiamondTop™ Solid – fully bleached linerboard • DiamondTop™ 1C – single-coated white top linerboard • DiamondTop™ 2C – double-coated solid bleached linerboard ©2020 WestRock Company. All rights reserved.

Andrew Woodroffe, WestRock – Vice President of Containerboard Mill Quality and Technical Services Andrew leads a team responsible for managing the quality/technical services program and product management systems for WestRock’s containerboard mills. Andrew is a leading authority on the production and use of white containerboard products. He has been involved in WestRock’s white containerboard product line for over 20 years.

Powerful art deserves an extraordinary canvas.

Backed by the industry’s leading technical sales support and supply chain expertise, we offer a complete line of high-impact graphics grades. Created to the highest industry standards, each paper solution delivers award-winning quality and consistency for all your printing needs. Our DiamondTop™ substrates have earned five 2018 Excellence in Flexography Awards. Whether you need brightness, strength, durability or flexibility across printers, we can help.

Contact your WestRock containerboard representative.

westrock.com ©2019 WestRock Company. All rights reserved.

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

CorrChoice Louisville Industry’s Best Lead Times At CorrChoice Louisville, bulk corrugated is what we do, and service is who we are. More than just a supplier of corrugated sheets, bulk boxes, and produce bins, we are an extension of your business.

We strive to bring together our solutions and capabilities to be your choice, whether you’re an independent box maker, a produce farmer, or an industrial manufacturer.

With the industry’s best lead times, we protect your heaviest bulk shipping requirements with two jumbo flexo folder gluers under one roof.

CORRUGATED BOARD COMBINATIONS:

• Triple Wall (CAA): Non-test, 67 EXT – 1800# • Double Wall (BC, AC, AA): Non-test, 42ECT – 600# CAPABILITIES:

• UN Certified • Regional warehouses • On-site testing • Widest range of flute profiles • Preprint and functional coatings CorrChoice Louisville, together with our network of six plants under one brand, is committed to being your trusted partner and expert consultant for corrugated sheets, coatings, litho lamination, and bulk packaging.

Jane Jennings Marketing Manger jane.jennings@greif.com 360-601-7860

94

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

H.B. Fuller Enhance Your Consumer Unboxing Experience As more consumers around the globe shop online, the need for high performing adhesives and frustration-free packaging is essential for retailers and manufacturers. Our e-commerce solutions keep products safe through the demanding supply chain journey and delight consumers with easy opening and closing for return.

H.B. Fuller is your one-stop solution provider for e-commerce packaging adhesives and tapes. We help you streamline your process and design packaging that will enhance the consumer experience.

Frustration-Free Opening with Open-Sesame ® Tape

Frustration-Free Opening and Closing Open-Sesame® provides frustration-free easy opening, which delights consumers during the unboxing. This safe opening system does not require any cutting tools. The consumer experience gets even better when used with Close-Sesame™ closing tape. It adds an easy peel and seal closing application, making the package return ready.

Packaging Reinforcement and Containment Sesame® Tape protects products through the demanding e-commerce supply chain journey. It is engineered for strength and offers targeted reinforcement to critical areas of all types of corrugated boxes. This cost-effective, fully integrated packaging reinforcement tape can be applied to a wide range of packages— including bulk bins, shipping containers and heavy-duty boxes—at the wet or dry end of the corrugator.

Handle Reinforcement Sesame® Tape is a fiber-based adhesive coated technology, engineered to add

Easy Handling for Consumers with Sesame ® Tape Reinforcement

strength to the packaging, offering targeted reinforcement to your package’s handles and hand holes. Our solutions prevent packaging failures and ensure that consumers get their products to their homes safely and comfortably. It is great for use on beer and beverage cartons, appliance boxes, and heavy parts boxes.

Contact us at 360-576-4207 or sesame@hbfuller.com.

About H.B. Fuller Since 1887, H.B. Fuller has been a leading global adhesives provider focusing on perfecting adhesives, sealants and other specialty chemical products to improve products and lives. Our reliable, responsive service creates lasting, rewarding connections with independent converters. For more information, visit us at www.hbfuller.com/ACS.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

95

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

ND Paper

N

D Paper is an environmentally-friendly company that manufactures various types of high-quality pulp, paper and packaging materials. Our name might be new, but our proud heritage in papermaking spans more than 100 years in resource-rich Maine, Wisconsin and West Virginia.

Tradition of quality and runnability We are proud to manufacture high-quality paper products including Glide, Trident, Oxford, Orion, Vision, Rumford Offset, Escanaba, Dependoweb, Capri and Consoweb at our integrated paper mills in Biron, Wisc. and Rumford, Maine. These brands boast a well-earned reputation for durability, dependability and consistent performance for a wide variety of applications. Our mill in Fairmont, West Virginia is one of only three in the world that produces air-dried, recycled pulp, and our fourth mill, in Old Town, Maine, produces unbleached softwood kraft pulp.

96

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

Introducing Corrugating Medium We have a long history of providing value-added solutions for our customers, and our lightweight containerboard is our latest product designed to provide our customers with a competitive edge.

Our lightweight containerboard product joins our renowned printing and specialty papers to provide a variety of optimal product solutions for your evolving business needs – ensuring your operations perform at maximum efficiency. ND Paper corrugating medium is available in a range of basis weights from 16# – 26# to fit a variety of corrugated board combinations.

Sustainable now and for the next 100 years ND Paper strives to be a leading North American producer of pulp and paper products, including coated two-side, coated one-side, and uncoated printing papers; containerboard; and market pulp.

In 2020, we will execute strategic capital

projects that support our ambitions and demonstrate our commitment to your business. At our Rumford, Maine facility, our pulp dryer and all three paper machines will undergo significant upgrades that will increase pulp production, enhance product quality, capacity and productivity for our printing & writing customers, and expand our production of specialty packaging products. This investment will not only enhance the quality of our printing and writing and C1S grades, but also ensure the long-term viability of the Rumford Division. In Biron, Wisconsin we will complete the conversion of our B25 machine from lightweight coated mechanical papers to recycled linerboard and corrugating medium. This project will serve as ND Paper’s entry into new markets, as well as stabilize the Biron Division for years to come.

The months ahead will be transformative for our mills as we continue to modernize our four U.S. mills. We are proud of our 1,400 dedicated employees, who together produce more than 1.2 million short tons of pulp & paper annually.

Learn more about ND Paper products and our 100-year outlook at us.ndpaper.com.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING

Precision Digital Printing Go Digital with Precision Digital Printing’s EFI Nozomi C18000 Direct-toTrade Services Precision Digital Printing is making strides to become a best in class, directto-the-trade, digital printing service provider. Our EFI Nozomi C18000 was strategically installed in a state-of-theart, climate controlled, 100,000 sq. ft. facility in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Specializing in vibrant, photo-realistic digital printing services, Precision Digital Printing has been partnering with sheet plants and converters in several states to provide high-quality displays, packaging, and more. Our standard is to provide outstanding quality and white glove service that delivers innovative, cost-effective digital print solutions that set a new bar for your high-quality graphics projects. We are laser focused on digital printing — in fact, that’s all we do! One of the first questions our current partners asked was if we planned on implementing any converting equipment in the future.

Absolutely not! Our direct-to-trade model gives our partners the advantages of digital print without the hassle of adding another large piece of expensive equipment to their production floor.

We purchased our EFI Nozomi C18000 back in the spring of 2018 and designed our facility from the ground up to optimize efficiency and productivity. We have had extensive training for our staff direct from EFI and can confidently say that we believe we have one of the most experienced teams in the world when it comes to the EFI Nozomi. Day in, day out, our sole focus is giving our partners and customers the absolute best quality and service that digital printing can offer. We believe that

digital is the future — and with the vision, equipment, service, and experience we’ve gained over the past year, we are ready to help our partners and customers navigate the challenges and reap the rewards that digital printing has to offer.

Send us an email, give us a call, or stop in for a visit and see what Precision Digital Printing is all about — our door is always open and we would welcome the chance to partner with you for all of your high-quality graphics needs.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

97

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SHARP International SHARP International and LEIPA GmbH: Lightweight 100% Recycled White Top Linerboard.

WHITE AND LIGHT – 100% RECYCLED WHITE TOP LINERBOARD

SHARP International and our partner of 15 years, LEIPA GmbH, are expanding our footprint in North America!

LEIPA’s new paper machine (PM 5) can produce 500,000 tons of 72 Bright uncoated white top linerboard while PM 3 can produce 240,000 tons of 84 Bright double coated white top linerboard.

LEIPA linerboards are a multifunctional, blue-white sheet with a smooth, calendered surface ideal for vibrant, colorful, graphic-intensive packaging. Backside sizing offers clean performance in flexographic, digital and offset printing applications.

LEIPA Classic White (72 Bright uncoated white top linerboard) 33#, 29#, 26# 21# (available soon)

98

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

LEIPA LUX (84 Bright double coated white top linerboard) 41#, 37#, 33#, 29# LEIPA linerboard is the ideal, sustainable solution for: • flexographic printing: pre-print/ post-print • digital printing • offset printing • e-commerce packaging • point-of-purchase packaging • shelf-ready packaging • retail-ready packaging INVENTORY PROGRAM

SHARP International Group combines LEIPA’s quality recycled linerboard with its own logistic and warehouse expertise to provide corrugators with efficient and

effective inventory solutions. SHARP maintains warehouses on the US East Coast, US West Coast and in Montreal to facilitate “just-in-time” delivery of product to corrugators throughout North America. SHARP can tailor an inventory program to your unique needs and ensure the ready supply of white top linerboard to your business.

For more information, contact: Randy Banks SHARP International rbanks@sharp-international.com (757) 410-3601 www.sharpinternationalgroup.com www.leipaliner.com

Leipa’s new paper machine can produce

of

500,000 tons

100% recycled

LIGHT-WEIGHT white-top linerboard for

sustainable,

graphic-intensive

packaging

Leipa Liner is a multi-functional, blue-white sheet with a smooth, calendered surface ideal for vibrant, colorful, graphic-intensive packaging. Backside sizing offers clean performance in flexographic and offset printing applications. Leipa liner is competitively priced with inventory available for immediate shipment.

Leipa linerboard is the ideal, sustainable solution for flexographic printing digital printing point-of-purchase packaging

direct printing offset printing shelf-ready packaging

Leipa Classic White (72 Bright uncoated white top linerboard) Available MSF: 26#, 29#, 33#

Leipa LUX (84 Bright double-coated white top linerboard) Available MSF: 29#, 33# 37#, 41#

For more information, contact

SHARP International Group Randy Banks rbanks@sharp-international.com (757) 410-3601 www.sharpinternationalgroup.com

www.leipaliner.com

SHEETS, PAPER, AND PRINTING THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Sonoco

A Natural Partnership: EcoTect® 100% recycled packaging board and FlexSHIELD™ fully compostable barrier coating As consumer demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, CascadesSonoco, the joint venture of Sonoco Products Company and Cascades, has responded to the marketplace with

100

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

an economical and environmentally friendly solution. The combination of Ecotect® recycled packaging board and FlexSHIELD™ barrier coating provides a functional barrier to water, oil and grease while supporting company sustainability goals as recyclable, repulpable and compostable. Folded containers made from EcoTect and FlexSHIELD are ideal for a wide range of applications like food service trays and takeout bakery products as well as any non-food product where leakage of the contents could affect goods stored in proximity to the container.

EcoTect packaging board is composed of 100% recycled fibers with a minimum of 85% post-consumer recycled content.

In addition to being an environmentally responsible option, EcoTect offers a smooth, consistent surface that offers optimum stiffness, flatness and bending endurance for a variety of converting applications.

FlexSHIELD is a water-based coating designed to be flexible and resist cracking throughout the folding carton converting process. It is engineered to survive multi-directional scores, folds and creases without surrendering its barrier properties. FlexSHIELD coating has been extensively tested on EcoTect packaging board and has passed all recyclable and repulpable testing based on FBA Protocol Procedures. It is FDA, CFIA and EUR compliant, and is microwavable with dry, aqueous and fatty foods.

EcoTect and FlexSHIELD, a natural partnership for a more sustainable world.

For more information, visit www.cascades-sonoco.com or send inquiries to ecotect@sonoco.com or 888-203-6548.

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

APPI Energy

W

ith 23 years of business, APPI Energy has time and time again been one of the top independent energy consulting firms in the U.S. We have assisted numerous organizations by providing data-driven energy procurement solutions. As an independent energy consulting firm, APPI Energy strives to help its clients reduce and manage electricity and natural gas expenses through the procurement of competitive energy supply contracts. APPI Energy maintains a proprietary database of more than 250 million records, enabling our consultants to compare historical and real-time prices in every deregulated energy market. Decisions about when to buy and contract length are based on data, analytics, and expertise. APPI Energy consultants craft solutions that fit each client’s needs. APPI Energy’s operations team gathers competitive pricing from our 36 vetted and approved supplier companies to present the best possible energy solutions for our clients so they can make informed and customized purchasing decisions. APPI Energy’s customer service team will guide clients through every aspect of the procedure and throughout the lifetime of their contract. They assist with account adjustments, verify bill accuracy,

102

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

evaluate government policies for financial incentives and reimbursements for clients, and even determine if a client qualifies for energy sales tax exemptions.

APPI Energy’s work over the past 23 years has earned the endorsement of 158 affinity groups, trade associations, and chambers of commerce. APPI Energy won The Energy Professionals Association (TEPA)’s Agent, Broker, and Consultant of the Year award for 2017-2018. This award recognizes one company on its promise and innovation in fields such as contract negotiation, ethical business practices, and customer service.

APPI Energy goes beyond procurement with their Energy Solutions division that provides advanced services that enhance energy management, tracking, and sustainability. APPI Energy provides efficiency consulting, such as demand response, energy reporting systems, and facility assessments.

APPI Energy works with customers for renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro systems, or biomass facilities. In deregulated electricity states, the percentage of green energy can range from 10 to 100 percent. In regulated states, APPI Energy can assist with the purchase of Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) and carbon offsets.

Since 2003, AICC has endorsed APPI Energy’s consulting program for its members.

Chris Landing, EMP, is APPI Energy’s dedicated consultant for AICC. He has years of experience working with manufacturers of all sizes throughout the U.S. Landing has provided electricity and natural gas supply consulting education, analysis, and solutions to commercial and industrial clients. With years of experience in the energy industry, Landing utilizes expertise and data-driven procurement strategies to provide his clients with powerful energy solutions, designed to help them save time, reduce costs, and create budget certainty.

Landing holds the energy industry professional designation of Energy Management Professional (EMP) through the Energy Professionals Association (TEPA). To learn more about APPI Energy’s consulting program for AICC members contact 800-520-6685 or contact Chris Landing directly at clanding@appienergy.com.

Chris Landing, EMP Energy Consultant clanding@appienergy. com 800-520-6685 www.appienergy.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

Johnson, Kendall & Johnson, Inc.

Safety & Risk Management Product demand in the corrugated box industry has spiked as online shopping is no longer the exception but the rule, and the market is now projected to reach $317 billion by 2023. In addition, this market enjoys a 90%+ recycling rate, making it one of the most sustainably sound products around.

Johnson, Kendall & Johnson (JKJ) has long understood the value of this unique market. An insurance brokerage and risk management firm handling programs for the packaging industry for more than 15 years, JKJ has developed the program insights and expertise necessary to offer reliable insurance and risk management guidance to our

clients, with particular focus on these critical areas: • Workers Compensation Safety • Lock Out Tag Out • Machine Guarding • OSHA Compliance • Confined Space • Forklift Training • Property Insurance Coverage and Guidance • Flood • Warehouse Storage / Racking • Sprinklers Systems • Dust Collection • Auto Insurance Including Driver Safety • Client Contract Analysis We also provide Employee Benefits offerings, including strategic consulting, brokerage and administration services that deliver maximum value to our clients and provide a best-in-class experience for their employees, excel in the health and welfare marketplace, and reduce the long-term costs of insurance.

The Johnson, Kendall & Johnson family of companies, for over 60 years, has grown to be one of the premier insurance brokerage firms in the United States. We’re focused on providing value-added and unique solutions with the most creative talent in the industry. Our associates work with our clients to address their unique issues and needs with service-oriented, value-driven and affordable risk management and insurance solutions, helping them to achieve their goals. Learn more about www.jkj.com.

Insurance — Risk Management — Employee Benefits — Safety To learn more about our service offerings, please contact Doug Friel.

Doug Friel Vice President, Commercial Insurance dfriel@jkj.com Office: 215-579-6439 Mobile: 215-962-9757

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

103

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Mid America Paper Recycling Let Us Turn Your Waste into Wealth Mid America Paper Recycling is a leader in the recycling industry, providing solutions for partners ranging from small businesses to large multinational corporations. Founded in 1926, the company is a fourth-generation independent broker, processor and exporter of recovered paper in the Central United States. Our waste handling processes are proven effective every day in our own facility. Much of the paper waste we handle is sorted, baled and warehoused at our headquarters in Chicago. We utilize our own fleet and select freight partners to transport waste between suppliers, warehouses and buyers.

Our robust recycling program features consultation services, documentation, quantification and presentation of the specific and overall values that can be realized from customer waste streams.

We’re proactive. We develop ideas based on continuous improvement principles.

Take our free Waste Audit Survey, for example. As the first in the industry to create a new benchmarking audit, we focused on tracking and increasing the value of recycling waste streams that large commercial printers and paperboard converters generate. We work closely with operators in folding carton, printing and other businesses that recycle waste paper to create a continuous improvement process that helps them identify where the waste is generated, establish key collection procedures and set objectives that will continually improve their waste stream’s revenue contribution to the business.

The audit survey takes only 10 minutes to fill out online but is comprehensive in scope. In fact, the survey is so easy to use, customers can launch it on their smartphones via a QR code and take the survey immediately.

104

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

The results act as a first improvement step, serving as a “recycling health scorecard.”

After customers take the survey, we rank the answers and average them into five categories to achieve a scale percentage, determining the customer’s overall waste assessment “grade.” We then issue the customer a free report and a plan, customized to upgrade their recycling processes and increase their revenue growth.

And that’s just for starters. The process examines a customer’s operation in terms of company information; organizational goals; logistics; waste volumes; equipment/ labor; financial goals; service; safety; continuous improvement.

The Waste Audit Quality Initiative is something few in the transactional, spot-market-oriented paper recycling business offer their clients.

In addition, we assist customers through our brokerage division, which is a big part of our business. Mid America Paper Recycling has relationships with hundreds of paper mills around the country, and a unique insight into their processes. We help paper suppliers handle waste in a way that maximizes value for paper mills. In return, paper suppliers get a regular buyer for their waste.

Here at Mid America Paper Recycling, we collaborate and share ideas for such programs, and connect the best concepts together to form innovations for positive change.

This is critical; the manufacturing operations of a typical paper or containerboard plant can generate thousands of tons of pre-consumer, high-grade, recyclable paper, production trim waste and paperboard waste annually. Last year, the folding carton industry alone shipped about five million tons of product. This can generate significant revenues for our clients.

To that end, through our understanding of customer challenges in securing reliable revenue streams, we have built many successful strategic growth partnerships. Because when recyclables are wasted, no one benefits. Our goal is to find every angle available to minimize waste, grow revenue and, especially, help the environment.

Let us help you transform your waste streams into value streams.

To learn more about Mid America Paper Recycling and our complimentary recycling audit, call Paul Pirkle, President, at 630-730-9055, email at ppirkle@ midamericapaper.com or visit www. midamericapaper.com.

Paul Pirkle: A 25-year veteran of the printing industry, Paul Pirkle has reaffirmed our strategic focus on continuous improvement principles and established partnerships with many large printing and packaging companies to turn their waste streams into growing value streams. Previously, Paul served as President/CEO of Modagrafics, Inc., Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Buhl Press and Vice President of Commercial Web Sales with MAN Roland.

Paul Pirkle President ppirkle@midamericapaper. com Office: 773-890-5454, x11 Cell: 630-730-9055

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

JD Engineers B.V. Tanabe JD BoxR Specialty Folder Gluer, E-Commerce, and Health And Safety A machine with high output and accuracy and at the same time, more functionality through improved Industry 4.0 controls from JD, combined with the well-known sturdy mechanical design of Tanabe. JD also offers you a total solution for your e-commerce box-styles with all systems (silicon paper spender, barcode labeling, tear-strip, barcode positioning control, and readable barcode detection) integrated into the JD BoxR control.

HEALTH AND SAFET Y IN COMBINATION WITH RISK ASSESSMENT

“JD engineers in the Netherlands has so many years’ experience with Specialty Folder Gluers, offering solutions for technical problems encountered on almost a daily basis with older equipment. Having developed these retrofit solutions, it became clear that they could market these products as complete units as opposed to just offering them as a quick fix.” Risk assessment is a term used to describe the overall process or method where you: • Identify hazards and risk factors that have the potential to cause harm (hazard identification).

• Analyze and evaluate the risk associated with that hazard (risk analysis, and risk evaluation).

• Determine appropriate ways to eliminate the hazard, or control the risk when the hazard cannot be eliminated (risk control).

A risk assessment is a thorough look at your workplace to identify those things,

situations, processes, etc. that may cause harm, particularly to people. After identification is made, you analyze and evaluate how likely and severe the risk is.

When this determination is made, you can next decide what measures should be in place to effectively eliminate or control the harm from happening.

Doeke Holtrop President d.holtrop@jdengineers.nl +31-0-8855-21-100 sales@jdengineers.nl

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

105

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Litho Press Inc. Voted “Best Litho Label and Topsheet Supplier” for 67th year in a row!

OK, so I made that up while trying think of a good headline for this ad. We do strive to be the best supplier to you, our clients. We thank you for that. Since 1953 and 3 generations, we at Litho Press have considered it an honor to serve the corrugated industry with labels and topsheets from our conventional and digital presses. Saving you money, time and headaches is our chief concern.

Please let us know how we can help you and your team today!

Bernie Lacy President bl@lithopress.com 800-631-6468

106

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

ARCH Inc. and materials, issue resolution, or on-boarding the next generation of leadership, Chris delivers programs specific to the converter’s targeted goals and requirements.

ARCH’s customized programs combine classroom and machine-side training to target the client’s core needs and provide the most comprehensive learning experience.

F

ounder and principal of ARCH Inc. Chris Heusch has dedicated nearly a quarter-century to helping innovative Independent Converters across the globe enhance quality, productivity and efficiency, perfect their processes, gain market share, discover and grow new markets and increase profitability.

Keeping abreast of changing technology and best practices can be a daunting task, especially for converters who are focused on the day to day operations of their businesses. This is where Chris’ dedication to continual learning, knowledge base expansion and global network of industry and market experts become very beneficial to the Independent Converter.

“Digital printing on corrugated is a technology and market that is evolving at such a rapid pace that our learning curve is currently nearly vertical. This makes it difficult for converters to run their daily businesses AND stay in tune with the latest evolutions in digital printing technology.”

Prior to the AICC sponsored “Digital Xperience 2019” — of which he was a cornerstone supporter and contributor — Chris visited with digital press

manufacturers and installations around the world learning about the latest digital presses, single pass technology and obstacles that converters faced during their transition to digital.

“The popularity of digital printing is growing rapidly throughout our industry.

We’re still in the learning stages and the markets, niche or more open, are still emerging. We’re making every effort to collect and distill this knowledge into solid business practices.”

The Value of a Global Knowledge Base As international competition continues to intensify, the knowledge of not only best practices, but international requirements, regulations and contacts is invaluable.

With an extensive background in world converting markets, Chris combines his experience and industry knowledge to help converters apply best practices to their operations and bridge international culture and communication gaps.

Strategic Leadership From printing theory and practical application, through process and capital equipment consulting, to vision quest support and assisting converters with maneuvering through the transition into digital production, Chris applies his knowledge working with converters, equipment manufacturers and material suppliers. His network of clients and industry experts is a key resource in finding solutions to complex issues, creating mutually beneficial technology partnerships and lasting relationships.

Working closely with all levels of management and operations, Chris helps organizations define and develop executable strategies, execute focus changes, implement new strategies and troubleshoot processes down to and through the individual job.

Chris Heusch President Chris@archlogic.com 1-435-654-7040 www.archlogic.com

Custom Education & Training Chris provides customized onsite training. Whether it’s refreshing old skills, updating on the latest technology

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

107

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

ARCO/Murray EXPERIENCE A BETTER WAY TO BUILD At ARCO/Murray, we perfected our design-build methodology to provide clients with the best construction experience. As your single point of contact from day one, we provide you with a streamlined project delivery. Our in-house team of experts and trusted alliance partners collaborate to understand your business, anticipate your challenges and create a custom design and construction solution to fit the needs of your corrugated facility.

Our preconstruction services include land due diligence, entitlements for site selection, and existing building feasibility evaluations. Using the latest industry technology, we manage each project’s process design, including facility design layouts and the most effective equipment solutions. Our integrated project team handles a complete design solution as well as the procurement of all necessary building permits – all leading up to the seamless construction of your corrugated facility.

Whether it’s re-tooling, plant build-outs, expansions or green field construction, we have the capabilities to bring your corrugated vision to life.

108

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

ONE COMPANY. ONE IN-HOUSE TEAM. ONE SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT. ONE CONTRACT. Our true design-build approach brings together an integrated, in-house team of experts, eliminating the need for you to manage multiple relationships and coordinate the back and forth communications of traditional bid-build construction. This direct relationship with a single company, who’s responsible for every aspect of your project, means

you’ll get firm pricing sooner and results faster, with much less risk.

• 25% Faster Project Completion • 10% Lower Total Cost • 30% Fewer Change Orders LET US BUILD YOUR NEXT CORRUGATED FACILITY Website & Email: www.arcomurray.com | info@arcomurray.com Telephone: 630-816-2082

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE 

SERVICES

Athena SWC

P

ackaging manufacturers who struggle to fill their sales pipelines with a consistent flow of sales-ready leads have found success when we provide the people, processes, and tools to support all their front-end sales needs. We have experience helping corrugated, point-ofpurchase display, retail packaging, folding carton, rigid box, contract assembly and fulfillment, co-packaging, and private label packaging companies increase their revenues.

Athena SWC’s Total Solution

Your program will be customized to meet your specific sales goals. Pricing is based on a simple monthly fee, and you have the ability to terminate the program (with or without cause) with a 60-day written notice.

Contact us for a personalized webcast to learn more: Todd Zielinski Managing Director & CEO Tzielinki@athenaswc.com 716-799-9324 http://bit.ly/athenaswc_corrugated

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

109

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

CleanPrint Solutions

C

leanPrint Solutions is totally focused on the corrugated packaging industry, we are industry specialists delivering world’sbest-practice patented cleaning systems and do that with a 100% emphasis on developing and supplying environmentally responsible products.

With over 30 years’ experience in the cleaning products industry we saw unsolved problems we could fix for packaging companies that could increase revenue for corrugated plants by millions of dollars annually.

For the last 8 years we have only focused on the box industry and have developed two patented systems/ products for automatically cleaning converters and corrugators.

We believe for companies looking at saving money, the best way to save money is to increase revenue.

We’ll give you “1 HOUR EXTRA PRODUCTION PER DAY” with EVOLUTION BIOCLEAN. For converters we achieve and maintain clean ink lines and pumps, anilox rolls and chambers with a 4 minute full wash and rinse cycle after each print job.

This has been proven in multiple plants and does not take into account reduced ink pump failures, reduced PM cleanup to 15 minutes and other long-term time and cost savings, with reduced anilox roll and chamber replacements.

EVOLUTION BIOCLEAN is the latest patented development in a line of very successful technology to automatically clean everywhere the ink goes giving 1 hour extra production per day — perhaps 50,000 extra boxes a day.

For corrugators, CleanPrint Solutions offer exclusive patented delivery systems and product. EVOLUTION STARCH OFF is an amazing success—hardened

110

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

external starch is softened, liquefied and rinsed away within 30 minutes.

And this is all with eco-friendly nonharmful technology.

EVOLUTION STARCH OFF offers patent pending innovative technology for dissolving starch in your corrugators.

Keeping your applicators clean allows for perfect spread of starch, reducing warp and delamination resulting in stronger board, lower GSM and higher production values.

Our staff skill level is second to none. We employ the specialists to ensure the best possible outcome across all disciplines, so our product and systems remain cutting edge and ahead of the competition, while delivering environmentally friendly and profitable outcomes for our clients.

Clean Print Solutions is used by major international companies such as Pratt/Visy, Orora, Packaging Corporation America, International Paper, Georgia Pacific, Atlantic Packaging, Green Bay Packaging and many independents, through distributors such as CST, Clean Print Chemicals, Harper Love and Sun Automation, to name a few. The corrugated products produced in these plants are global “best quality” and the machinery maintained by their “End-to-end, Cleaning in Place” systems ensures these companies enjoy a continuing sustainable competitive advantage.

We continually strive to be ahead of the game and use science and chemistry to design custom made solutions for our client’s individual situations and in an industry first, in most cases we will install delivery technology with no up-front cost, to deliver a cleaning system that is vastly superior to anything

else on the market, provided you engage our appropriate supply agreement.

Clean Print Solutions is an international business with clients in Canada, USA, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand with expansion into South America, Japan and Europe in the near future.

For more information contact Geoff Literski on +61-416-275-634.

Geoff Literski Director geoff@ecochem.com.au Mob: +61-416-275-634

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE 

SERVICES

Corrugated Gear and Services

ONE GEAR FOR ALL YOUR CORRUGATED NEEDS For over 30 years, Corrugated Gear and Services has served the corrugated industry with not only quality replacement parts, but unmatched excellence in the rebuilding and upgrading of machinery from roll stands all the way up to complete Flexo Folder Gluers

from most manufacturers. With specifications for over 800,000 parts, an in-house manufacturing/fabrication facility, and a fully capable ReBuild center, Corrugated Gear and Services is the name you can count on. Providing the best service available is what keeps the GEAR turning, and we take pride in doing so daily.

Contact our sales team at 770-4758929, or send us an email for more info: cgsparts@corrugatedgear.com Visit us online: www.corrugatedgear.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

111

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Corrugated Solutions

C

orrugated Solutions (CS) provides its customers services & products to help build, run, and maintain a successful box plant.

CS partners with many vendors to provide these services. Michael Klear, President, stated, “We pride ourselves with working with the best suppliers in the corrugated industry to provide our customers the services they need to keep their plants running efficiently and profitably.”

CS is very excited to now represent Latitude Machinery Group which includes their high-speed Flexo Folder Gluers. With over 100 installations in the US, the LMC machines are very well established and now backed by the

112

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

service & support of SUN Automation Group. “We are thrilled to offer LMC machines to our customers. The total cost of ownership is incredible,” said Cody Brant, sales associate.

CS offers many ways to help automate the corrugated box plant. From pre-feeders, robots, bundle breakers, doublers, and flat-top conveyors, the team at CS is able to offer robust solutions to make box plants more efficient.

Through our partner, WSA, we are able to offer an alternative to some of the more established competitors.

Kristian Dillard, sales associate, says, “Through SUN, we offer products that can bring new life to older machines.

We offer new ink systems, digital registers, feeder upgrades, set-up computers, & PLC upgrades. It’s a great option for plants looking to extend the life of their current machines.” One of the more exciting opportunities for plants right now is Inside Print. CS is able to offer retrofits to existing machines to give customers the ability to print on both sides of the box in one pass.

CS can also build plants from the ground up by partnering with ARCO/ Murray, who provides design-build services to the corrugated industry.

ARCO offers services that range from site selection & greenfields to full renovations of existing facilities, and they recently completed a 1.2mil sq. ft. building in Monroe, LA. “We’re always looking for new innovations and solutions for our customers.

We want to offer our customers the best solutions to problems they face every day in their plants,” said Michael Prassel, COO. Simply Packed, a sister company of CS, can offer corrugated box plants any of their consumable products at very competitive prices. Box plants could see significant cost savings on stretch film, strapping, tape, shrink film, & many other consumable supplies that may be needed.

To learn more about Corrugated Solutions, please visit corrugatedsolutions.net.

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SERVICES

KPI Incorporated KPI Incorporated – Out of this World Service and Products!

The KPI service and sales model is this: Bring world class products and services to the North American Corrugated Manufacturing Industry.

Serve our customers in a Collaborative, Open, Honest, and Accountable way. We call it KP-“EYES” – Another set of eyes on your project from beginning to end. The result:

“Out of this World Key Performance Indicators in your plant.”

Our current lineup of products and services includes: BRICQ brand corrugator belts, PIC industrial contracting, VOKORE brand machine blades and knives, corrugator belt maintenance services like lagging, cut and lace, flocking, belt installation, in-plant trouble-shooting, and factory layout recommendations/ engineering/consulting services.

Visit us at www.

KPIIncorporated.com, Email hello@kpiincorporated.com, or call +1-317-288-0470 and request our popular and interesting FREE 3D Brochure with classic red/blue 3D glasses or a quote on one of our products or services.

PIC Industrial Contracting

BRICQ brand Corrugator Belts

VOKORE brand machines blades and knives

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

113

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Oberg and Associates, LLC

T

he landscape of the Corrugated Industry is changing at an exciting pace.

The issues you manage as a business owner are complex and dynamic: mergers and acquisitions, market shifts, digital printing, capital investments, and succession planning, just to name a few.

The solutions you develop to address these challenges are all based on one

114

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

common assumption: having the right talent available to execute your vision.

The perfect company vision is useless without the right team to drive it home. A team with industry experience, a motor to rise to challenges as they arrive, and the ability to see your vision through.

Neither Microsoft or Amazon would have made it out of the garage without the help of strong and willing teams. I imagine none of your companies did either.

Do you have the time, or knowledge of the invisible talent market to provide yourself the means to execute on your vision?

We’ve been recruiting in the corrugated industry for over 30 years now, and there are several things we still can’t do: We can’t remove warp from your board. We can’t reduce your returns and allowances.

We can’t lower your $/msf.

But, we can partner with you to identify, attract, and hire the talent that will.

We will provide certainty of outcome.

It all starts with a conversation …

Oberg and Associates, LLC, is the dominant recruiting resource in the North American Corrugated Industry.

We are located in Addison, TX. Our client and employee relationships are based upon three non-negotiable principles: • Open and Honest Communication • Mutual Respect • Hard Results Roy Oberg has been recruiting in the Corrugated Industry for over 30 years. He has authored numerous articles and presentations on the topics of recruiting, employee retention, and talent trends. He can be reached at roy@obergassociates.com or 972-239-3315 ex. 1.

SERVICES

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Working Well Plantilla A3

A3 Template

Title: What Are You Talking About?

1. Background Why are you talking about it?

Título: ¿De qué Habla?

Owner / Date

Propietario / Fecha

5. Contramedidas Propuestas

1. Antecedentes

5. Proposed Countermeasures What is your proposal to reach the future state, the target condition?

¿Por qué habla de eso?

¿Cuál es su propuesta para alcanzar el estado futuro, la condición tomada como objetivo?

How will your recommended actions affect the root cause to achieve the target?

2. Current Conditions Where do things stand today?

-Show visually using charts, graphs, drawings, maps, etc.

2. Condiciones Actuales

6. Plan What activities will be required for implementation and who will be responsible for what and when?

What are the indicators of performance or progress?

What is the problem?

-Incorporate a MAPP, Team Charter, calendar or similar diagram that shows actions/outcomes, timeline, and responsibilities.

May include details on specific means of implementation.

4. Analysis

7. Followup

¿Qué actividades se requerirán para la implementación y quién será responsable de qué y cuándo?

- Muestre visualmente usando cuadros, gráficas, dibujos, mapas, etcétera

¿Cuáles son los indicadores de desempeño o avance?

-Incluya una MAPP, Carta del Equipo, calendario o diagrama similar que muestre las acciones / resultados, cronograma y responsabilidades. Puede agregar detalles de medios específicos de implementación.

¿Que es la problema?

-Choose the simplest problem-analysis tool that clearly shows the cause-and-effect relationship.

raining, Coaching, and Resources for leading, teaming, and working well.

Working Well is a resource for best practices in leadership and process improvement. When a leader, a team, or a company needs an objective, databased assessment of the current state of operations and culture, Working Well provides the brutal facts with a kind and actionable delivery. Training, coaching, and resources develop the ability to eliminate obstacles and sustain more effective and profitable results. Working Well exists to get you unstuck and accelerate productivity.

Dr. Scott Ellis describes himself as a Culture Tech, “because my job is to help you fix what is ineffective about the way things are getting done and then I get out of the way. Also, because

7. Seguimiento

¿Qué resultados específicos se requieren?

What issues can be anticipated?

-Ensuring ongoing PDCA. -Capture and share learning.

-Who is on point to measure effectiveness?

¿Qué problemas pueden preverse?

-Garantizar la continuidad del ciclo PDCA. -Capturar y compartir el aprendizaje.

-¿Quién es el encargado de medir la eficacia?

4. Análisis ¿Cuál es la causa raíz del problema?

What is the root cause(s) of the problem?

T

6. Plan

¿Dónde están las cosas actualmente?

3. Metas / Objetivos

3. Goals/Targets What specific outcomes are required?

¿Qué acciones recomendará que afecten la causa raíz para lograr el objetivo?

Source: LEI

- Elija la herramienta de análisis de problemas más sencilla que muestre claramente la relación causa - efecto.

mention of the term Organizational Psychology tends induce yawning.”

The focus on progress toward greater productivity involves assessment, education, coaching, and resources that make it simple to reach goals that were previously difficult. Common to all of these is the need to equip willing workers with experience in the use of critical thinking tools. One example is the A3 which is used to propose, plan, and report on improvement projects. When used consistently, tools like this help to motivate workers and grow capability on your team. A new guide to growing the tools of judgment in your team will be published in early 2020 under the working title: Teach Me to Think Like You, Said Nobody Ever.

Working Well serves to assess, make a plan, educate, and monitor development

WW

Source: LEI

of leaders and teams. Books, articles, and process improvement tools are available at Workingwell.bz and on Amazon. Working Well intends to make best practice common practice.

Scott Ellis, Ed.D., provides the brutal facts with a kind and actionable delivery when a leader, a team, or a company needs an objective, data-based assessment of the current state of operations and culture. Training, coaching, and resources develop the ability to eliminate obstacles and sustain more effective and profitable results. Working Well exists to get you unstuck and accelerate effective work.

He can be reached at 425-985-8508 or scott@workingwell.bz.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

115

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

People’s Capital and Leasing Corp.

Are You Positioned to Fully Leverage Today’s Market Opportunities?

Where will your business be in five years?

The growth forecast for the corrugated packaging industry is strong due to a number of drivers that include: • Explosive growth in e-commerce, from direct ship-to-buyer to buy online/pickup in store • Rising need for sustainably produced, biodegradable shipping and storage materials • Increasing demand for packaging that helps businesses stand out in a crowded, highly competitive marketplace All of these represent tremendous opportunities. But realizing them will mean meeting the challenges that come along with them, such as: • Economical production at scale • Thinner yet stronger packaging • Customized, retail-ready printing with high impact and at a competitive cost Succeeding in this environment will require an unprecedented level of innovation and agility, driven in large part by advanced production technologies and people who can get the most from them. But how will manufacturers get equipped and train their teams to stay on the cutting edge without driving their financial position to the bleeding edge?

At People’s Capital and Leasing Corp, we believe a strong financial partner with real expertise in the corrugated packaging industry will be key to positioning manufacturers for rapid growth without compromising budgets, cash flows, and operational flexibility.

With a packaging team that has worked with the industry for more than 80 years, People’s Capital and Leasing Corp deeply understands not only the

116

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

current challenges and opportunities in the corrugated packaging marketplace but also the context and history that inform a strategic path forward.

What will that path look like?

Affordably acquiring the needed technology, keeping it up to date, and ensuring that teams can fully utilize it will require the kind of financing strategy we’ve developed for the industry — one that includes elements like these: • The flexibility to choose from loans, leases, and SBA agreements as the situation warrants, along with expert insight on the relative merits of each option in a given scenario • 100% financing for equipment to relieve the upfront cash burden of equipment acquisitions and position businesses for maximum flexibility as opportunities arise and evolve • Customizable terms that include options like progress payment financing, competitive fixed or floating rates, synthetic leases, operating leases, and other alternatives that give manufacturers a best-fit solution to their needs now and the agility to modify their solution as business needs dictate • Local decision-making from a financial partner that holds transactions in its own portfolio • Asset-secured lending that doesn’t require businesses to secure acquisitions with blanket liens or real estate Is your business positioned to fully leverage the opportunities presented by an evolving marketplace? As a lender committed to facilitating growth in the corrugated packaging industry and a member of AICC for more than 20 years, People’s Capital and Leasing Corp is here with industry experience, finance resources, and strategic insight to help you drive exceptional results now and in

the years to come. To start a discussion, contact us today.

Tom Davies, SVP Bridgeport, CT 203-232-6018 Tom.Davies@peoples.com Tony Castellanos, VP Overland Park, KS 913-484-4444 Tony.Castellanos@peoples.com Tom Emery, VP Atlanta, GA 678-576-8166 Thomas.Emery@peoples.com Jeff Morrison, VP Bridgeport, CT 203-339-1006 Jeffrey.Morrison@peoples.com People’s Capital and Leasing Corporation is a subsidiary of People’s United Bank, N.A. Application and credit approval required.

Credit subject to approval.

Member FDIC.

There’s only one way to finance your business.

The right way.

Equipment Financing

We’re in business to help your business. Let’s start with equipment financing1 designed specifically for the corrugated packing industry and a suite of tools that can make your business flow more smoothly. People’s Capital & Leasing provides solutions that are customized to help your business meet unique financing and lending challenges and capture fast-moving opportunities.

We’re experienced and we have the tools to accelerate your success. Talk to us today to learn more about our flexible options.

Let’s talk.

Tom Davies Senior Vice President thomas.davies@peoples.com

Subject to application and credit approval.

1

©2019 People’s United Bank, N.A. | Member FDIC |

Equal Housing Lender

SERVICES THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Printers 401k

PRINTERS 401K

®

Powered by Diversified Financial Advisors LLC A Registered Investment Advisor

800-307-0376 www.Printers401K.com

Strategic 401k Plan Management It’s no secret that Company Management teams have a lot going on. Each day, they are pulled in many directions, from managing benefit programs to recruiting employees in a tight labor market.

As plan sponsors, they may find it difficult to juggle a healthy, successful retirement plan on top of these obligations. However, it’s crucial for the Company’s success for plan sponsors to give their retirement plan and employees the extra attention they need.

The good news is, an effective retirement plan isn’t out of a plan sponsor’s reach—with a Smart 401k Plan Design, an organized course of action and the help from The Printers401k®, plan sponsors can improve their plan and help employees be prepared for retirement.

The Printers401k® Program provides a complete solution to retirement plan management. Including accepting Fiduciary responsibility, taking your name off the 401k Plan document, shielding you and your staff from personal liability which you are subject to. “If you are signing your plan’s 5500, you are the responsible party.”

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Easy Administration and Operation • Transfer Fiduciary Liability

• Improve Investment Choices • Reduce Total Plan Cost • Integrate Payroll • Improve Overall Service

Easy Transition • Your time is valuable, that’s why the Printers 401k® Retirement Plan Experts do the work for you.

Protection from Fiduciary Liability • The framework minimizes the adopting employer’s involvement while maximizing fiduciary protection. Employers are responsible for submitting ongoing contributions while the Program’s Retirement Plan Experts manage the rest.

Joe Trybula, CFP®, AIF®, is the Vice President of Diversified Financial Advisors, LLC, and a Registered Investment Adviser with more than 20 years of experience.

He specializes in providing professional management of corporate retirement programs, including investment advisory management and consulting services.

Working closely with his clients, he focuses on organizing, formalizing, implementing and monitoring programs designed to meet their ERISA fiduciary responsibilities.

Contact Joe Trybula CFP®, CPFA®, at 800.307.0376 or joe@printers401k.com to learn how the Printers 401k® program could benefit your organization.

Certified as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, an Accredited Investment Fiduciary® and Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor, Joe has advanced training, education and knowledge in fiduciary standards of care and their application to the investment management process.

Reduce Plan Costs • Each plan is maintained as a single retirement plan, which will allow multiple unrelated employers to aggregate plan assets to achieve economies of scale for better pricing, services & investment access.

• Program Fee reductions occur as the individual plan assets migrate through pricing tiers.

Effectively Prepare Employees for Retirement • One-on-one enrollment meetings • One-on-one participant education • Live support service team • Personalized interactive web experience

COMPLIANCE | OPERATIONS | RESPONSIBLE PARTIES WHO IS RESPONSIBLE? PLAN ROLE

TYPICAL PLAN

402(a) Named Fiduciary

Employer

3(16) Plan Administrator Fiduciary

Employer

3(38) Investment Manager Fiduciary

Employer

Discretionary Trustee

Employer

ERISA Attorney

Employer

OUR PROGRAM

Printers 401(k) ® Plan Experts1

1 Printers 401k® Plan Experts 402(a) Named Fiduciary: PISTL Service Corp accepts the role of an ERISA 402(a) Named Fiduciary and assumes discretionary authority for nearly all the plan sponsor’s responsibilities. Exceptions include internal activities such as timely deposit of salary deferrals.

ERISA 3(16) Plan Administrator: PISTL Service Corp accepts the role of the named “Plan Administrator” and principal fiduciary for administrative functions of the plan, relieving you and your staff of these plan administration duties.

Third Party Administrator: PISTL Service Corp accepts the role of the Third-Party Administrator to run many day-to-day aspects of your retirement plans.

ERISA 3(38) Investment Manager: Diversified Financial Advisors, LLC, serves as the Investment Manager, taking full fiduciary responsibility and discretion for the selection and monitoring of the investments.

They assist the Plan Sponsor through the entire process, from creating their specific plan provisions to enrollment services for plan participants, including individual face-to-face enrollment sessions.

Discretionary Trustees: The Printing Industries 401k Trustees take the role as the Discretionary Plan Trustee and provide oversight on the plan service providers.

ERISA Attorney: Is retained to ensure the program is up-to-date and in regulatory compliance.

118

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Kiwiplan People | Knowledge | Software | Services

Expanding Connections Welcome AICC Members to 2020. This is the year of SuperCorr, and we at Kiwiplan are looking forward to meeting with our customer partners, vendor associates, and prospective new clients.

Many AICC and industry leaders have and are still engaged in significant CapEx and OpEx investments including merger and acquisitions, new plants, new machines, infrastructure improvements, and evaluation of current ERP and Manufacturing Execution Software capabilities to optimize the investments being made. As our current and prospective partners perform due diligence, we appreciate the opportunity to share common vision and a sustained partnership.

For over 35 years, Kiwiplan’s growth in the corrugated packaging industry continues to enjoy expansion from our original parent Amcor’s AUS/NZ-based IT department, through a management buyout, acquisition by multi-national conglomerate Illinois Tool Works, and the top private equity firm in the world, Carlyle Group.

In April of 2018, Kiwiplan, as part of the Signode Industrial Group was acquired by Crown Holdings based in Philadelphia, PA, a global packaging firm specializing in a wide array of innovation strategies. We are excited to continue this new phase with the support of Crown Holdings to organically increase resources in all of Kiwiplan’s global divisions to match the industry’s ongoing investments.

We are proud to say effectively all resource components and tasks that our client/partners enjoy are from an inclusive workforce.

Management, engineering, research and development, coding, quality assurance, account executives, program and project managers, system matter experts, industry consultants, hardware technicians,

120

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

interface specialists, and global support staff are all full-time Kiwiplan employees.

We are experienced in numerous solutions. Kiwiplan’s business and manufacturing design architectures target elasticity and constant improvements to our product suite. Our original design for operations in box and converter plants (still utilized today) include multi-plant/ route/step and pass as the standard. “Like sheet plants with a corrugator in the building.” The variation to this theme is driven by the industry suppliers who are building enhanced machines that are one-pass and high-speed for many operations being invested in. The end to end approach for our customers include comprehensive business system ERP and manufacturing execution MRP platforms, directly integrated throughout the Kiwiplan modules.

Our current phase of development emphasizes increased cohesion of financial status and exposure, cost estimating, pricing management, and automated customer service functions.

Manufacturing integration extends plant automation and user interaction wherever possible for seamless connectivity to the scheduling programs and order forecasts to as many of the components in the plant to minimize or eradicate keying or setup configuration errors. Real-time two-way communications between Kiwiplan and partner suppliers is now the default approach vs. the exception. This enables accuracy of data event collection on production, downtimes and waste events so that information is not only updated around the clock, but also regenerated back into the business system for calculating post-production costing. All of which can be consolidated at an enterprise level.

Key strategic development areas include: • Continued expansion in sheet converting operations. Visitors to SuperCorr

will be able to see this firsthand in Orlando-based DusoBox. • A comprehensive Business Intelligence data warehouse.

• A customer and sales force portal • Connectivity with industry design systems.

• Administration of solid fibre top sheet ordering, roll sheeter and laminator scheduling, and sheet/ roll consumption.

• Inline system connectivity for quality control and measurement systems with SPC performance statistics.

• Tactical dashboards for Consolidate Waste, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and Total Effective Equipment Performance (TEEP).

• Key electronic links with digital printer equipment to support advanced automation, scheduling solutions and costing impact required for digital lines and operations.

• And one of Kiwiplan’s most successful products, our Enterprise Supply Chain Simulator for roll stock ordering has extended to predictive management of material ordering, dynamic MRP stock lines, reserve time capacity with the ability to forecast at plant, industry, customer and specification level.

These are exciting times. Please contact us to explore a solution for your business.

Dana is a 37-year IT veteran with 24 years in the corrugated packaging industry at Kiwiplan Inc. Dana Disney Senior Sales Executive Kiwiplan Americas dana.disney@kiwiplan. com 513-265-8807

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Advantzware

Advantzware For Your Future Advantzware has continued to improve the business using new technology, innovation and the best team we can find to deliver on our value proposition to our customers. Part of that value proposition we offer is using our experienced team over the past 30 years in business to bring practical solutions to the market with a sole focus on delivering value that our customers can use every day. Our solution is focused on efficiency, automation and allowing for growth while providing the best customer service available.

Our account management team continues to contact every customer every month to review changes, keep them updated on our plans and just to check on their business needs to be sure that we are aware of areas where we can improve our relationship together. We treat every customer as special and our entire team continues to provide a personal

122

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

approach to our business partnership.

This includes automated upgrades to allow every customer to share in new features added with each release to stay current with technology and market trends in the dynamic packaging market.

The system feature list has grown considerably with new capabilities, increased quality and consistent delivery to meet our customer expectations while managing their costs. We provide access to multiple environments to allow testing of new features and releases, and build custom reports or integrations with ODBC, JDBC, web portal access or integrated REST API. Our API allows real time interaction with other systems in an easy to use API and will release our new Zapier tools to integrate with more than 1,500 different applications.

Over the last year, we have continued to grow organically as well as through strategic acquisitions which are

integrated into the system within 90 days of acquisition. Our newest acquisition provides for a unique solution to increase productivity by tracking all the key events directly from the machines to report MyFloorScore™ for each plant, piece of equipment, person and crew that facilitates the actual data collected to provide an easy way to quickly define the goals and track the key factors each company wants to improve. Setting or changing your desired criteria allows a flexible and user managed method to track the desired results over time.

The Advantzware commitment remains focused on only one thing — our customers. Contact Advantzware, where we live by our only goal — Customers First, Customers for Life.

Sales@Advantzware.com 215-369-7800 Visit Advantzware.com

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

Amtech Software necessary to efficiently trim all paper grades through built-in intelligence. You will achieve better, more cost-effective runs that minimize wet end changes, converting backlog, WIP, and congestion on the plant floor.

CONVERTING SCHEDULING—INCREASE THROUGHPUT.

Amtech’s Solutions Converting Scheduling is an automated and integrated plant planning system that utilizes intelligent algorithms for automated scheduling. It sorts order operations at machine centers assuring total balance and optimization of your operational workload, which simplifies day-to-day tasks of your scheduler, and ensures better performance.

AMTECH SMART FACTORY SCHEDULING SOLUTIONS INTELLIGENT. AUTOMATED. PRODUCTIVE.

Amtech’s Smart Factory Scheduling Solutions Suite is the industry’s most advanced and integrated scheduling system. By starting with a complete roll stock supply chain system, you can proactively control and manage your inventory while creating confidence in schedules for the corrugator, converting, and shipping. When producing schedules for your corrugator and converting operations, the system utilizes its built-in intelligence to deliver multiple solutions ranked based on your specific business needs. This allows your scheduler to adapt more quickly to the plant’s needs while balancing customer demands with variable constraints in both production and shipping. With complete integration and information delivered in realtime across the enterprise accuracy is

improved. Your entire operation can plan effectively and communicate the right information to your customers to ensure on-time delivery of high-quality product.

ROLL STOCK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM— ROLL STOCK SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTION.

A highly optimized supply chain management and inventory management solution, the Amtech Roll Stock Management System, delivers valuable information to help your organization make effective business decisions to decrease costs by increasing production, reduce waste, and improve product quality. With EDI and integration to upstream corrugator(s) you are able to plan and track consumption down to the unit level.

CORRUGATOR SCHEDULING— INTELLIGENT AUTOMATED SCHEDULING.

SHIPMENT PLANNING—ALWAYS ON-TIME.

By providing shipping personnel with access to accurate production information, displaying all stages of the production lifecycle, shipping can generate shipment plans with the right information. Whether your plant operates on a push or pull philosophy, Shipment Planning communicates your plans, in real-time, to every group in the plant and provides for automated cubing and trailer optimization. Your customers who use Amtech’s Customer Care Portal will also see this accurate data in real-time.

Michael DeNicola Director of Customer Engagement mdenicola@amtechsoftware.com 215-630-9540 x 1210

Solutions Scheduling for Corrugators provides plant schedulers with the tools

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

123

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

Arden Software

The software company with a passion for packaging Arden Software is a leading software company specializing in CAD and CAM software for the packaging industry.

Founded in 1988, we are an international leader in the development of structural design and workflow management systems, and our Impact software is used all over the world.

For more than 30 years, we have supplied design and manufacturing applications to the worldwide packaging sector, and drawing upon our 50-year background in die-making, we have created software that works perfectly for those who work in the industry.

From desktop CAD to web-based workflow management systems, our suite of cutting-edge software is used by packaging designers and die-makers alike.

We’ve recently unveiled the latest release of our CAD software — Impact 2019 Release 2 — bringing with it a range of new features and product enhancements designed to streamline packaging design workflow.

This latest release includes improvements to graphic handling, an extended range of file formats for exporting, 3D model assembly enhancements and a new Bill of Materials module for Impact.

Jim Silianoff, president and CEO of Arden Software North America, said: “We released Impact 2019 earlier this

124

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

year, bringing with it a whole host of feature enhancements which have been very well received by designers and die-makers, so we are confident this follow-up release of our leading CAD software will help further improve the creative process for Impact users.

“Once again, we have responded to feedback from our customers to develop a range of software enhancements that will simplify the packaging design process and improve the user experience in the fastest, most efficient way.

“From improved graphic handling to extended file support, the latest version of our innovative CAD software promises to deliver a real ‘impact’ for users.”

The Arden Software Development Team is now working on Impact 2020, due for release next year, and will include Arden’s most significant Impact CAD development undertaking to date — a next generation parametric design engine guaranteed to revolutionize the packaging industry.

This highly anticipated update, which enriches the entire use of the product’s design and editing capabilities, moves away from the legacy history-based approach to parametrics, capturing the designer’s intent as they draw, and also offering the unique advantage that any existing or imported drawing can be resized quickly and effortlessly.

Also making an impact in the packaging software industry is Arden’s powerful project management software — WEBcnx.

The web-based platform, created exclusively for the packaging sector, integrates with Arden’s packaging CAD/CAM software Impact, as well as other workflow systems, acting as a virtual project manager, enabling

customers to manage their operations from wherever they are in the world.

WEBcnx 2019 is out now and for the first time has been optimized for mobile, making it quicker and easier than ever before for users to manage their packaging production from any place, at any time.

Mr. Silianoff added: “Our WEBcnx software is renowned for its powerful workflow automation capabilities, designed to keep projects moving and streamline our customers’ workflow in the packaging supply chain.

“From order entry to design, WEBcnx links the different parts of a business together, ensuring people know what to do and when to do it.”

Powering our WEBcnx product is the CAD automation engine nServer. Sharing common genes with Impact, nServer offers a highly scalable solution for automating CAD related processes. That includes generating 2D and 3D designs or layouts for estimating or even automated digital production, or offering up a connector to other business systems reliant on design information. nServer has therefore become the tool of choice for a growing number of online packaging design sites, or “web-to-pack” solutions, due its scalability and link to a central CAD database of thousands of pre-configured design styles.

Visit www.ardensoftware.com to find out more about our range of software solutions for packaging.

Jim Silianoff President and CEO Arden Software North America jsilianoff@ardensoftware. com T +1-435-709-3101 M +1-435-655-1149

THE BIG ASSOCIATE ISSUE

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

Tilia Labs

Bringing Artificial Intelligence to Production Planning As digital printing and SKU proliferation grow exponentially, reliance on human decision-making for increasingly complex short-run planning and imposition is becoming unsustainable. Tilia Labs is pioneering Artificial Intelligence to empower converters to make faster, more accurate, cost-based decisions that enable them to estimate faster, plan smarter, and manufacture profitably.

Tilia Labs’ flagship software, Tilia Phoenix, is innovative new planning and imposition software using Artificial Intelligence to directly address today’s challenging production landscape.

Rather than human calculated nested layouts, Phoenix automates layouts according to production requirements.

Its AI algorithms factor in parameters such as job specifications (quantity, dimensions, colors, substrates), print devices, and die cutting equipment and automatically generate nested, printready PDFs. To handle the complexity of latest-generation digital presses, Phoenix

also generates production-ready die files with smart barcodes and registration marks ready to go to your die vendor or automated, pallet-to-pallet digital finishing system.

Imposition AI is the power behind the capabilities of Phoenix. Its intelligent, machine-learning algorithms evaluate millions of possible scenarios to converge on globally optimal results. Imposition AI has become especially useful for evaluating conventional versus digital job routing through production. Simulations based on unique manufacturing constraints and characteristics of the respective processes, the output devices, inks, substrates, cutting tables, and dies required are performed in minutes.

The same heuristic AI algorithms can be used to automatically select the right die for a job. Using the industry’s first Intelligent Pattern Matching and Shape Detection Technology, Phoenix can extract the die shape from each product and search its inventory of existing dies for the associated multi-out rotary or flatbed die with the click of a button. It will then

find matching products from the order and automatically calculate the distribution of the products into cavities on the die to increase the margins on challenging short runs.

Phoenix provides further value when evaluating jobs for digital die cutting. Out-of-the-box integrations with industry-leading digital cutting equipment allow users real-time feedback into how long production jobs will take to digitally cut. With this information, users can accurately evaluate time and cost of producing on their digital cutting equipment versus conventional die cutting for a given set of jobs.

Built with an open-API architecture, Phoenix is ready to quickly integrate with existing MIS and workflow solutions.

Tilia Labs continues to partner directly with industry-leading suppliers to expand this plug-and-play functionality.

Phoenix consistently finds better solutions that simply cannot be achieved by traditional software or manual planning processes. As a result, return on investment can be measured in months or even weeks through time savings, fewer print runs, and reduced materials costs and waste.

Founded in 2012, Tilia Labs is a software company based in Ottawa, Canada, dedicated to developing disruptive technologies for the competitive advantage of print service providers. Connectivity is the cornerstone of everything we do, and ease-of-use our guiding principle.

George Folickman Director, Sales and Business Development sales@tilialabs.com

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

125

Members Meeting

Photos courtesy of AICC.

AICC Members Learn Corrugator Best Practices

Seminar attendees absorbed invaluable training at the Four Seasons Learning and Manufacturing Facility.

T

o a sold-out group of 30 packaging professionals, AICC taught Best Practices for Corrugator & Maintenance Operations October 9–10 at the Green Bay Packaging De Pere Division in De Pere, Wis., and at BW Papersystems’ Four Seasons Learning and Manufacturing Facility in Phillips, Wis. “It is a course I needed,” said Chad Roswell, corrugator department lead at Kruger Packaging. “I have done corrugator training, but this involves everybody doing simple things and how to change their habits.”

The first day of the experience was held at Green Bay Packaging. Zach Van Den Heuvel, plant engineering manager at Green Bay Packaging, welcomed the group. Scott Ellis, Ed.D., of Working Well interviewed participants as to what they came to learn. He also challenged them to return home with an implementation plan.

Steve Nerney, installation training leader at BW Papersystems, began a discussion

126

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

on singlefacers. After a review of the technology, he discussed a maintenance checklist and the four items that make the bond—PEST: pressure, energy, starch, and time. Nerney covered the solutions to common singlefacer issues, such as roll-unit lubrication schedule, correcting scraper settings, and maintaining proper chamber pressure. He also gave tips on correcting issues with the pressure chamber seals.

Next, Jon Klaas and Mat Parkin, both territory managers at Lube-Tech, shared fundamentals of lubrication with attendees.

They began by explaining the uses of lubrication, which include preventing wear, reducing friction, removing heat, and preventing corrosion. Then they reviewed lubricant composition, the refinement process, and additives. Klaas and Parkin also compared oil to grease, allowing attendees to understand which to use in various situations.

One hot topic of the day was steam, presented by Rick Duke, senior process

specialist–corrugating, Kadant Inc. He covered the importance of the boiler firing rate, safety relief valves, and the careful balance that must be found when using chemical additives. His presentation included the specific conductivity and pH levels needed for success. He also offered a simple solution to troubleshoot the steam systems—gauge accuracy. Duke also discussed testing and offered a list of top 10 best practices, which included starting a boiler slowly, blowing out all strainers at least monthly, and checking traps monthly.

After lunch, attendees were invited to tour the Green Bay Packaging facility, where they saw how to use process tools and conduct testing. The afternoon training began with corrugator belt care, presented by Michael Harris, president of KPI Incorporated. Harris began by helping attendees determine the best corrugator belt for their home plants by covering the different types—woven, needled felt, and lightweight—then he moved the

Members Meeting

Seminar attendees toured Green Bay Packaging and BW Papersystems.

discussion into solving starch buildup issues, before reviewing belt caliper and measuring tools. He also offered tips to protect the belt when shutting down the corrugator, which included insulating the belt from prolonged heat and leaving paper under hotplates. Harris finished his presentation with key performance indicators.

The participants were then bussed to BW Papersystems corrugator headquarters and Four Seasons Learning and Manufacturing Facility, where they enjoyed networking over dinner at the Lakeside Lodge.

The following morning began with tips and tactics for knife cut length accuracy

by Brett Bergstrom, training specialist at BW Papersystems. He focused on locating knife wear parts, predicting and scheduling maintenance, and changing parts prior to failure. Bergstrom helped members learn tips to minimize board crush before offering more than a dozen operator maintenance items that will increase production. He also shared visual cues for the roll-and-cut quality, highlighting when action is needed.

Then Nerney taught about the splicer process. He began with a review of the four M’s of the splicing process: materials,

machines, manpower, and methods.

He then offered detailed information about each phase, including operator best practices, which included ensuring proper roll preparation, consistent splicing preparation, machine cleanup, and “process ownership.” Nerney completed his presentation by sharing a splicing process checklist.

Bergstrom returned to explain how to maintain a sharp slit edge, head setup accuracy, and improve board quality during his presentation, “Slitter Scorer: Staying Sharp.” He compared carbide and steel blades. Then Bergstrom gave attendees more than a dozen easy checks to perform on the sharpening system and anvils to optimize performance. He also discussed preventative maintenance and the role of operators and maintenance personnel. Attendees were able to see examples of worn-down parts to allow them to know what to look for. He completed his presentation by walking through the why and how of slitter calibration.

He then began the final technical presentation of the seminar, which focused on the stacker. Bergstrom discussed the many attributes of production, such as

dry end speeds, knife, flat belts, and the lift bay, that affect stack quality.

Bergstrom shared various pictures of rolls, outfeeds, and shingling belts and asked attendees to identify the problems they saw that would impact stacker quality.

Attendees then toured BW Papersystems, where even seasoned corrugator professionals were able to see components of the process as they were prepared for the field, which offered an instructive view of the machine’s inner workings. Finally, on the bus ride back to Green Bay, Ellis helped individuals plan their implementation of best practices in their home plants.

AICC thanks Green Bay Packaging and BW Papersystems for their contributions to the success of this seminar.

More information about the seminar can be found at www.aiccbox.org/calendar.

Questions about seminars or webinars and the value a well-trained workforce brings to a company can be directed to Taryn Pyle, director of education and leadership development, at tpyle@aiccbox.org, or Chelsea May, education and training manager, at 703-836-2422 or cmay@aiccbox.org.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

127

New & Returning Members

Welcome, New & Returning Members!

SOUTHERN STATES PACKAGING ROSS LYON Purchasing & Product Development PO Box 650 Spartanburg, SC 29304-0650 Phone: 864-579-3911 www.sspc.biz

FRUIT GROWERS SUPPLY CO. MARK McKINNEY COO 27770 N. Entertainment Dr. Valencia, CA 91355-1092 Phone: 818-986-6480 www.fruitgrowers.com

ITB PACKAGING LLC JEFF TISCHLEDER President 147 E. 6th St. Holland, MI 49423 Phone: 616-392-3480 www.itbpackaging.com

AMG PACKAGING & PAPER COMPANY LIMITED BRANDON HUGH Director 10 Retirement Crescent Kingston, St. Andrew Jamaica Phone: 876-968-6672 www.amgpackaging.com

PROFESSIONAL IMAGE, INC. CYNTHIA CALVERT President 12437 E. 60 Tulsa, OK 74146 Phone: 918-461-0609 www.pi-pkg.com

128

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

THACKER INDUSTRIAL ROY THACKER President 6513 Midway Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76117 Phone: 817-834-2323 www.thackerindustrial.com

S & S PACKAGING PRODUCTS, INC. MARK STUART General Manager 10549 Crosby Circle Cranesville, PA 16410-0234 Phone: 814-756-3926 www.sandspackaging.com

Thank You Emerging Leader Supporters These companies are contributing to the future of the industry through the AICC Emerging Leader Program.

Thank You to the Sponsors of the 2019 Emerging Leader Field Trip

For more information, contact Scott Ellis at leaders@aiccbox.org.

AICCbox.org/Leader

When You Invest & Engage, AICC Delivers Success.

BUILD A FUTURE FOR GROWTH & SUCCESS AICC 2020 Spring Meeting & 7th Annual Independents' Cup Charity Golf Tournament The Omni La Costa Resort | Carlsbad, CA April 1-3, 2020

HOTEL DEADLINE 3.6.20 AICCbox.org/MEETING

INNOVATION TAPPI CorrExpo Review: Unsung Heroes of the Industry

BY ROY OBERG AND TERESA HUNDT

L

ast October I attended TAPPI’s CorrExpo, in Denver, Colo., and as I was there I was reminded that this year we will have our 2020 AICC/ TAPPI SuperCorrExpo, September 13–17, in Orlando, Fla. In Orlando this year as in Denver last fall, our industry's suppliers will be out in force showing their latest wares to help our businesses succeed in an increasingly competitive packaging world.

Then my mind wandered some more; these people are the secret unsung heroes of our industry.

Unsung Heroes All kinds of vendors are in your facilities every week. Without these men and women, the corrugated industry could not function. They travel around from facility to facility and install new equipment, fix existing equipment, or test to make sure everything is running the way it’s supposed to.

Vendors do jobs that the companies in the industry are either unwilling or ill-equipped to do themselves.

Now at first glance, this article probably seems self-serving—I am a vendor

partner to the corrugated industry! And I do sometimes feel like the unsung hero.

But today’s newsletter isn’t about me; I’m not sweating my butt off in different box plants every day.

Many people in the industry do not give these partners a second thought, in the same way they do not pay that much attention to the cashier at the grocery store or the mail carrier that delivers their packages. They want to run purely transactional business with their vendors.

Give them what they ask for, nothing more, nothing less, and then leave, please.

This is a huge missed opportunity from a professional standpoint, though.

Get to Know Your Vendors In the same way that a good recruiter gets to know the facilities and company cultures in the industry, the other types of partners we’re talking about today are tasked with a similar challenge. Sure, most box plants are similar in makeup, but each one, even within the same company, can have vastly different ways of doing things.

This can be due to the plant mix, machine capabilities, management of the facility, or any of a hundred other factors.

The point is that in order to be a good partner—and if you’re reading this, you’ve been around the industry long enough to know good partners from bad vendors—you have to be an expert in your industry. Because of this, your vendor partners are a wealth of untapped knowledge.

That issue you’ve had on the corrugator for the past couple of weeks? I bet you have a service partner that has seen it before and can provide counsel.

Having issues with uneven printing off your flexo? Well, I bet your ink supplier has seen it before, and it might have nothing to do with the ink.

Even if there is not a problem at that moment, having a good relationship with your service partners will allow them to make suggestions to make things better.

Maybe the product you are using is working fine, but there is a cheaper product that can get the job done without losing any effectiveness. Good partners will make that suggestion, even if it costs them a few dollars in the short term.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

131

AICC Innovation

On top of the mechanical, electrical, or chemical expertise in your industry that can add practical value, these individuals bring another huge piece of value to the table that often goes unused: They have their finger on the pulse of the industry.

Because they travel in and out of so many facilities, vendors can be great resources to know what is going on in the industry around you.

If you are running a facility and you have a good relationship with your vendors, they may tell you that your competitor across the street just laid off their sales force. Suddenly, you know their customers are vulnerable—or whom to call for the sales opening in your facility.

If you are thinking about a job change, the vendor partners you work with may

be able to give you the 411 on a facility you are interviewing with.

Conclusion People ask me all the time how I know everything that’s happening in corrugated.

The answer a lot of the time is that I have amazing vendor partnerships that help me fill in the blanks of what is going on in the industry.

Because of this, I greatly value and respect the relationships I’ve built with OEMs and vendors over the years. They know what’s happening in the industry, they are a wealth of knowledge, and they are genuinely nice people (for the most part—you know who you are!).

The bottom line of all of this is that if you are just using your vendor partners for purely transactional business and not

building a good relationship with them, you are missing out.

And I promise that your competition is not.

See y’all in Orlando for SuperCorrExpo 2020!

Roy Oberg is company leader, corrugated, at Oberg and Associates. He can be reached at roy@ obergassociates.com.

Teresa Hundt, senior consultant at Oberg and Associates, assisted with this article. She can be reached at teresa@obergassociates.com.

The next generation WANTS to grow.

Help them.

Emerging Leaders, those roughly 35 years of age or younger, meet regularly at AICC’s National Meetings in sessions specific to their needs; they participate in active industry training programs; and they provide valuable input to the future of our industry. We develop at least 3 EL programs per year and occasionally offer ELs exclusive discounts on programs that we think are most relevant to them. Employees of AICC General and Associate Member companies are invited to apply. AICCbox.org/ Leaders When You Invest & Engage AICC Will Deliver Success.

132

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

SKI WITH AICC

WEST COAST SKI MEETING January 30- February 3, 2020 Telluride, CO

ALL MEMBERS WELCOME! HOTEL DEADLINE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019

Learn more: AICCbox.org/calendar

134

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

FORWARD FOCUS

Taking stock of the year to come

By Robert Bittner

A

sk industry veterans about their outlook for the next 12 months, and you’ll likely hear a wide range of predictions based on their respective markets, products, and company goals. Yet, for 2020, there was a surprising amount of agreement among corrugated, folding carton, and rigid box producers across the country.

Jay Carman, president of StandFast Packaging Group and AICC chairman, says, “We’re positive for the coming year,” summing up the general attitude. “I don’t anticipate a huge jump in business, but we are looking for some steady growth.”

“2020 will be a good year in the corrugated business,” says Greg Tucker, chairman and CEO of Bay Cities, although he believes the year may not take off immediately. “It will start slow through the first quarter, then boom in the next three due to the election-year lift that we should see.”

“I’m not seeing anything earth-shattering on the horizon,” Carman adds. “I don’t see any of the current markets being on the way out. The food and beverage market seems to be pretty strong. And,” he says, “I see continuing growth with e-commerce.”

In that, Carman is not alone.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

135

“Corrugated is the foremost recycled package. I see our industry getting the word out by printing ‘Recycle This Box’ on these wonders of shipping. We will then take back what the plastic world has attempted to steal from us.”

— Greg Tucker, chairman and CEO, Bay Cities

E-commerce Impact For many boxmakers, e-commerce will continue to make an impact on the industry, contributing to steady growth and even innovation.

Based on what she is hearing from customers, Cassi Malone, strategic account manager with Corrugated Supplies Co., says, “I think e-commerce will continue to be huge. I still see meal-plan boxes everywhere, and subscription plans like Stitch Fix are still growing.

“Overall, I would say that e-commerce is a driving force in our industry,” she continues. “It’s continuing to help us evolve, improve delivery time, and become more inventive and proactive to add value for customers. When Amazon is shipping anything from a baseball to furniture, it helps to maximize packaging and cost. We’ll continue to see innovations in that area that help save on freight, fillers, and waste, and emphasize sustainability.”

Sustainability will continue to be a key selling point in the coming year. Tucker notes, “E-commerce packaging will get a few headwinds from plastic packaging substitutes. However, due to the lack of sustainability with plastics, this will get both consumer and governmental blowback. There is nowhere to go with plastics when we look at recycling; yes,

136

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

they are recyclable, but they are not recycled. The solution is for consumers to return the used plastic packaging back to the store.

“Corrugated is the foremost recycled package,” he says. More can be done to promote that fact. “I see our industry getting the word out by printing ‘Recycle This Box’ on these wonders of shipping.

We will then take back what the plastic world has attempted to steal from us.”

While an explicit sustainability message may appeal to some markets, Tucker understands that more will be required for boxes that hope to deliver customer value as well as products. “E-commerce is here to stay, and it’s growing. We will see that growth become 20%–25% of all retail purchases in the next few years. At the same time, more highly decorated packaging will be required to serve this growing trend. From the Bay Cities perspective, we see the use of experimental packaging finally catching wind. This will include a mix of augmented reality, near-field communication (NFC), QR codes, text to play, and Digimarc—utilized by both large and small brands looking for that personal touch of individualism to drive the experience.”

Malone agrees, noting, “Consumers are loving the unboxing experience.

When I think about corrugated in 2020,

I think we’ll still be dealing with trying to beautify boxes.”

That applies just as much—if not more—to the rigid box and folding carton segment of the industry. Cynthia Calvert-Copeland, owner of Professional Image Packaging, says, “With distributors such as Amazon encouraging secondary packaging, e-commerce businesses can now utilize great product packaging for in-store displays while at the same time designing them to aid in product protection during transit. The ‘first-touch’ experience is not lost with e-commerce. Packaging will only become more important to maintain a sense of ‘full value’ for customers buying online.”

Even so, Calvert-Copeland believes rigid box and folding carton business may experience more market fluctuation than corrugated over the next year. “As we look ahead into 2020, there are distinct shifts in the industry, specifically in the wants and needs of our customers,” she says. “As their products adapt with the market and customer trends, so too do their expectations for packaging. The next 12 months will likely see fluctuation in rigid box pricing as companies prioritize their packaging being manufactured in the United States and emphasize affordability. Folding cartons will continue to rise due to

e c n e i r e p ITY L A E R E NEW

TH

E-Commerce Xperience

Feb. 18-20, 2020 Irving, Texas

AICCbox.org/ecommerce

“I believe we’ll see more box companies partnering up with digital providers to capitalize on the market without needing to purchase and hire or train their own people. That would be a smart move.”

— Cassi Malone, strategic account manager, Corrugated Supplies Co. their versatility and cost-effectiveness when manufactured domestically.” She believes this will be especially true in the natural-food market, a segment that is still showing growth.

Digital’s Year?

For years, boxmakers have been watching digital printing increase in popularity to become an important adjunct to flexo presses for sample printing and economical small runs. And every year one question arises: Is this the year digital printing reaches its tipping point, achieving the high quality and lower costs that would set it on equal footing with traditional methods?

“I know everybody’s talking about digital, but we’re just not there yet,” Carman says.

“Digital printing will play a big part in e-commerce,” Tucker believes. “The advent of digital printing has allowed converters a new avenue to go to market.

Large, single-pass printers are popping up everywhere. As these machines evolve, we will see better reproduction, lower consumable costs, higher speeds, and high resolution.”

Although its time has not yet arrived, Carman points out, “We’re always looking at digital printing. It’s not a matter of if; it’s when the critical mass will happen. We’re monitoring it,

138

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

undertaking for companies to take on. So investigating it, utilizing it. But when it I believe we’ll see more box companies comes to investing in digital printing—it partnering up with digital providers to would be premature for us to do that at capitalize on the market without needing this point. So we’re partnering more than to purchase and hire or train their own we have in the past for production runs, people. That would be a smart move.” samples. Right now, partnering makes more sense.”

Final Thoughts Calvert-Copeland is in a similar “I don’t think I see any great new technolsituation, noting that, while increasingly ogy or machinery coming to boxmaking,” popular, the technology still needs time Carman says, “because, honestly, there’s to mature. “While we don’t currently already really great machinery out there, utilize digital printing, adoption will no question. If anything, we have an only continue its exponential growth as abundance of great equipment. It’s just the technology becomes more and more very expensive.” affordable. Overall, the challenges of Noting the way the industry has digital—mainly format size and quality— contracted over the last decade, he adds, will still need to be resolved.”

“I think there’ll continue to be some Malone, however, suggests that consolidation, but I don’t foresee anyperhaps a winner-takes-all approach to thing major. I think a lot has already the digital-versus-flexo question could happened—and will continue to—but be set aside in favor of a more utilitarian I think it’s going to slow down. For me, view. In other words, the answer need a bigger concern is that we’re seeing a not be digital or traditional. Perhaps number of new mills and new compathe best solution is simply choosing the nies. I just hope there’s enough demand right tool for the job. “I think digital and to support the capacity coming online. traditional printing can co-exist with one “At StandFast,” Carman continues, another and complement one another,” “we’ve been expanding, adding equipshe notes. “I don’t think it will be the ment. Business has been good. Lead competition people thought. So I think times have been stretched, though, and we’ll continue to see more graphics and the business has been a little bit volatile digital-printing improvements, as well as in terms of overall volume. It’s like it’s traditional printing. been too much or not enough. We’d “I think digital printing is a very hard like to see more consistency and steadier thing to adapt to,” she adds. “It’s a huge

business across the board. And, of course, we’d like to see steady growth.”

“Prices are always going up, and we’re always trying to add more value to service,” says Malone. “People are expecting more now. For one thing, customers want everyone to model Amazon’s two-day delivery, which puts pressure on everyone up the supply chain. So I’m most excited to see how we can do even better with focusing on the customer experience as a whole—improving each of the touchpoints for customers.”

Calvert-Copeland adds, “Looking into 2020, I am incredibly hopeful for the continued growth of economical and environmentally friendly paper options over plastics and nonrecyclables.”

Tucker echoes that. “I would like to see our industry embrace the many opportunities our substrate brings as a sustainable solution for a growing, consumer-driven market. We need to be proud of our accomplishments with this medium.” In addition, he says, “I would like to see us employ [more] young people and women in our facilities.”

Considering the future of the industry in general, Carman says, “I’m excited about AICC and my new role as chairman. The Association is doing a lot of good things for the industry. It’s a dynamic organization and a dynamic industry. There’s a lot of innovation happening among the independents that’s cool to see. There are challenges, of course. But the independents are thriving.”

“I think there’ll continue to be some consolidation, but I don’t foresee anything major. I think a lot has already happened—and will continue to—but I think it’s going to slow down.”

— Jay Carman, AICC chairman and president, StandFast Packaging Group

Robert Bittner is a Michigan-based freelance journalist and a frequent BoxScore contributor.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

139

The Associate Advantage

The Importance of Supplier Relationships

BY JOE MORELLI Joe Morelli Huston Patterson Printers Vice Chairman jmorelli@hustonpatterson.com

PAT SZANY

American Corrugated Machine Corp.

Chairman pszany@acm-corp.com

GREG JONES

SUN Automation Group Secretary greg.jones@sunautomation.com

Tim Connell A.G. Stacker Inc. Director tconnell@agstacker.com

DAVE BURGESS

JB Machinery Immediate Past Chairman DBURGESS@JBMACHINERY.COM

140

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

C

ould your company use a few hundred thousand dollars, or possibly even millions of dollars, to put toward your bottom line? No, I’m not selling some type of pyramid scheme—just hear me out.

What if I told you that if you communicated better with suppliers, trusted them more, and worked more closely with them to reduce costs, you could save your company this kind of money? This is exactly what the North American Automotive OEMSupplier Working Relations Index® Study did this past year, and for the first time, dollar figures were attached to the study. The study’s author, John Henke, used a formula to determine the value of supply chain management after interviewing hundreds of suppliers in several areas related to communication, help, trust, and other factors. The results in the auto industry were staggering.

If Ford’s score had increased as much as Toyota’s and Honda’s, the Dearborn, Mich., automaker would have added more than $354 million to its bottom line. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) would have earned an additional $661 million, and General Motors (GM) would have earned more than $750 million.

At Huston Patterson, we have dozens of active vendors whom we rely on day in and day out to help us succeed.

We place tremendous value on their services, which can be best represented by the Vendor of the Year award we give out each year. Now, of course, the numbers related to the Big Three automakers are much greater than

ours at Huston Patterson; however, the principles of supply chain management and vendor relationships are the same, which ultimately has led to a better bottom line for us.

In my experience, if we as business owners want to reach the high goals we have set for our companies, great supply chain management and improving our vendor relationships are essential. GM, Ford, and FCA lost the opportunity for millions—will you?

AICC has a network of nearly 200 Associate members who proudly provide the general membership with services, equipment, and materials that help businesses such as yours succeed.

Each one of us is eager to engage, build trust, and work together to find solutions to your biggest issues. In addition to offering the expertise in our particular discipline, we often have our fingers on the pulse of the corrugated industry, which can provide value well beyond normal transactional business.

The best Associates will engage and invest in your business in order to best understand how to help you succeed.

Lean on these people. Let them in, and create a dialogue that challenges them to bring value. By doing so, I am confident you will find a group of people who are genuinely interested in your success, which will ultimately lead to results that positively impact your bottom line.

Joe Morelli is vice president of sales and marketing for Huston Patterson Printers and is vice chairman of AICC’s Associate board.

Thank you Education Investors These companies are making a significant contribution to the online education available to all AICC members.

For more information, contact Mike D’Angelo, President, 703.535.1386 or mdangelo@aiccbox.org.

International Corrugated Packaging Foundation I N T E R N AT I O N A L

PACKAGING

CORRUGATED

F O U N D AT I O N

ICPF to Promote Corrugated Packaging Careers to 500 Students

T

his coming February 27, ICPF will conduct its annual Teleconference on the Business of Corrugated Packaging & Displays and the Career Opportunities. As in past years, 450–500 packaging science, graphic design, marketing and sales, supply chain management, packaging design, business, industrial and chemical engineering, and other students and faculty from 18–20 college campuses are expected to participate. This annual event is not a webcast, but a live video conference utilizing professional WKAR TV personnel and TV broadcast equipment at Central Michigan’s public television studios for twoway interactivity.

After their presentation, industry panel speakers Bryan Hollenbach (Green Bay Packaging) and Rich Ford (Packaging Corporation of America), and student moderator Erin Wilson (Virginia Tech packaging science, Spring ’20, and former student intern for ICPF, AICC, Pratt Industries, and Buckeye Corrugated Inc.), will address live questions from students on each of the participating campuses.

Campuses scheduled for participation include Appalachian State University, Bowling Green State University, California Polytechnic State University, Clemson University, Dunwoody College of Technology, Indiana State University, Illinois State University, Lewis-Clark

State College, Michigan State University, Millersville University, North Carolina A&T University, North Carolina State University, Pittsburg State University, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, University of Florida, University of Texas at Arlington, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Virginia Tech, and Western Michigan.

The Teleconference will conclude with ICPF’s Student Design Presentation Competition. Up to four student teams that participated in AICC’s 2019 student design competition will be tasked to show, tell, and sell their entries by explaining the objective, the research conducted, design, and other background.

Students to Receive Travel Grants to Attend ICPF Student/Executive Dialogue Dinner

O

n February 26, up to 35 top students from ICPF’s partner universities around the country will join visiting corrugated packaging executives in East Lansing, Mich., for ICPF’s Student/Executive Dialogue Dinner on corrugated packaging careers. Ten or more of the students who earlier have

demonstrated an interest in a corrugated packaging career upon graduation will be provided ICPF travel grants to participate in the dinner, along with up to 25 top Michigan State University (MSU) packaging engineering and sales students. The next day, the students will join the 100 or more MSU packaging students

in the public television broadcast auditorium to view ICPF’s Teleconference, which will connect an additional 450–500 students from their remote campuses. ICPF Corporate Partner firms seeking more information on potentially participating in the dialogue dinner should email info@icpfbox.org.

Don’t Delay—Recruit 2020 Summer Interns and 2020 Graduates Now

T

hroughout the year, ICPF has over 700 students and upcoming graduates from 35 or more universities in its corrugated packaging network who wish to enter the

142

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

corrugated packaging and displays industry. These students rely on ICPF to alert them to specific openings in our industry. Therefore, ICPF’s Career Portal and Résumé Bank offer unique

opportunities to fulfill your entry-level and student internship needs. In fact, in recent years, an average of seven qualified applicants have applied for each entry-level position and student

International Corrugated Packaging Foundation I N T E R N AT I O N A L

PACKAGING

CORRUGATED

F O U N D AT I O N

internship posted on ICPF’s Career Portal. And once a position is posted, the ICPF partner firm then has access to ICPF’s searchable Résumé Bank, which has over 100 current student résumés for your review.

Student intern candidates and upcoming 2020 graduates already are actively seeking positions for this spring and summer. Do not delay in posting your student internships and anticipated entry-level openings for plant operations, sales, packaging

design, graphic design, customer service, supply chain management, business office, or related needs. For more information on using ICPF’s recruiting resources, contact info@icpfbox.org or call ICPF at 703-549-8580.

Thank You for Making ICPF’s Holiday Weekend in New York a Success!

I

CPF wishes to thank the 2019 registrants and sponsors for making ICPF’s 12th annual Holiday Weekend in New York another sellout and one of the most successful to date. Established in 2007, the annual New York events have combined for a net return of over $1.44 million to support ICPF initiatives.

The 2019 event sponsors included Pratt Industries, BW Papersystems, Fosber America, Bobst North America, Gerber Technology, Greif, Packaging Corporation of America, and Smurfit Kappa.

Corporate registrants and financial supporters included Amtech, Atlas Container, Arden Software, Balemaster, Bobst North America, Buckeye Corrugated Inc., BW Papersystems, Cascades Containerboard Packaging, Corrugated Replacements Inc., DiTech, EFI, Fosber America, EAM-Mosca, Gerber Technology, Göpfert Maschinen, Green Bay Packaging, Greif, Hood Container, JB Machinery, Kiwiplan, Kruger, Landaal Packaging, Packaging Corporation of America, President Container, Pratt Industries, Signode, Smurfit Kappa, StandFast Group, Sumter Packaging, Testing Machines Inc., Wasatch Container, WestRock, the Fibre Box Association (FBA), and AICC. We also wish to thank AICC, FBA, BCN, Container-Board.com,

Many corrugated manufacturing and supplier firms send multiple couples to ICPF’s New York holiday event who return year after year. While not every couple can participate each year, the event continues to grow with additional new couples who wish to join in this unique industry experience.

First-time corporate participants in 2019 included Balemaster, EAM-Mosca, and Hood Container.

Corrugated Today, NV Publications, PPI Publications, and RISI for providing promotional assistance at meetings, in publications, and on websites throughout the year. Please mark your calendar for ICPF’s next Holiday Weekend in New York, scheduled for December 11–13, 2020.

Richard Flaherty is president of the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation.

BOXSCORE www.aiccbox.org

143

The Final Score

Worker Training Is Important

A

ICC receives large amounts of information, data, studies, consultant reports, etc. from inside and outside the paper-based packaging industries. Much of it we try to share with you.

I recently came across the Harvard Business School’s Future of Human Work Workers Survey.

From that study, here is the chart of what U.S. workers identify as impactful forces and when those forces will affect them. This data is derived from workers at all levels in an enterprise. It is very instructive for AICC members.

Based on most “impactful” criteria, U.S. workers identified that more ongoing training at work is required today (30%) and in under five years (45%). A sizeable majority, 75%, of your employees want you to provide them with more ongoing training. Fortunately, AICC has you covered with 60-plus online courses for you to share with your team. One-quarter of these courses are available also in Spanish.

Those of you who know me know my passion for industry education, going back to my years of service on the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation board of directors, including a term as chair. Listen to your employees and train them—all of them. The chart above shows the opportunities and threats that they perceive for themselves in service to your business. Take advantage of all resources available to you, and make training a priority.

I was very pleased to see the U.S. worker putting the customer in their view of impacts as well. They identified sudden shifts in customer needs as being an impactful force on them. Worker training will make them more agile in the face of sudden shifts. In anticipation of changes in customer behavior, AICC also has you covered as we share a tremendous amount of information on industry and market trends. We enlist subject-matter experts to speak on these topics at meetings, at seminars, in publications, in webinars, and at your plants. As an example, you’ll begin to see materials shortly on AICC’s upcoming E-Commerce Xperience in February (www.e-comxp.com).

You lead, but count on AICC to help you stay in front.

Michael D’Angelo AICC President

144

BOXSCORE January/February 2020

AD Name of Ad

Randy Banks Sharp International

757 650 9905 rbanks@sharp-international.com www. friese-rockwelle.de

THE

Let’s print it.

Sure, we’ve got new facilities in Dallas and New Jersey, boasting the highest speed and best quality large format printing in the market, plus a plethora of other cool new stuff...but rest assured, you can expect the same LPC quality you’ve grown accustomed to over the last century. What you decide to do with all our new capabilities is your business.

Meeting your expectations is ours.