TODAY’S DECORATING & ASSEMBLY SOURCE
2019 JANUARY/FEBRUARY
Buye r Guid s e Issue
Anti-Counterfeiting for Plastics Evolution of Pad Printing Future of Industrial Inkjet In-House vs. Custom Decorating
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Contents January/February 2019
COVER STORY Technology
page 6
Breakthrough Anti-Counterfeit Technology for Plastics Products When it comes to supporting brand strategies and reducing the risk of fraud, anti-counterfeiting authentication technologies are crucial.
DEPARTMENTS
FEATURES Ask the Expert
page 12
Q&A: Pad Printing vs. Digital Inkjet for Direct-to-Plastic Printing Can pad printing and digital inkjet technologies work together? Plastics Decorating spoke with Julian Joffe of Engineered Printing Solutions to find out.
Viewpoint
page 46
Equipment Highlight
page 14
Pad Printing
Association Product
page 32 page 36
When it comes to decorating plastic products, molders must weigh the pros and cons of using an in-house team or sending itmes out to a custom decorator.
Industry
page 52
Tech Watch
page 61
2019 Plastics Decorating Buyers Guide
Calendar Marketplace Supplier Quick Links
Focus
page 16
The Price of Printing – In-House vs. Custom Decoration for Plastic Parts
page 23
Assembly
page 40
(SIMPLESTAKE’s Impulse Staking Technology)
page 63 page 64 page 66
Correlating Ultrasonic Weld Quality with Melt Layer Thickness To ensure weld quality, controlling the process and selecting welding parameters are crucial for determining melt layer thickness.
Trends
page 48
Evolution of Pad Printing As pad print technology continues to evolve, taking advantage of those advancements is key to remaining competitive.
Management
page 54
Using a B.O.L.D. Approach to Succeed in an Unpredictable Business World To thrive in an unstable business environment, developing strong leadership skills is critical for success.
Strategies
page 56
Anticipating the Future of Industrial Inkjet with InPrint USA InPrint USA provides a look at the future of inkjet, including growth, challenges and future opportunities.
Read Plastics Decorating at plasticsdecorating.com or download the Plastics Decorating app. Cover photo depicting Snowleopard technology courtesy of The Sabreen Group
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 3
VIEWPOINT January can be a tough month. Those New Year’s Resolutions that seemed like such a great idea are now more of a challenge than you’d hoped. The snow that seemed so festive in December isn’t such a joy. And, the hard work of building on the successes of 2018 has begun. Luckily, the plastics industry is prepared to meet those challenges with the tools you’ll need in a solid educational lineup. SPE’s ANTEC 2019 is first on the agenda, coming to Detroit in mid-March. For four days – March 18-21 – plenary speakers, technical sessions, an exhibit floor and student posters will provide a deep dive into the latest advances in the industry. Then, June 2-4, SPE’s Decorating and Assembly Division will hold its 2019 TopCon in conjunction with the In-Mold Decorating Association’s Symposium. The event will be held in Franklin, Tennessee, and will feature tabletop exhibits, papers and workshops that are focused on plastics decorating and assembly topics. Each of these events provides the opportunity to network with industry suppliers and peers, while making sure your business stays on top of the latest trends and research. To help you get a jump on new technologies, this issue of Plastics Decorating focuses on pad printing, with articles on the evolution of pad printing and the ways that it can work together with other decorating technologies such as digital inkjet. There is a discussion on the need for increased product security due to the rise of counterfeit products, along with suggestions on the latest security features. Plastics Decorating also sat down with several companies to discuss the pros and cons of using a custom decorating service vs. doing the work inhouse. Finally, InPrint takes a look at the future of industrial inkjet – just in time for its annual conference, which will take place April 9-11 in Louisville, Kentucky. The Plastics Decorating staff will be in Detroit and Franklin, so be sure to say hello and let us know what we can do to help make 2019 a success for your organization.
Dianna Brodine, managing editor, dianna@petersonpublications.com
padprintpros ISSN: 1536-9870
January/February 2019
Published by: Peterson Publications, Inc. 2150 SW Westport Dr., Suite 101 Topeka, KS 66614 (785) 271-5801
www.padprintpros.com Call: 517.467.5340 e-mail: padprintpro@gmail 4 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Website: www.plasticsdecorating.com Email: publish@petersonpublications.com Editor-in-Chief Art Director Jeff Peterson Becky Arensdorf Managing Editor Graphic Designer Dianna Brodine Kelly Adams Editor Sales Director Brittany Willes Gayla Peterson Circulation Manager Assistant Editors Brenda Schell Nancy Cates Lara Copeland Technical Editor Scott Sabreen, The Sabreen Group Plastics Decorating is published quarterly. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without written consent from the publisher.
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TECHNOLOGY
Breakthrough An -Counterfeit Technology for Plas cs Products by Scott Sabreen, president, The Sabreen Group
T
he Global Brand Counterfeiting Report 2018 states the amount of total counterfeiting globally has reached to $1.2 trillion in 2017 and is bound to reach $1.82 trillion by the year 2020, which includes counterfeiting of all equipment and products from military defense to consumer goods. As per the 2017 report, the amount of sale of counterfeit products through e-commerce platform is $280 billion1. Counterfeiting threatens the global economy and public health through the production of inferior products that circumvent consumer protection regulatory channels. No single anticounterfeit technology can effectively protect all products and circumstances. A layered approach that combines multiple features into the product and packaging works best. This tactical methodology is ideal for plastic products that have value-added decorating and finishing. This article introduces a new anti-counterfeit technology and examines three levels of authentication security for plastics products. Introduction Authentication technologies are critical for supporting brand strategies and reducing the risk of fraud. Anti-counterfeit features enable the authentication of an item and function as a deterrent to anyone considering counterfeiting a product based on the difficulty or cost involved. The growth in counterfeit products can be attributed, in large portion, to the fact that counterfeiters employ sophisticated technology in manufacturing and packaging their fake products. Some operate entire production plants. Despite this epidemic problem, there are currently no global standardized anti-counterfeit identification criteria, and efforts to tackle counterfeits have focused primarily on making packaging difficult to imitate. It is imperative that new and more sophisticated technologies be introduced in the war against counterfeit. One new covert optical security technology, Snowleopard, is presented below. Anti-counterfeiting technologies Security features can be divided into three levels, i.e., Level 1 Security (L1S) (Overt), Level 2 Security (L2S) (Covert) and Level 3 Security (L3S) Forensic. These three levels of security in combination provide comprehensive, layered security protection solutions. Figure 1 highlights authentication features examined in this article, i.e., optical security, security printing, security inks and chemical taggants. Overt and covert security authentication features are effectively incorporated into layered protection. Overt techniques are
6 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Figure 1. Anti-counterfeiting overt-covert technologies
clearly visible and do not require detection devices. Covert technologies typically require specific equipment to be verified, as the details of the technology are not disclosed. Most of the recent developments in overt and covert technologies have embedded hidden features to make them more difficult to be illegally replicated. Featured technology – optical security (covert) A new, state-of-the-art covert technology – Snowleopard – has been introduced whereby submicron microstructures “image/ logo/text codes” are permanently etched into polymers, thinfilms, metals and glass products. Polymer materials can be transparent, translucent or opaque (any color). Authentication, by way of an invisible security code, temporarily appears when vapor is applied by mist and rapidly disappears in seconds as moisture evaporates (Figure 2). No authentication instruments are necessary. This covert feature is deployed worldwide in specialized applications in which authentication is simply performed via “vapor breath,” and is ideal for companies requiring brand
Figure 2. Permanent, invisible micro-etched codes temporarily appear when vapor is applied by mist, then rapidly disappear as moisture evaporates (left and middle). At the right is a vapor mist example. Photos courtesy of The Sabreen Group.
protection in underdeveloped countries. The technology is easily integrated as stand-alone or part of a layered defense. Submicron security codes are etched into the molded product itself. Alternatively, codes can be etched into tamper-evident security labels. The process is non-contact and conducted at atmospheric conditions. No inks, solvent chemicals, films, labels or lasers are involved. The delivery format is performed inline or offline. Tabletop-sized industrial equipment requires only electricity. A second example of optical security authentication is optical variable devices (OVDs). OVDs are complex security images
that exhibit various optical effects depending on the amount of light striking the OVD and the angle in which the OVD is viewed. OVDs cannot be photocopied or scanned and cannot be accurately replicated or reproduced. Many features have 3D effects and color-changing properties. OVDs, similar to holograms, generally involve image flips or transitions, color transformations and monochromatic contrasts. The construction is typically composed of a transparent film (as the image carrier), plus a reflective backing layer, which is typically a very thin layer of aluminum or copper, to produce a feature characteristic hue. Additional security features may be added by the process of partial de-metallization, whereby some of the reflective layer is chemically removed to give an intricate outline to the image. The reflective layer can be so thin as to be transparent, resulting in a clear film with more of a ghost reflective image visible under certain angles of viewing and illumination. For plastics products, a powerful layered defense strategy combines OVDs (holograms) with submicron etched codes (via Snowleopard) to create tamper-evident security labels. Submicron codes can be etched into the product and/or a feature in the OVD label. Secure adhesive labels have specific text built into the layered self-adhesive construction and, when peeled or removed, they exhibit the word “VOID” in both the removed film and the adhesive layer left behind. The text “VOID” could be replaced by customers’ brand, logo or message. Layered substrates – commonly polyester or biaxially-oriented polypropylene (BOPP) face materials – gain significance since they can be uniquely customized with infinite color combinations and metallization.
Figure 3. Example of OVD (Courtesy of Kinegram® security device by OVD Kinegram AG)
Security printing technologies: micro printing and nano laser marking Micro/nano printing, including laser engraving/marking, utilizes single-point font sizes with ultrahigh resolution designs.
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 7
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TECHNOLOGY
Figure 4. At the left is guilloche via pad printing. The image at right is magnified.
One example is guilloche printing, intricate and complex geometric patterns that consist of numerous interwoven fine lines (see Figure 4). Each pattern is uniquely generated, therefore exact reproduction is nearly impossible. Effects are often combined with rainbow coloring. Security ink technologies include: UV-sensitive inks, thermochromic, photochromic, luminescent, fluorescent, iridescent, phosphorescent, etc. UV- and fluorescent-sensitive inks are available in various colors and glow under different wavelengths of UV light, while invisible to the naked eye. For example, a pad, screen or gravure printed thermochromic ink graphic/logo will change color (discoloration reaction) simply by rubbing a finger on the printed area. Each secure ink chemistry, utilized alone or in combination, combined with security printing technologies offers powerful authentication. Nano laser engraving/marking On-product marking by laser of micro/nano text is so small – less than 25 microns high – it is invisible to the naked eye, thus incredibly difficult for counterfeiters to replicate without the original artwork files. Microtext is frequently hidden in an inconspicuous or unnoticeable area on the product. Laserengraved data and images are permanent and secure. When the item is placed in a photocopier or scanner, the line of microprint text will appear to the scanner as a dotted or solid line if the scanning resolution is not exceptionally high. Additionally, laser marking produces raised lettering that can enable authenticity at the touch of a finger. Camera vision systems ensure accurate placement of data. Sometimes an easily overlooked spelling error is inserted in the micro text. Microprinting can serve to confirm the fact that the product is genuine. Laser waveguide types and configurations – such
8 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
as UV, CO2 and ytterbium fiber – including pico/femto, are commonly used.
For plastics products, a powerful layered defense strategy combines OVDs (holograms) with submicron etched codes (via Snowleopard) to create tamper-evident security labels. Chemical, molecular taggant technologies Taggants, originally developed by 3M, can be added into molded plastic components and finished goods. Taggants do not change the color appearance of the plastic and can be used in any color, including transparent plastic. A taggant is one of the strongest protective measures, as few materials can be used within products without changing material properties and functions. Multiple taggant types are available to deploy and enforce strong and viable brand protection strategies. One of the most significant recent advancements is product authentication using smartphones. Taggants, microtaggants and nanotaggants are uniquely encoded for each customer or product. Particles are microscopic, typically ranging in size from 20 microns to 1,200 microns. Each particle is uniquely encoded, essentially serving as a virtual fingerprint. In its most basic form, the taggant is a unique numeric code sequence in a multicolored layer format. In more complex form, it provides multiple layers of security through incorporation of several
H o t S t a m p i n g F o i l | H e a t Tr a n s f e r s | I n - M o l d R o l l | D i e s & To o l i n g T h e r m o f o r m i n g F o i l s | F u n c t i o n a l Te c h n o l o g i e s & S e n s o r s KURZ is your global design and creative partner for extraordinary surface decoration, from initial design concept through series production. Our full range of hot stamping, heat transfer, in-mold roll decoration, insert/thermoforming foils, function technologies, and application equipment make our portfolio truly unique in the industry. Whether you’re decorating all or part of a label, packaging component, credit card, plastic part, medical device, or automotive interior/ exterior assembly, KURZ has the decoration technology and solution for you. Call us today to learn more about KURZ decoration solutions and innovative technologies that will bring your concept to reality!
KURZ TRANSFER PRODUCTS, L.P. 800-950-3645 | sales@kurzusa.com www.kurzusa.com www.plastic-decoration.com
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TECHNOLOGY
nanotaggant technologies in a single microscopic particle. Verification and detection are done with a variety of inexpensive handheld readers and scanners, including smartphones. The taggants are available in dry particle form for compounding or as a finished masterbatch. The taggants can be used in a variety of plastic resins and colors with no change in processing conditions. Conclusion Counterfeiting threatens the global economy and public health through the production of inferior products that circumvent consumer protection regulatory channels. In response to this threat, new state-of-the-art covert technology – whereby submicron microstructures, image/logo/text codes, are permanently etched into polymers – offers innovative security options. A layered approach that combines anti-counterfeit technologies – overt, covert and forensic (taggants) – works best. This is ideally suited for captive and custom plastics manufacturers that presently conduct value-added decorating and finishing operations, or plan to. This article presents anti-counterfeiting methods. Note, the comments and conclusions must be viewed as general to each group of technologies, and, inevitably, there will be exceptions with, and omission of, some more special applications. Some
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of these technologies are trademark brands and/or protected by international patents and may be available only from licensed suppliers, subject to fees. Alternatively, some can be applied in-house with costs on materials and processing, and most are available from specialist suppliers. Scott R. Sabreen is founder and president of The Sabreen Group, Inc., an engineering company specializing in secondary plastics manufacturing processes – product security, laser marking, surface pretreatments, bonding, decorating and finishing. Sabreen has been pioneering technologies and solving manufacturing problems for Sabreen over 30 years. He can be contacted at 972.820.6777 or by visiting www.Sabreen.com. For information regarding Snowleopard, contact The Sabreen Group. References 1. Global Brand Counterfeiting Report, 2018 2. Snowleopard Product Security Technology, The Sabreen Group Inc., 2019
ASK THE EXPERT A resource sponsored by SPE’s Decora ng & Assembly Division
Q&A: Pad Prin ng vs. Digital Inkjet for Direct-to-Plas c Prin ng by Julian Joffe, president/commercial services, Engineered Printing Solutions
W
hile pad printing and digital inkjet technologies for plastics decorating have been around for quite some time, inkjet hasn’t found the same footing that pad printing has enjoyed. However, that doesn’t mean that either technology is necessarily better than the other. Each has its place in the industry and always will. At times, they may even work together for the benefit of the decorator and the customer. Plastics Decorating sat down with Julian Joffe of Engineered Printing Solutions to discuss some of the developments in pad printing and inkjet and what those developments will mean for the industry in the coming years. How has pad printing technology changed in the last several years? The fundamentals of pad printing have remained unchanged for some years now – the biggest single change happened some 15 years back with the advent of the closed-cup system. Since that time, nothing has changed much. However, the adoption of other technologies into the pad printing world is what has changed. For instance, innovative companies in certain industries are taking advantage of robotics technology. The use of this type of automation has revolutionized pad printing equipment. Additionally, more effective vision systems also are changing the world of pad printing. Automation must become the first line of defense for technologies like pad printing to remain strong contenders in a globally competitive market. Innovative original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will always find ways to improve their technologies and implement those changes into the machines they build. This is how they continue to better serve their customers and maintain their leadership status as an OEM in that sphere of industry. In the next few years, what developments can printers expect to see with direct-to-plastics decorating? More than likely, analog systems will continue to remain competitive; however, the consumer-driven Internet of Things (IoT) will continue to challenge those analog systems that will, in some instances, be replaced and supplemented by digital printing technologies due to variable data and personalization. The biggest single advantage of digital over analog is, of
12 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Increases in specialty cosmetics and skin care products have resulted in increased demand for highly stylized, professional packaging that can be produced quickly and cost-effectively.
course, the ability to print on demand with minimal set-up and tooling costs. This feature will allow digital to continue its strong growth in direct-to-plastic object printing. As the cost of equipment continues to decline on a relative basis – due to increased volumes and demand – so will the ROI become more attractive and this upward spiral of demand will accelerate. As far as decorators are concerned, digital printing means: • • • •
quicker time to market shortened development times for new products lowered inventories ability to create later stage differentiation (within the production cycle)
These are only a few of the advantages that digital has over analog, but these are some of the reasons that digital will eventually find its way into all manufacturing sectors. Digital also will find a place together with analog systems to boost efficiencies, especially when shorter run customization becomes part of every manufacturer’s offerings to meet customers’ demands.
When deciding between pad printing or digital inkjet technologies, what should decorators consider for directto-plastic printing? There are a multitude of aspects to consider when deciding which technology is the best for any given product. The following are just a few: Production run lengths – What volume of image changeovers will be required? Variable data – Is it a requirement now or in the future? Colors required – Inkjet is great for full-color, while monochrome single-color images can be swapped out even for shorter runs. Changeovers – How often do the products being decorated change? Tooling changeovers can become the bottleneck. Substrates (shapes/tolerances) – Is the shape easily printed with inkjet? Flatter symmetrical shapes are easier to print, while other shapes can cause headaches. The biggest issue would be the distance from the print head to the surface. Substrates (materials types) – Inkjet inks may be a challenge in terms of adhesion. Sometimes inkjet inks will require a pretreatment for quality – not only for adhesion but due to relative wet-out on substrates with lower dynes (surface tension). Substrate colors – Some colors are easier to print than others. White, for instance, is an ideal CMYK inkjet color to print, although not as easy to manage – especially in low-viscosity print heads (such as 1,200 dpi heads when UV inks may be a requirement). Ink requirements – Some inks, such as UV, may not be ideal. Image sizes – Larger images take longer to print, and when speed is desired, the wide single-pass machines may be scary when it comes to cost. Production rates – When real speed is needed, see above comment. Image detail (resolution, font sizes, etc.) – Get samples printed and make sure they are printed on the production style machines and not some system that is just similar. Case in point: Slower flatbeds will print very differently, in terms of quality and adhesion, when compared with their faster single-pass brethren. Frequency of product changes – Tooling may be required. When it comes to product changes, high-speed analog systems are extremely costly to change over. Many products in the inkjet world do not require tooling due to the noncontact nature of inkjet. As long as the item is flat and stable on a belt, no tooling is needed. With inkjet the cost of a changeover can be close to zero, depending on whether tooling is required. Analog printers always need some sort of tooling when it comes to object printing; however, that rule does not apply to inkjet. Image appearance – This is something that is difficult to overcome. Printers who are used to the appearance
of a solid spot Pantone color can find looking at that same color in CMYK, especially close up, is very disappointing. Explaining the difference and getting used to it can be a challenge. Printers love the advantages they get from inkjet, but getting them to stop comparing one against the other can be a challenge. It’s important to review the samples alone and make a QC determination based upon what they see vs. something they have been used to looking at for years. Colors required – Pantone matches and level of Delta E requirements. If it needs to match perfectly, then maybe inkjet is not the solution. The question becomes whether to give up all the flexibility and ROI just to be at a Delta of +/- 0.5. Adding OGV inkjet will reduce the Delta E considerably, especially in certain colors in the typical CMYK range. No doubt there are other elements to be considered. These are just a few. What role has automation played in advancing decorating technologies/processes? In a single sentence, it has been the single biggest contributor to the growth. Are there ways digital inkjet and pad printing can work together to benefit customers? Absolutely. In fact, even together in a single system, there may be surfaces that inkjet may be better for – such as a variable piece of data – but other areas where pad printing works best due to shape or product topography. If a never-changing image in monochrome was needed, then pad print could be used. However, if the surface or substrate was difficult, in terms of ink compatibility, then perhaps pad print would need to be used. There is no single solution that will always work for every scenario, so pad printing and inkjet will always work together, and neither one can replace the other in every scenario. Julian Joffe is part of the highly experienced team of engineers at Engineered Printing Solutions who contributed to this article as a team. Founded in 1985, EPS is keenly focused on the advancement of direct to substrate inkjet printing. The EPS team includes a full engineering and software development group, technical services, customer service and management team – in total, 75 highly skilled and driven individuals. For more information, visit www.epsvt.com.
Joffe
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 13
EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHT
Pad Prin ng Equipment Comdec Inc. 978.462.3399 www.comdecinc.com T h e SM I 9 0 BA f r o m C o m d e c , Newburyport, Massachusetts, is a userr friendly one- and two-color pad printer. The machine features easy set-up, 90 mm ink cups, user-friendly controls, various programs and the possibility to modify d existing print plates/clichés. Also offered is the T400 series of pad printing inks. New, improved pigments offer superior color and opacity on all substrate colors while also featuring adhesion on a wide selection of materials and finishes, as well as chemical resistance. Deco Technology Group, Inc. 714.639.3369 www.decotechgroup.com The Modul 220 from Deco Technology Group, Orange, California, is a single-color pad printing machine. Like other machines in the Modul line, the 220 feat u res hybrid controls, which consist of linear motor driven pad movements along the X and Y axis and pneumatic movement along the Z axis. These features enable complete control over pad placement during image pickup from the cliché, as well as placement onto the part. The pneumatics allow for increased downward stroke force when needed. The Modul 220 has the capability to be equipped with a 200 mm (7.87") ink cup, which allows for printed images of up to roughly 190 mm (7.5") in diameter. The Modul 220 utilizes an innovative pneumatic cup pressure system, which helps to reduce ink leakage and ensure that image scooping is kept to a minimum. Diversified Printing Techniques 704.271.4999 www.diverprint.com Diversified Printing Techniques, Charlotte, North Carolina, provides pad print automation. With Kent’s pad printers offering automatic tape clean, automatic viscosity control and job saves, automation with pad printing can be done without an operator. Feeding systems, automatic loading, automatic unloading, pretreatment and vision systems to help meet
14 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
automation needs. In addition, Diversified of fe r s h ig h-speed s y s t e m s , p r e c i sio n systems, multicolor systems and systems with versatility, as well as standard solutions, w it h t he opt ion t o automate in the future. Diversified’s program management, engineering department and customer service team work with companies to supply the custom solution needed. Engineered Printing Solutions 800.272.7764 www.epsvt.com From Engineered Printing Solutions, East Dorset, Vermont, comes the KE08 catheter pad printer. Robotic pick-and-place and vacuum precisely position the par t and pretreat the print area. The touchscreen allows the operator to control many functions, as well as functions for rotary t ables, pa r t shut tles, automatic drying and pretreatment devices. With a vacuum bed up to 1,600 mm in length, 360º catheter printers can print multiple colors and markings on catheters as long as 1,600 mm and as narrow as 0.025". Inkcups Now Corporation 978.705.1945 www.inkcups.com The ICN-2200L pad printer f rom I n kcups, Da nvers, Massachusetts, is a two-color automatic pad printer equipped with a linear pad pr inting conveyor that can be interfaced with automatic loading and unloading system. Its 18-station pneumatic indexing conveyor allows this industrial machine to print on industrial, medical and promotional products. The ICN-2200L automatic pad printer’s membrane-touch control allows for the simple programming of all set-up features. The automatic pad printer has ample compression capability and the ability to accommodate large, hard print pads.
KENT Pad Printer Canada Inc. 905.940.8539 www.kentpp.com
Trans Tech 630.752.4000 www.itwtranstech.com
With the goal of integrating robotics without disturbing the proper conditions of a successful pad printing production cycle, KENT Pad Printer Canada Inc., Markham, Ontario, Canada, has integrated its own line of robots. The six-axis robot provides automation solutions for pad printing and assembling. KENT uses 45% fewer parts, and with that comes less friction, less wear and tear, less maintenance, lower cost and higher quality assurance. KENT has put all wire harnesses inside the robot.
The SealCup pad printer from Trans Tech, Carol Stream, Illinois, is now equipped with new features. In addition to the size, perfor mance and reliability expected from the SealCup, the new machine oers pad stroke adjustment, patented ExpressLinersTM and patent-pending ExpressPadsTM. The new printers are capable of generating more than 25% cost savings and up to 86% time savings, while providing up to 30% less downtime and 50% greater durability than traditional pad printing systems. ď Ž
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 15
FOCUS
The Price of Prin ng – In-House vs. Custom Decora on for Plas c Parts by Brittany Willes, editor, Plastics Decorating
T
hese days, the word “smart” has taken on a whole new meaning. With technology advancing by leaps and bounds every year, consumers have their pick of everything from smartphones to smart cars and even smart homes. Of course, this technology also has had an impact on the manufacturing
industry, including plastics. As plastics decorating equipment becomes smarter, faster and more reliable, many plastics molders have taken steps to perform more part decoration in-house. This certainly has proven to be beneficial for some molders. However, that doesn’t mean it is the right solution for every situation.
Robotic automation allows EVCO operators to produce products with greater speed and accuracy. In-house engineers and design teams collaborate on products from concept to delivery. Photo courtesy of EVCO Plastics.
16 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Offering in-mold decorating and labeling services was a natural move for custom injection molder EVCO Plastics. Photo courtesy of EVCO Plastics.
For custom injection molder EVCO Plastics – with locations in DeForest, Wisconsin, and Calhoun, Georgia – adding in-mold labeling (IML) and in-mold decorating (IMD) services made perfect business sense, given the process was designed to be performed during the plastic injection molding cycle. As a result, EVCO has amassed experience with a variety of custom plastic IMD and IML products, which allows the company to develop specialized solutions to meet a customer’s needs without having to extend the overall manufacturing time by reaching out to a third-party decorator. As a result, EVCO has been able to cut down on lost time, as well as the additional expenses, associated with sending products out for decorating. “Offering our own decorating services in-house allows us to pass along considerable cost savings to our customers,” remarked Project Engineer Paul Wilichowski. “We’re able to make up for a lot of lost time in the manufacturing process when we’re not transferring a run of parts to an outside vendor before finally sending the product on to our customers.” EVCO offers a multitude of value-added decorating services, including silk screening, pad printing, hot stamping and vacuum metallizing. “With everything kept in-house, we’re able to control the quality standards of our products,” Wilichowski said. Along with in-house engineering and design teams, EVCO operators make use of robotic automation that allows for increased speed and accuracy from concept to delivery. Having the ability and set-up to decorate in-house has allowed EVCO to expand its current services in an effort to offer customers even more decorating choices. EVCO now offers painting services, including top clear coat painting on molded parts for chemical resistance and UV color coating. “We’re in the process of developing a full UV coating production line, including a surface treatment stage, spray booth with paint robots, flash tunnel and UV curing chamber,” he said.
Clearly, decorating in-house has its advantages. However, like most things, it also has its downsides. For instance, it may not be practical for some smaller companies to invest in print decorating equipment, as it can be expensive and cumbersome. Furthermore, it may not be as cost-effective as it may appear at first glance. When it comes to such services as pad printing, silk screening and others, it’s not enough to simply hit a switch on a machine and hope for the best. “When it comes to printing on plastic parts, it really comes down to experience and expertise,” said Steven Brock, sales manager for Unique Assembly and Decorating, Inc. “We often say that printing is more art than science, and experience plays a key role when it comes to efficiently producing quality decorated parts.” With more than 25 years of plastics decorating experience, the Downers Grove, Illinois-based custom decorator has no shortage of experience in turning a molded part into a fully decorated product. “Many of our employees have been with us since the beginning,” Brock continued, “and that kind of experience can’t be replicated with just a few hours of training.” Molders often have limited experience with the printing side of things and while many may have some experience, it is not their main area of focus. In these instances, the experience level of a custom decorator is going to outweigh the molder’s significantly. With experience comes knowledge, and that’s where the real cost-saving advantages come in. “Oftentimes, experience eliminates downtime,” Brock said. “There are variables that occur with printing that have to be managed throughout the day. If operators can do that effectively, they can produce more parts per day.” On the other hand, for
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 17
FULL COLOR DECORATION
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Left: Issues such as strict chemical testing can be a challenge for decorators whose products need to overcome adhesion barriers. Right: Having the technology and personnel readily available to tackle obstacles related to printing on plastics is one area where custom decorators may have the advantage over molders that don’t regularly perform decorative services. Photos courtesy of Production Decorating Co. Inc.
an inexperienced operator, those same variables can lead to downtime and decreased production. “If the operator was supposed to get 3,000 parts off a machine in a given day and only managed 2,000, then the cost to produce those 2,000 parts has increased,” he added. “Of course, it’s not as if custom product decorators do not encounter issues that create down time or lower production rates – of course we do. However, with a fixed cost/quoted price for each project, our customers are insulated from any cost increase.” That’s not to say all molding facilities lack experienced printers. As more molders begin moving at least part of the decorating process in-house, it’s not uncommon to have a team of dedicated plastics decorators on-site. “If a company does have experienced operators that print every day, oftentimes there are only a few of them,” Brock noted. “This can cause serious problems in terms of labor availability. For instance, if there are only four people in a printing department and one person calls in sick, suddenly one quarter of that workforce is gone.” As Brock noted, for companies that specialize in decorating – and therefore naturally have a larger workforce – a few absences are not as big of a complication. “We have over 40 employees in our company,” he said. “If someone calls in sick, it doesn’t affect us as much because we can move our experienced pool of labor around rather than pull someone from another department to fill that position.” The same is
true regarding equipment. Having multiple pieces of the same product decorating equipment for each decorating process allows for continued production with little to no interruption if issues occur with the equipment. “Using a custom decorator vs. in-house integration allows the molder to focus its investments and personnel on molding and allows the decorator to focus its investments and personnel on the decoration technologies,” stated Mark Kennedy, president of Emerald Corporation, an engineered decorative solutions provider offering full in-house decoration service while also partnering with many injection molders to support their decoration needs. “A clear focus is always best,” he said. Emerald has found this to be especially true when it comes to complex decorative processes. “We had a project where the customer wanted a decorative pattern that included very complex geometry,” said Kennedy. Capable of providing many overlapping decorative processes – from Class A painting to IMD – the Grand Rapids, Michiganbased decorator is more than familiar with complex designs. These are the types of products for which having that clear focus becomes especially useful. “We looked at screen printing and IMD and realized that the geometry was too complex for this application,” Kennedy
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explained. “We also looked at hot stamping, and, again, the geometry was too severe to accommodate that process.” Eventually, it was determined that a digital print and wrap process would best support the application. Having the ability to work through several solutions, each requiring varying levels of technical expertise and advanced technology, is part of what sets custom decorators apart and gives them an advantage over in-house molder/decorators. As Kennedy noted, however, “There does need to be a good relationship between the molder and decorator, so potential issues can be brought to the attention of the customer in the design and launch phases of a program.” Another area in which custom decorators have an advantage is when certain obstacles hinder the decorating process. Specializing in silk screen printing for cosmetics, Production Decorating Co., Waterbury, Connecticut, has experienced issues involving chemical testing. “On a few of our recent projects, we have run into challenges overcoming adhesion barriers that require our work to pass strict chemical tests that may come into contact with our finished products,” explained Vice President Brendan Hartnett. Given that Production Decorating works with materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene, glass-reinforced nylon, PET-G,
vinyl and more, “we have a continuous need to overcome this strict adhesion testing,” he said. “As a result, we are always toying with our methods and testing a wide variety of ink brands.” The company has seen a large increase in specialty cosmetic and private label skin care products in the past few years, mostly as a result of newer brands looking to make a name for themselves. Having the time, personnel and technology to dedicate to specific issues – like adhesion testing – is part of what allows Production Decorating to provide the crisp, professional look these companies are seeking. Perhaps most important of all, plastics decorating is not just about operating the printing equipment or physically running the parts. A lot of elements go along with printing that have to be considered. “With pad printing, there are films and burning plates and disposal of inks – all of these other aspects of the process that custom decorators already have investment in, that are in their facilities, and that they’re using every day,” said Brock. “It’s not only about the printing itself, it’s about having control of the entire process from the artwork to machine set-up and choosing the right pads, screens, hot stamp dies or plates, to printing the parts and choosing the right pre- and post-cure treatments. It’s not just the printing; it’s the whole process that we excel at.” The decision whether to decorate plastics parts in-house vs. sending them out to a custom decorator isn’t always straightforward. As companies grow and expand, it makes sense that molders would want to keep more processes inhouse as a way of cutting expenses and maintaining control over the product from start to finish. However, all businesses have their areas of expertise, and decorating in-house may not necessarily be the right answer. Depending on the complexity of the product and the skill required to do the job right, sending it out may be the better option. “Of course, molders who are decorating in-house are typically not walking in blind,” said Brock. “However, they don’t typically have the same level of experience as we do. The reality is, they are oftentimes somewhere in the middle. Working with a quality decorator who has been in the business for a long time, with everything that decorator can bring to the table, a lot of times that’s going to outweigh the perceived cost savings of doing it in-house.” Plastics Decorating wishes to thank the companies that contributed to this article. For more information regarding their individual decorating services, call Production Decorating Company at 203.574.2975 or visit www.evcoplastics.com, www. uniquepadprinting.com or www.emeraldcorporation.com.
20 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Booth #323
Amazing Direct to Shape Decorating Technologies Configured in Screen, Inkjet or Both
K15 CNC
K22 CNC
• Decorates round, oval, conical or rectangular containers • Speeds up to 70 ppm on inkjet, screen or hybrid • Fully automatic servo-controlled operation Koenig & Bauer (US) Inc. www.koenig-bauer.com
Flexible. Precise. Innovative.
2019 Buyers Guide Products/Services Oered .................... 24 Supplier Directory................................. 28 Products/Services Offered Index A Adhesives/Sealants ..................................................24 Assembly/Welding Equipment ................................24 C Contract Decorating .................................................24 D Decorating/Assembly Consulting and Training ........24 Digital Inkjet ............................................................24 F Flexographic Printing Presses ..................................25 H Heat Transfers ..........................................................25 Hot Stamping Dies ...................................................25 Hot Stamping Foils ..................................................25 Hot Stamping/Heat Transfer Presses .......................25 I In-Mold Decorating .................................................26
O Oset Printing Presses .............................................26 P Pad Heat Transfer.....................................................26 Pad Printing Presses .................................................26 Pad Printing Supplies ...............................................26 Paints/Coatings ........................................................27 Paints/Coatings Equipment ......................................27 S Screen Printing Equipment/Supplies .......................27 Screen Printing Presses ............................................27 Static Control Systems .............................................27 Sublimation Equipment ...........................................27 Substrates (Materials) ..............................................27 Surface Treatment Equipment..................................27 U Used Equipment .......................................................27 UV Curing Equipment .............................................27
L Labels/Decals ...........................................................26 Laser Etching/Marking Equipment ..........................26
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 23
2019 Buyers Guide PRODUCTS/SERVICES OFFERED Adhesives/Sealants Functional Inks, LLC Nazdar Ink Technologies
Assembly/Welding Equipment 1. Electromagnetic 2. Hot Plate Welding 3. Induction 4. Infrared Welding 5. Laser Welding 6. Spin Welding 7. Staking 8. Thermal Assembly 9. Ultrasonic Welding 10. Vibration Welding
Contract Decorating 1. Digital Inkjet 2. Hot Stamping/Heat Transfers 3. In-Mold Decorating 4. Laser Marking 5. Oset Printing 6. Pad Printing 7. Painting/Coating 8. Screen Printing 9. Shrink Sleeving 10. Surface Activation 11. Vacuum Metallizing
Thermal Press International, Inc.
tributek.us P.O. Box 8025 Elburn, IL 60119 Phone: (630) 448-2295 Fax: (630) 268-8845 Website: tributek.us
Accusonics, Inc. 6,7,9,10 Apex Machine Company Emabond Solutions, LLC 1,3 Emerson 2,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 Herrmann Ultrasonics, Inc. 9 Sonics & Materials, Inc. 2,6,7,8,9,10 Thermal Press International, Inc. 2,4,7,8,9 Trekk Equipment Group 7 tributek.us 9
Decorating/Assembly Consulting and Training
Comdec, Inc. 2,6,8 CPS Resources, Inc. 1,2,4,6,8,10 CreaprintUSA, Corp. 3,5 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 2,6,8 Die Stampco Inc. 2 Digital Decorations, LLC 1,2,6 DuraTech Industries 3,8 Fiberlok 1,2,3,4 Harco Enterprises 2 Hot Stamp Supply Company 2 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2,6,8 Images, Inc. Co. 2,6 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 4,6,8 Inhance Technologies 10 Innovative Digital Systems 1,2,4,6,8 Laserax 4 North PaciďŹ c International, Inc. 2,3 Pad Print Pros 6 Production Decorating Company Inc. 8 Schwerdtle Technologies 2 Simco-Ion 3 Standard Machines, Inc. 2,6,8 Unifoil Corporation 2,3,11 Unique Assembly & Decorating, Inc. 1,2,6,8
24 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Mountain Graphix LLC Pad Print Pros Sabreen Group, Inc., The Schwerdtle Technologies Standard Machines, Inc. Trans Tech Trekk Equipment Group tributek.us United Silicone Venjakob North America Inc.
Art of Mass Production
3245 University Ave. Suite 482 San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 269-0184 Website: artofmassproduction.com
Images, Inc. Co. 2827 Treat St. Adrian, MI 49221 Phone: (517) 265-4087 Fax: (517) 263-4145 Website: padprinting.net
341 Stealth Ct Livermore, CA 94551 Phone: (925) 454-9800 Fax: (925) 454-9810 Website: thermalpress.com
Supplier Directory begins on page 28.
Digital Inkjet 1. Digital Transfers 2. Equipment 3. Fixtures 4. Inks 5. Software 6. Systems Integration
Schwerdtle Technologies 41 Benham Ave. Bridgeport, CT 06605 Phone: (203) 330-2750 Fax: (203) 330-2760 Website: schwerdtle.com
Trekk Equipment Group 70 Midwest Dr. 3DFLĹ…F 02 Phone: Website: trekkequipment.com
Accusonics, Inc. AkzoNobel Apex Machine Company Art of Mass Production CER CPS Resources, Inc. CreaprintUSA, Corp. Deco Technology Group, Inc. Die Stampco Inc. DiversiďŹ ed Printing Techniques HotStampandPadPrint.com Innovative Digital Systems KURZ Transfer Products, LP
Inkcups 310 Andover St. Danvers, MA 01923 Phone: (978) 646-8980 Fax: (978) 646-8981 Website: inkcups.com
Apex Machine Company 2,4,6 Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. 4 CDigital 1 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 1,2 Digital Print Supplies 2,3,4,5,6 DiversiďŹ ed Printing Techniques 3 Engineered Printing Solutions 2,3,4,6 Fiberlok 1 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1 Inkcups 2,3,4,5,6 Innovative Digital Systems 2,3,4,6 Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 2,3,4,5,6 Marabu North America 4 Mimaki USA 2,4,5 Nazdar Ink Technologies 4 OMSO North America, Inc. 2 Roland DGA 2,4,5 Webtech, Inc. 1
Flexographic Printing Presses Apex Machine Company OMSO North America, Inc.
Heat Transfers
Hot Stamping Dies 1. Art Services 2. Brass 3. Copper 4. Magnesium 5. Silicone Rubber 6. Steel 7. Tooling
Hot Stamping/ Heat Transfer Presses
1. Digital 2. Flexographic 3. Roto-gravure 4. Screen Printed
Schwerdtle Technologies
CDigital 2529 Washington Blvd. Baltimore, MD 21230 Phone: (410) 646-7800 Fax: (410) 646-7786 Website: cdigital.com
Preco Corporation Chiyoda Annex Bldg. 8th Floor Utsubohonmachi 1-4-5, Nishiku Osaka, 550-0004 JAPAN Phone: +81-6-6443-0039 Fax: +81-6-6443-0040 Website: www.preco-osaka.com Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. 1,4 CDigital 1 CER 3,4 Comdec, Inc. CPS Resources, Inc. 3,4 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 1,3,4 Digital Decorations, LLC 1 Fiberlok 1,4 Hot Stamp Supply Company 1 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,4 Innovative Digital Systems 3 KURZ Transfer Products, LP 1,3,4 Mountain Graphix LLC 4 Preco Corporation 1,3,4 Roland DGA United Silicone 1,2,3,4 Webtech, Inc. 1,2,3,4
KURZ Transfer Products, LP 1,2,3,4,5 North PaciďŹ c International, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5 Roland DGA 4 Unifoil Corporation 2,4 United Silicone 1,3,4 Webtech, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5
41 Benham Ave. Bridgeport, CT 06605 Phone: (203) 330-2750 Fax: (203) 330-2760 Website: schwerdtle.com
CER 1,2,5,6,7 CPS Resources, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 Deco Technology Group, Inc. Die Stampco Inc. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 h+m USA Dies 2,5 Hot Stamp Supply Company 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 Innovative Digital Systems 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 KURZ Transfer Products, LP 1,2,5,6,7 Mountain Graphix LLC 5,7 Schwerdtle Technologies 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 Thermal Press International, Inc. 7 Trekk Equipment Group United Silicone 1,2,4,5,6,7 Universal Engraving, Inc., A UEI Group Company 2,3,7 Webtech, Inc. 5
Hot Stamping Foils
1. Digital 2. Peripheral 3. Roll-on 4. Servo 5. Vertical
Hastings Advanced Decorating Systems 1200c B & H Industrial Ct. Millstadt, IL 62260 Phone: (618) 476-6707 Fax: (618) 476-6708 Website: hastingsads.com
Trekk Equipment Group 70 Midwest Dr. 3DFLĹ…F 02 Phone: Website: trekkequipment.com
Apex Machine Company CDigital 1 CER 2,3,4,5 CPS Resources, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 2,3,5 Die Stampco Inc. 5 Hastings Advanced Decorating Systems, Inc. Hot Stamp Supply Company 1,3,5 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2,3,4,5 Innovative Digital Systems 3,5 Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 3,4,5 KURZ Transfer Products, LP 1,2,3,4,5 Mountain Graphix LLC 2,3,5 North PaciďŹ c International, Inc. 2,3,4,5 Standard Machines, Inc. 5 Thermal Press International, Inc. Trekk Equipment Group 1,2,3,4,5 United Silicone 1,2,3,4,5 Webtech, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5
Thermal Press International, Inc. 341 Stealth Ct Livermore, CA 94551 Phone: (925) 454-9800 Fax: (925) 454-9810 Website: thermalpress.com
1. Gloss Pigment 2. Holographic 3. Matte Pigment 4. Metallic 5. Multicolored CDigital 5 CER 1,2,3,4 CPS Resources, Inc. 1,3,4,5 Custom Foils Co. 1,3,4 Hot Stamp Supply Company 1,2,3,4 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2,3,4,5 InďŹ nity Foils 1,2,3,4
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 25
2019 Buyers Guide In-Mold Decorating 1. Diecutting 2. Fabric 3. In-Mold Electronics 4. In-Mold Inserts 5. In-Mold Label Substrates 6. In-Mold Labels 7. In-Mold Transfers 8. Inks
DuraTech Industries 3216 Commerce St. La Crosse, WI 54603 Phone: (608) 781-2570 Fax: (608) 781-2540 Website: duratech.com
Laser Etching/ Marking Equipment 1. Direct Marking 2. Laser Material Additives 3. Paint and Laser 4. Platemaking AkzoNobel 3 Apex Machine Company 1,4 Automated Marking Solutions, LLC 1,4 Diversified Printing Techniques 4 Fiberlok 1 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 1,3,4 Inkcups 4 Innovative Digital Systems 1 Laserax 1,3 TNT Distributors, Inc. 1,4
Offset Printing Presses 1. Dry Offset 2. Laser Printing Plates
AkzoNobel Apex Machine Company 6,8 Central Decal Company, Inc. 4,6 CreaprintUSA, Corp. 1,6 DuraTech Industries 3,6 Fiberlok 4,5,6,7 Functional Inks, LLC 8 HotStampandPadPrint.com 6,7 KURZ Transfer Products, LP 3,4,6,7,8 Nazdar Ink Technologies 8 North Pacific International, Inc. 4,6,7 Preco Corporation 7 Proell, Inc. 8 Simco-Ion 4,6 Sun Chemical 8 Unifoil Corporation 5,6 Yupo Corporation 6
Apex Machine Company 1,2 Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 2 OMSO North America, Inc. 1
Pad Heat Transfer 1. Heat Transfers 2. Machinery 3. Pads
CDigital Labels/Decals 1. Domed 2. Outdoor Durable 3. Pressure-Sensitive 4. Shrink Sleeves
2529 Washington Blvd. Baltimore, MD 21230 Phone: (410) 646-7800 Fax: (410) 646-7786 Website: cdigital.com
Central Decal Company, Inc. 1,2,3 CreaprintUSA, Corp. 2,3 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 3 DuraTech Industries 1,2,3 Fiberlok 2,3 Mountain Graphix LLC 1,2 Roland DGA
26 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Pad Printing Supplies
Schwerdtle Technologies 41 Benham Ave. Bridgeport, CT 06605 Phone: (203) 330-2750 Fax: (203) 330-2760 Website: schwerdtle.com
1. Ceramic Rings 2. Cliches/Plates 3. Ink Cups 4. Inks/Thinners 5. Pads
Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. CDigital 1 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 1,2 KURZ Transfer Products, LP 1 Mountain Graphix LLC 1 Simco-Ion 2 Schwerdtle Technologies 3
165-C New Boston St. Woburn, MA 01801 Phone: (781) 281-2558 Fax: (781) 810-0170 Website: bostonindustrialsolutions.com
Pad Printing Presses 1. Automated Systems 2. Dryers 3. Manual 4. Open Ink Well 5. Rotary 6. Sealed Cup A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. 2 Apex Machine Company Automated Marking Solutions, LLC 1,2,4,6 Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. 6 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5,6 Diversified Printing Techniques 1,2,3,4,5,6 Engineered Printing Solutions 1,2,5,6 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2,6 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 1,2,3,4,5,6 Inkcups 1,2,5,6 Innovative Digital Systems 1,2,3,4,6 Pad Print Pros 1,2,6 TNT Distributors, Inc. 1,2,4,6 Trans Tech 1,2,3,5,6
Inkcups 310 Andover St. Danvers, MA 01923 Phone: (978) 646-8980 Fax: (978) 646-8981 Website: inkcups.com
Apex Machine Company Automated Marking Solutions, LLC 1,2,3,4,5 Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. 1,2,4,5 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5 Diversified Printing Techniques 1,2,3,4,5 Encres DUBUIT 4 Engineered Printing Solutions 1,2,3,4,5 Functional Inks, LLC 4 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2,3,4,5 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 1,2,3,4,5 Inkcups 1,2,3,4,5 Marabu North America 4 Nazdar Ink Technologies 4 Pad Print Pros 1,2,3,4,5 Proell, Inc. 4 TNT Distributors, Inc. 1,2,3,4,5 Trans Tech 1,2,3,4,5
Paints/Coatings 1. Plasma Coating 2. Powder Coating 3. Solvent-based 4. UV-Curable 5. Water-Based AkzoNobel Automated Marking Solutions, LLC 3,4 Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. 4 Diversified Printing Techniques 1,2,3,4,5 Engineered Printing Solutions 3,4,5 Functional Inks, LLC 3,4 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,3,4 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 1,2,3,4,5 Inkcups 3 Pad Print Pros 1,3,4 Proell, Inc. 3 TNT Distributors, Inc. 3,4 Trans Tech 3,4
Paints/Coatings Equipment Venjakob North America Inc.
Screen Printing Presses 1. Containers/3D 2. Flat Sheet 3. Inspection Systems A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. 1,2 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 1,2 Diversified Printing Techniques 1,2,3 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2 Innovative Digital Systems 1,2 Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 1,3 OMSO North America, Inc. 1,3 TNT Distributors, Inc. 1,2
Static Control Systems Automated Marking Solutions, LLC Diversified Printing Techniques HotStampandPadPrint.com Industrial Pad Printing Supplies Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) Meech International Simco-Ion
Sublimation Equipment Roland DGA
Screen Printing Equipment/Supplies
Enercon Industries 1,4,5,6,7 HotStampandPadPrint.com 1,2,4,5,6,7 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 4,5,6,9 Inkcups 4,6 Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 1,6,8,9 Venjakob North America Inc. 6,7,9
Used Equipment 1. Assembly 2. Hot Stamping 3. Offset Printing 4. Pad Printing 5. Screen Printing 6. Ultrasonic 7. UV and Air Dryers
A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. 5,7 Accusonics, Inc. 6 Apex Machine Company CPS Resources, Inc. 2,7 Die Stampco Inc. 2 Digital Print Supplies 7 HotStampandPadPrint.com 2,4 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 4,5 Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 5,7 KURZ Transfer Products, LP 2 North Pacific International, Inc. 2 OMSO North America, Inc. 3,5 Thermal Press International, Inc. 1 Trekk Equipment Group 2
UV Curing Equipment A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. Apex Machine Company Deco Technology Group, Inc. Diversified Printing Techniques Industrial Pad Printing Supplies Innovative Digital Systems Mimaki USA Roland DGA Venjakob North America Inc.
Thermal Press International, Inc. 341 Stealth Ct Livermore, CA 94551 Phone: (925) 454-9800 Fax: (925) 454-9810 Website: thermalpress.com
Substrates (Materials) 1. Dryers 2. Inks 3. Screens/Screen Making Equipment 4. Tooling 5. UV Dryers 6. Vacuum Tables A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. 1,3,4,5,6 Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. 2 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 1,2,3,4,6 Diversified Printing Techniques 1,2,4,5,6 Encres DUBUIT 2,3 Functional Inks, LLC 2,5 GPE Ardenghi srl 3 HotStampandPadPrint.com 2,4 Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 1,2,3,4,5,6 Inkcups 1 Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 1,4,5 Marabu North America 2 Nazdar Ink Technologies 2 Proell, Inc. 2 RUCO Inks 2 Sun Chemical 2 TNT Distributors, Inc. 1,2,3
1. Hard Coated Polycarbonate Films 2. Hard Coated Polyester Films 3. In-Molded Plastic Films 4. PC Film 5. TPU Film CDigital CPS Resources, Inc. 4,5 Unifoil Corporation 2,3,4,5
Surface Treatment Equipment 1. Air Plasma 2. Chemical 3. Cold Gas Plasma 4. Corona 5. Dyne Testing Supplies 6. Flame 7. Plasma 8. Reactive Gas 9. Surface Conditioning
The 2019 Buyers Guide will be available online all year at
plasticsdecorating.com.
3DT LLC 1,4,5,7 Apex Machine Company 4,6,7,9 Deco Technology Group, Inc. 4,6 Diversified Enterprises 5 Diversified Printing Techniques 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,9
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 27
2019 Buyers Guide SUPPLIER DIRECTORY
3DT LLC
N114 W18850 Clinton Dr. Germantown, WI 53022 (262) 253-6700 Fax: (262) 253-6977 www.3DTLLC.com
CER 85 rue Castellion Oyonnax, 01117 France +33 (0)4 74 73 26 11 (716) 681-8222 x7636 (USA) Fax: +33 474732601 www.itwcer.com
Art of Mass Production 3245 University Ave., Ste. 482 San Diego, CA 92104 (619) 269-0184 www.artofmassproduction.com
Comdec, Inc. A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. 4321 N. Knox Ave. Chicago, IL 60641 (773) 777-7100 Fax: (773) 777-0909 www.awt-gpi.com
Accusonics, Inc. 5401 Patton Dr., Unit 113 Lisle, IL 60532 (630) 769-1886 Fax: (630) 769-1887 www.accusonics.com
Automated Marking Solutions, LLC 2121 Lohmans Crossing Rd., Ste. 504-394 Austin, TX 78734 (512) 593-7100 Fax: (512) 593-7101 www.automarkco.com
Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. 165 New Boston St., Ste. C Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 281-2558 Fax: (781) 810-0170 www.bostonindustrialsolutions.com
25 Hale St. Newburyport, MA 01950 (978) 462-3399 Fax: (978) 462-3443 www.comdecinc.com
CPS Resources, Inc. 2000 Innovation Dr. Indian Trail, NC 28079 (704) 628-7679 www.cpsresources.com
AkzoNobel
1845 Maxwell Dr. Troy, MI 48084 (616) 421-5067 www.akzonobel.com
CreaprintUSA, Corp.
CDigital Apex Machine Company 3000 NE 12th Terr. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334 (954) 566-1572 Fax: (954) 563-2844 www.apexmachine.com
2529 Washington Blvd. Baltimore, MD 21230 (410) 646-7800 Fax: (410) 646-7786 www.cdigital.com Central Decal Company, Inc. 6901 High Grove Blvd. Burr Ridge, IL 60527 (800) 869-7654 Fax: (630) 325-9860 www.centraldecal.com
28 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
3325 NW 70th Ave. Miami, FL 33122-1332 (786) 369-7398 Fax: (305) 477-4050 www.creaprintusa.com
Custom Foils Co. 185 Foundry St. Newark, NJ 07105 (973) 344-1434 Fax: (973) 589-1617 www.customfoilscompany.com Deco Technology Group, Inc. 749 N. Main St. Orange, CA 92868 (714) 639-3326 Fax: (714) 639-2261 www.decotechgroup.com
Die Stampco Inc. 1301 N. Lincoln St. Bay City, MI 48708 (989) 893-7790 Fax: (989) 893-7741 www.diestampco.com
Emabond Solutions, LLC 49 Walnut St. Norwood, NJ 07648 (201) 767-7400 Fax: (201) 767-3608
GPE Ardenghi srl Via Pagazzano 20 Treviglio, 24047 Italy +39 036349796 www.gpeardenghi.it
Digital Decorations, LLC
Emerson
h+m USA Dies
2 Fanaras Dr., Unit 2B Salisbury, MA 01952 (978) 961-3190 Fax: (978) 463-0329
41 Eagle Rd. Danbury, CT 06810 (203) 796-0400 www.emerson.com/branson
2020-I Starita Rd. Charlotte, NC 28206 (704) 599-9325 Fax: (704) 599-3857 www.hmusadies.com Harco Enterprises 675 The Parkway Peterborough, Ontario, K9J 7K2 (705) 743-5361 Fax: (705) 743-4312 www.harcoplastics.com
Digital Print Supplies 2000 Innovation Dr. Indian Trail, NC 28079 (704) 628-7679 www.digitalprintsupplies.com Diversified Enterprises 101 Mulberry St., Ste. 2N Claremont, NH 03743 (603) 543-0038 Fax: (603) 543-1334 www.accudynetest.com
Encres DUBUIT
1 rue Isaac Newton Mitry Mory, lle de, France 77290 +33 1 64 67 41 60 Fax: +33 1 64 67 41 77 www.encresdubuit.com
Hastings Advanced Decorating Systems, Inc.
Enercon Industries W140 N9572 Fountain Blvd. Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 (262) 255-6070 www.enerconind.com
1200c B & H Industrial Ct. Millstadt, IL 62260 (618) 476-6707 Fax: (618) 476-6708 www.hastingsads.com
Diversified Printing Techniques 13336 South Ridge Dr. Charlotte, NC 28273 (704) 583-9433 Fax: (704) 583-9439 www.diverprint.com
DuraTech Industries 3216 Commerce St. La Crosse, WI 54603 (608) 781-2570 Fax: (608) 781-2540 www.duratech.com
Engineered Printing Solutions
Herrmann Ultrasonics, Inc. 1261 Hardt Cir. Bartlett, IL 60103 (630) 626-1626 Fax: (630) 736-7514 www.herrmannultrasonics.com
201 Tennis Way East Dorset, VT 05253 (802) 362-0844 ext. 227 www.epsvt.com Fiberlok 811 Stockton Ave. Ft. Collins, CO 80524 (970) 221-1200 Fax: (970) 221-2424 www.fiberlok.com
Hot Stamp Supply Company 141-2 Marcel Dr. Winchester, VA 22602 (877) 343-4321 Fax: (877) 448-1001 www.hotstampsupply.com
Functional Inks, LLC 150 Front St., Unit 2 West Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 363-0770 www.functional-inks.com
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 29
2019 Buyers Guide HotStampandPadPrint.com
Nazdar Ink Technologies 8501 Hedge Lane Terr. Shawnee, KS 66227 (913) 422-1888 Fax: (913) 422-2296 www.nazdar.com
HotStampandPadPrint.com 29 Foremast Dr. Salem, SC 29676 (256) 566-1342 www.hotstampandpadprint.com
Koenig & Bauer Kammann (US) 235 Heritage Ave., Ste. 2 Portsmouth, NH 03801 (978) 463-0050 Fax: (978) 463-0042 www.kammann.com
5944 Sycamore Ct. Chino, CA 91710 (909) 628-2224 www.npifoil.com
Images, Inc. Co. 2827 Treat St. Adrian, MI 49221 (517) 265-4087 Fax: (517) 263-4145 www.padprinting.net
Industrial Pad Printing Supplies 703 N. Clark El Paso, TX 79905 (915) 875-1020 www.indpad.com
North Pacific International, Inc.
KURZ Transfer Products, LP 3200 Woodpark Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28206 (704) 927-3700 Fax: (704) 927-3701 www.kurzusa.com
Laserax 101-2811 Watt Ave. Ouebec City, QC, G1X 4S8 (855) 894-1632 Fax: (418) 656-6565 www.laserax.com
OMSO North America, Inc. 1420 Jamike Ave. Erlanger, KY 41018 (859) 282-6676 Fax: (859) 282-9976 www.omso.us
Pad Print Pros 329 Woodside Dr. Onsted, MI 49265-9475 (517) 467-5340 www.padprintpros.com
Marabu North America Infinity Foils
9090 Nieman Rd. Overland Park, KS 66214 (913) 888-7340 www.infinityfoils.com Inhance Technologies 16223 Park Row, Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77084 (281) 578-1440 www.inhanceproducts.com
Inkcups
310 Andover St. Danvers, MA 01923 (978) 646-8980 Fax: (978) 646-8981 www.inkcups.com
Innovative Digital Systems 2000 Innovation Dr. Indian Trail, NC 28079 (704) 628-7679 www.ids-digital.com
2460-A Remount Rd. Charleston, SC 29406 (843) 886-0094 /(888) 253-2778 Fax: (843) 886-3701 www.marabu-northamerica.com Meech International 1298 Centerview Cir. Akron, OH 44321 (330) 564-2000 www.meech.com
Mimaki USA
Preco Corporation
Chiyoda Annex Bldg. 8th Fl. Utsubohonmachi 1-4-5, Nishiku Osaka, 5500004 Japan +81-6-6443-0039 Fax: +81-6-6443-0040 www.preco-osaka.com Production Decorating Company Inc. 184 Railroad Hill St. Waterbury, CT 06708 (203) 574-2975 www.goprodeco.com
150 Satellite Blvd. NE Suwanee, GA 30024 (888) 530-4021 www.mimakiusa.com
Proell, Inc.
Mountain Graphix LLC 226 S. Westgate Dr. Carol Stream, IL 60188 (630) 681-8300 www.mountaingraphix.com
30 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
2751 Dukane Dr. St. Charles, IL 60174 (630) 587-2300 Fax: (630) 587-2666 www.proell.us
Roland DGA 15363 Barranca Pkwy. Irvine, CA 92618 (949) 727-2100 Fax: (949) 727-2112 www.rolanddga.com RUCO Inks 915 N. Central Ave. Wood Dale, IL 60191 (866) 373-7912 www.rucousa.com
Thermal Press International, Inc. 341 Stealth Ct. Livermore, CA 94551 (925) 454-9800 Fax: (925) 454-9810 www.thermalpress.com
Schwerdtle Technologies 41 Benham Ave. Bridgeport, CT 06605 (203) 330-2750 Fax: (203) 330-2760 www.schwerdtle.com
TNT Distributors, Inc. 1107 Wonder Dr., Ste. 101 Round Rock, TX 78681 (512) 310-7880 Fax: (512) 310-7885 www.tntdistributors.com Trans Tech 475 N. Gary Ave. Carol Stream, IL 60188 (630) 752-4000 Fax: (630) 752-4467 www.itwtranstech.com
Trekk Equipment Group Simco-Ion
2257 N. Penn Rd. Hatfield, PA 19440 (800) 203-2419 www.simco-ion.com/industrial
2550 Wisconsin Ave. Downers Grove, IL 60515 (630) 241-4300 Fax: (630) 241-4300 www.uniquepadprinting.com United Silicone 4471 Walden Ave. Lancaster, NY 14086 (716) 681-8222 x7636 Fax: (716) 681-8789 www.unitedsilicone.com
Sabreen Group, Inc., The 5799 Sibley Ln. The Colony, TX 75056 (972) 820-6777 www.sabreen.com
Unique Assembly & Decorating
70 Midwest Dr. Pacific, MO 63069 (636) 271-1391 www.trekkequipment.com
Universal Engraving, Inc., a UEI Group Company 9090 Nieman Rd. Overland Park, KS 66214 (800) 221-9059 Fax: (913) 541-8172 www.ueigroup.com
Venjakob North America Inc. 130 Healey Rd., Unit 18 Bolton, Ontario, Canada L7E 5B3 (905) 951-9966 Fax: (905) 951-9907 www.venjakob.com
tributek.us Sonics & Materials, Inc. 53 Church Hill Rd. Newtown, CT 06470 (800) 745-1105 Fax: (203) 270-4610 www.sonics.com
Standard Machines, Inc. 25 Hale St. Newburyport, MA 01950 (978) 462-4999 Fax: (978) 462-3443 www.comdecinc.com Sun Chemical 135 W. Lake St. Northlake, IL 60164 (708) 236-3779 www.sunchemical.com
PO Box 8025 Elburn, IL 60119 (630) 448-2295 Fax: (630) 268-8845 www.tributek.us
Unifoil Corporation 12 Daniel Rd. E. Fairfield, NJ 07004 (973) 244-9900 Fax: (973) 244-5555 www.unifoil.com
Webtech, Inc.
108 N. Gold Dr. Robbinsville, NJ 08691 (609) 259-2800 Fax: (609) 259-9311 www.webtech-hts.com Yupo Corporation 800 Yupo Ct. Chesapeake, VA 23320 (888) 873-9876 www.yupousa.com
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 31
ASSOCIATION Letter from the Chair
Every year, it seems, it has become more difficult to keep people involved with outside groups or associations. Time is more precious than ever before – and jobs are more demanding. However, I believe people underestimate the importance of keeping up with new technologies, having a central source for industry-related education and information, and finding a community where others are facing similar business challenges. If you are not a member of SPE and, specifically, a member of our SPE Decorating & Assembly Division, I encourage you to look into joining. Along with discounts you can receive for events such as the ANTEC coming up in March and our SPE Decorating & Assembly Division Topical Conference that will take place June 3-4 in Franklin, Tennessee, your membership offers much more. One nice benefit that has been added recently is the “Chain” – an email community that provides SPE members the ability to ask questions to the membership and tap into an enormous amount of knowledge from other members. It works somewhat like LinkedIn, but it comes through your email and is very easy to access. I encourage you to visit www.4spe.org and see what is available. There are several different levels of membership, depending on your needs. If you do decide to join, and you are involved in the decorating and assembly of plastics, make sure you include Decorating & Assembly as your primary or a secondary division on your membership application. I hope to see many of you at our upcoming events this spring and early summer. We are hoping to make our TopCon (that will once again partner with IMDA) the biggest and best one yet. Mark your calendar now for June 1-3 in Nashville. It will be a great conference, and it’s not a bad place to visit either. Jeff Peterson President, Peterson Publications, Inc. Chair, SPE Decorating & Assembly Division
ANTEC 2019 Heads to Detroit The largest technical conference in the plastics industry, ANTEC 2019 is known as the place where “classroom theory connects with real world solutions.” Co-hosted by SPE Detroit, the conference will take place March 18-21 at the Marriott Detroit Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan. The Decorating and Assembly Division of SPE will offer several technical sessions on Monday, March 18, from 2-5:30 p.m. Presentations in the Joliet room will cover a variety of topics, including: Innovations and New Trends in Specialty Coatings Karen Kukla, Akzo Nobel Application of 2K Injection Molding & Decorative Chrome Plating on Plastics Ari Espina, Taiyo Advancements in Decorative PVD Chromium Coatings for Polymer Substrates Michael Brazil, Vergason UV Curing Process Development and Control Kevin Joesel, Heraeus Why Test Inks and Dyne Pens Cannot Tell the Full Truth About Surface Free Energy Art Kasson, Kruss Fixtureless Laser Marking Drastically Cuts Cost of Tooling Faycal Benayad-Cherif, Foba New Developments in Adhesion Promotion Using Flame Plasma Surface Treatment – A Tutorial Joe DiGiacomo, Flynn
Peterson
32 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
2019 TopCon and IMDA Symposium Set for Nashville The SPE Decorating & Assembly Division, in partnership with the In-Mold Decorating Association (IMDA), will be holding its 2019 Topical Conference (TopCon) and IMDA Symposium on June 3-4, in Franklin, Tennessee – right outside Nashville. It will be held at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs Hotel. “We are excited to work with IMDA and Ron and Myra Schultz again this year for our event,” stated SPE Decorating & Assembly Division Chair Jeff Peterson. “There is certainly a synergy between both our groups that makes sense to co-locate together.” The two-day event will include presentations on new plastics decorating and assembly technologies, as well as the latest in in-mold decorating and labeling. There will be breakout tracks for decorating, assembly and in-mold decorating presentations. In addition, both groups will offer a series of workshops where attendees will split into smaller groups to discuss topics of interest. Topics addressed will include: • Variable Data Technologies for Decorating • Surface Treatment Technologies for Decorating/ Assembly • Improving Durability with UV, UV LED and EB Curing • Choosing the Best Option for Bright Metallic Finishes
Assembly workshops will include sessions dedicated to the best assembly/joining process for the application, automating assembly processes and solutions for joining with decorated parts. IMDA also will have a series of workshops dealing with the latest in in-mold decorating and labeling. Along with the presentations and workshops, the event will include a supplier trade fair that will run through breaks, an extended lunch and a reception following the first day of programming. IMDA will hold its annual IMDA Awards Dinner the first evening of the event as well. For registration and other details on the SPE Decorating & Assembly Division TopCon and IMDA Symposium, visit www.plasticsdecorating.com and click on the TopCon link. IMDA members can visit www.imdassociation.com for further details.
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 33
PRODUCT
Columbia Marking Tools Introduces New Features on Mite-E-MarkTM Air Impact Marker Columbia Marking Tools, Chesterfield Township, Michigan, introduced new features on the Mite-E-Mark™ Air Impact Marker. New features include additional stroke length, integrated position sensors and a low maintenance nonlube feature. This air impact marker is commonly used for economically marking lot codes, acceptance marks or machine ID codes on metal and plastic parts. The marks also may be used in staking, seating or assembly operations. For more information, visit www.columbiamt.com. Meteor Inkjet Offers Image Screening Meteor Inkjet, Cambridge, United Kingdom, enhanced its software portfolio with the integration of ScreenPro™, the ultra-high-speed screening engine developed by Global Graphics Software. Meteor develops and supplies electronics to drive all types of industrial inkjet printheads in applications as diverse as packaging, ceramics and 3D printing. The integration of ScreenPro enables Meteor to adapt contone data so that ink does not clump, coalesce, chain or produce streaks on the media. Advanced Inkjet Screens™ are available for different substrates, including Pearl for absorbent media and Mirror for non-absorbent media. For more information, visit www. meteorinkjet.com. Boston Industrial Launches High-Density Air-Drying Silicone Inks Boston Industrial Solutions, Woburn, Massachusetts, has formulated a new silicone ink, the DC-HD™ series silicone inks. The DC-HD™ series air dries to touch in 30 minutes and will completely dry in 75 seconds at 225°F (107°C). The DC-HD™ series is ideal for pad printing. Unlike other silicone inks, the DC-HD™ series has near perfect release from a printing pad. This feature enables decorators to do wet-on-wet (multi-color) printing. The DC-HD™ silicone inks have high opacity, gloss and are free of heavy metals. This ink line comes in 27 standard colors. Custom colors are available upon request. For more information, visit www.bostonindustrialsolutions.com.
36 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Comdec Offers New Industrial Printer Comdec, Newburyport, Massachusetts, now is offering Standard Machines’ SMI 2755 digital UV industrial inkjet printer. A commercial high-speed printer providing professional quality results, the machine features continuous ink supply system, economical reservoirs and ink dampening with degassing valve. The printer is capable of head cleaning during operation and ink re-circulation to prevent print head clogging. Single-pass printing unidirection/bidrection, eightchannel color system CMYK, status display screen and one key automatic ink syphoning system are included. The SMI 2755 automatically adjusts the height to prevent print head damage caused by hitting the product. With its active UV curing system, ink is cured when the print is finished. For more information, visit www.comdecinc.com.
Koenig & Bauer Develops New Digital Print Technology Tetra Pak, Denton, Texas, is to become the first company in the food and beverage carton industry to offer full-color digital printing on its carton packages, working in collaboration with Koenig & Bauer AG, with US headquarters in Dallas, Texas. The digital printing technology will simplify the complexity of design handling, reducing time from design to print and opening up new opportunities for flexibility in order placement and product customization. Beverage brands can take advantage of such added benefits as dynamic on-package printing and the ability to include a variety of designs within the same order. The full-width Koenig & Bauer RotaJET 168 digital printer is currently being built by Koenig & Bauer and will be installed at Tetra Pak’s converting plant in Denton. Field testing of the new, digitally-printed carton packages is expected to begin in early 2020 with North American customers. For more information, visit www.koenig-bauer.com. Emerson’s Automation Training Solution Aims to Close Skills Gap for Digital Industrial Workers Emerson, Austin, Texas, has introduced the Performance Learning Platform, a portable and compact automation technology training solution that enables hands-on training to prepare workers to maintain their plant safely and efficiently. The platform reinforces the competencies essential to fostering digital transformation and helps close the workforce skills
Digital Print for 3D PROJECTS
The SERVOJET can be defined as a machine with unique versatility and with innovative features which enhance quality, reliability and efficiency. Features include: • 7-color – digital white and 6-color process (HexaChrome) • Precise surface treatment and LED UV curing • Easy installation and operation
1420 Jamike Ave Erlanger, KY 41018 USA Office (859)-282-OMSO (6676)
www.omso.us
p. 36
PRODUCT
gap as the Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) era continues to change the way manufacturing and process companies do business. Emerson’s collaboration with both private industry and higher education has revealed an urgent need to address the skills gap in digital automation technologies and how it can impact an organization’s operations. For more information, visit www.emerson.com. EPS to Showcase BottleJET 2.0 at InPrint USA Engineered Printing Solutions, East Dorset, Vermont, announced the arrival of its latest cylindrical inkjet printer, the BottleJET 2.0. The BottleJET 2.0 delivers the same high-quality 1200 x 900 dpi at twice the speed. The new model is more than twice as fast as its predecessor and, like the previous model, the BottleJET 2.0 can accommodate either flator taper-walled objects. With synchronized printing and curing operation, a bottle-detection sensor and a collision sensor, the BottleJET 2.0 can be set for either manual or automatic operation. The BottleJET 2.0 will print diameters of 40 mm to 140 mm with an image length up to 220 mm. In addition, the BottleJET can be loaded with jettable varnish or primer for better adhesion to glass and metal. EPS will display the new machine at InPrint USA 2019. For more information, visit www.epsvt.com.
38 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Security Foiling Announces New Plastics Security Features The MicroPOISE™ Auto Card-Feeder PRO from Security Foiling Limited, Ipswich, United Kingdom, allows for adding personalized security features to plastic cards. The MicroPOISE quickly and cost-effectively adds personalized holographic features to PVC cards by automatically applying registered and wallpaperr holograms, signat ure panels and metallic hott stamping foils. Landscape or portrait feeding is available with the CR80 automatic feeder. With less than 15 minutes needed to change jobs, the MicroPOISE can print up to 3,500 cards per hour, with the option to save settings for repeat orders. Combining in-house holographic foil with personalized microembossing dies produces unique holographic effects without hologram origination costs. For more information, visit www. securityfoiling.co.uk.
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January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 39
ASSEMBLY
Correla ng Ultrasonic Weld Quality with Melt Layer Thickness by Alex Savitski, Ph.D.; Leo Klinstein, Kenneth Holt, Hardik Pathak, David Cermak, Dukane IAS, LLC
U
ltrasonic welding of thermoplastics is widely used by many industries to fuse together two parts in a short time without introducing additional consumables such as fasteners, adhesives or solvents. The process is fast, economical and easily automated, and it is commonly controlled by time, energy or weld distance to achieve a weld of predicted quality [1]. It is generally accepted that the most reliable control mode for the ultrasonic weld process is the “weld by distance” option, which is available with most computer-controlled welding equipment. For weld joint designs using an energy director style interface, the optimum weld distance for strength and repeatability of the weld typically is set at a value based on the size and height of the energy director. However, this setting may not guarantee that the weld will be strong and free of excessive flash. For instance, if an energy director is not melted, but rather partially deformed during the weld process, the deformation will be interpreted by the welding process controller as part of the weld distance, even though the movement occurred without melting. The result of this is a cold weld, during which there is more physical deformation than actual melting of the energy director. Possible reasons for cold weld formation may include energy director molding inconsistencies, excessive trigger force, part misalignment, incorrect frequency selection, inadequate amplitude and many others. Alternatively, reaching the programmed weld depth also can result in excessive flash. This occurs when the energy director is shorter than expected, as would occur in a part with inadequately filled energy director details (resulting from molding short shots), or with an energy director that has been damaged in handling. In this case, the part is collapsed beyond the energy director, creating an unintended melt, which results in excessive flash around the joint area.
throughout the process. Similar controls used during the hold phase allow for precise control of the material displacement during recrystallization and solidification at the end of the weld. Evaluating the value of the control features of servo-driven ultrasonic welders and comparing servo-driven welder performance against pneumatic welders was done in many independent studies [2,3,4]. These capabilities also enable the user to build a predictable melt layer, and this study was primarily focused on exploring this phenomenon. Microscopic characterization of the weld cross-section was instrumental in understanding the relationship between the control features of servo-driven welders and melt-layer thickness. The experimental data that have been assembled to date show an apparent correlation between the sufficient thickness of the melt layer in the weld and increased joint strength and consistency [5,6]. Based on the assertions above, an assumption can be made that it is possible to empirically establish a defined range of melt layer characteristics associated to known weld strength. The purpose of this study was to confirm this correlation. Once the melt-layer-thickness-to-weld-strength relationship for a given part is established, it should be possible to set up online quality control procedures based on monitoring parameters responsible for melt layer formation. Materials The parts used for this experimentation were ISTeP test parts with a 90˚ (sharp) ED (Figure 1), molded of a common Sabic grade Lexan 121R polycarbonate. This part was developed to provide a test specimen for ultrasonic welding with variable joint designs [7].
Unlike pneumatic controlled welding systems, a system utilizing a servo controller can be programmed to assure that an initial melt layer thickness exists prior to starting the downward movement of the press. Specifically, it prevents the deformation of the energy director prior to the application of the weld force from counting toward the weld distance. Additionally, servo systems also allow the user to control the propagation of the melt layer during the weld cycle by precisely varying the velocity of molten material displacement
40 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Figure 1. Innovative ISTeP test part
Proell, Inc. – Your Partner in IMD/FIM Technology, Screen and Printing Inks nd Pad P ks
Visit us at 2019 April 9–11, 1 Booth #40 Y K , e Louisvill
Pr l offers Proell f a broad range of one and two-component ink systems for decorating and marking products in industrial pad printing, as well as for toys and advertising gadgets. KS-U Fast drying, high gloss multi-purpose ink for printing on rigid PVC, polystyrene, ABS and SAN, acrylics and polycarbonate. To achieve adhesion on coated materials, polyamide, pretreated polypropylene, thermosets and metal, stoving and/or the use of hardener is recommended. KS-U has been developed for processing on highspeed machines with closed ink cups. /PSJkOÂŽ PP N
ccal ca als ls a nd a brasiio Tampo-JetÂŽ GMI shows good bras cals and abrasion. printing i ti properties t and can be used for decoSBUJOH QFSGVNF lBDPOT BOE TUBJOMFTT TUFFM QSPEucts.
NoriProp N Glossy ink system for printing on untreated polypropylene. NoriPURÂŽ
Thermo-JetÂŽ
One or two-component ink for PVC, pretreated QPMZFTUFS BOE QPMZPMFkOT BDSZMJDT QPMZDBSCPOate, wood, metal, and for use after pre-testing on polystyrene, ABS, SAN. Processed as twocomponent ink, NoriPURÂŽ shows excellent reTJTUBODF UP DIFNJDBM BOE NFDIBOJDBM JOlVences.
Multi-purpose ink for rigid and soft PVC, acrylics, polycarbonate, pre-treated polyester and QPMZPMFkOT 5IF GBTU ESZJOH 5IFSNP +FUÂŽ ink displays good printability and high resistance to chemicals and abrasion.
Sorte P
Selection of Color Shades
Glossy pad printing ink for polystyrene, ABS, SAN, acrylics and polycarbonate. Sorte P was developed especially for materials sensitive to solvents and which are prone to stress cracks.
The Proell Color Matching System consists of 12 basic colors and one lacquer which can easily be used to develop nearly any color shade. A variety of standard, transparent, and high opaque colors, half-tone inks as well as metallic and effect pigment colors are available in the pad printing range (see latest price list).
ÂŽ
Satin gloss pad printing ink for printing on untreated polypropylene. NorilitÂŽ CS Satin gloss ink system for printing on lacquered and powder coated materials, and on certain UV coated substrates. NorilitÂŽ U-SG Satin gloss pad printing ink for printing on metBMT VOUSFBUFE QPMZFTUFS kMNT QSF USFBUFE QPMZ ethylene and polypropylene, polycarbonate, powder coated and lacquered materials.
Tampo-Jet ECO Fast drying one-component pad printing ink for printing on PC, PMMA and ABS. Pre-tests are necessary for SAN and PS. TampoJetÂŽ ECO is especially suitable for decorating toys. It is free of halogens, PVC and plasticizers, cyclohexanone and formulated without aromatic solvents.
Proell printing inks and lacquers are manufactured in compliance with RoHS and REACH. Proell inks do not contain any pigments based on toxic heavy metals. The quality and environmental management TZTUFN PG 1SPFMM ,( JT DFSUJkFE BDDPSEJOH UP ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.
Tampo-JetÂŽ GMI Two-component pad printing ink for printing on glass and metals. After stoving, the printed ink kMN BDIJFWFT PVUTUBOEJOH SFTJTUBODF UP DIFNJ-
Custom-made ink and coating solutions are our business.
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Contact us. Proell, Inc.
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2751 Dukane Drive
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St. Charles, IL 60174-3343 USA
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Phone 630-587-2300
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Fax 630-587-2666
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e-mail: info@proell.us
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ASSEMBLY
Equipment Experiments were conducted using a 30 kHz 1800 W iQ Servo Ultrasonic Welder, model # 30HS180-2Q-P7, with Melt-Match® technology and an HMI running iQ Explorer II software for data collection and analysis. The tooling was a flat-face, highgain horn (with a gain factor of two) and a custom-made, drop-in style fixture. Advanced control features of the servo-driven system were utilized in this experiment including Melt-Detect™, which allows the press to hold its position on the assembly at the initiation of welding until a decrease in force is detected. When the magnitude of the force drop reaches a user-programmable value, expressed as a percentage, the downward movement of the stack continues. This force drop indicates the presence of an initial molten layer [7]. The Melt-Match® feature controls weld velocity and allows for directly controlling the squeeze flow rate of the molten material. The dynamic hold feature, which allows controlling the squeeze flow rate of the molten material and the collapse distance after ultrasonic vibration is ceased, was used. These process control features of the servo-driven ultrasonic welders are significantly different from those traditionally utilized in pneumatic welders and, based on previous research, allow precise control of the welding process [5-10]. For tensile testing, a Com-Ten Industries test stand used with ANDILOG Variable Speed Controller, and SPIP S9/20 load cell with 22,250 N capacity (accuracy of +/- 0.5%, cross head speed of 4 mm/min) was used with a custom designed fixture, as in Figure 2. Failure load was identified by peak tensile force at break. A n O l y m p u s SZ X 10 microscope with polarized l ig ht c a p a bi l it ie s a n d SC50 digital camera were utilized for microscopic characterization of the weld area. Experimentation Parts were welded using previously optimized weld process settings and tested by va r y i ng on ly t h ree critical process parameters – weld velocity, dynamic hold distance and dynamic Figure 2. Custom pull test fixture hold velocity. In the first part of the experiment, dynamic
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hold settings were disabled and the following weld velocities, were investigated: 0.5 mm/s, 1.0 mm/s, 1.5 mm/s and linearly profiled velocities of 0.4 mm/s to 0.25 mm/s and 0.25 mm/s to 0.4 mm/s. After establishing optimum process settings for weld speed, dynamic hold distance and dynamic hold velocity were varied, holding all other parameters constant. Six dynamic hold distances were evaluated, ranging from 25 microns to 175 microns, at two dynamic hold velocities of 1.0 mm/s and 3.0 mm/s. Weld strength and consistency were evaluated based on the tensile test results. Along with a tensile test, effect of weld velocity on weld formation was also assessed by microscopic characterization of the weld zone. Representative welds were cross-sectioned, inspected and photographed under the microscope. Their geometric characteristics were analyzed by measuring the melt layer thickness. The force and distance diagrams generated by the welder were analyzed for each sample. Representative graphs were correlated to weld strength, melt layer shape and thickness. Analysis of the weld graphs was instrumental in understanding how controlling material melting and displacement during the various stages of the weld formation affects resulting weld morphology. Results and observations Tensile test results show that a slow, gradual profiled weld velocity (0.25 mm/s to 0.40 mm/s) resulted in the strongest welds (Table 1). Application of low forces to the molten material after the initial melt as detected by the system allows for melt propagation and melt layer buildup in mating parts, which is evident by the melt zone shape observed under the microscope, as shown in Table 1 and Figure 3. Failure load standard deviation
Weld speed
Average failure load
Melt layer thickness
(mm/s)
(N)
(μm)
(N)
(%)
1.5
1547
289
176
11.4
1.0
2020
356
310
15.4
0.5
2730
469
706
25.9
0.4-0.25
3619
535
882
24.4
0.25-0.4
3997
561
763
19.1
Table 1. Weld velocity, failure load and standard deviation for five different weld velocity profiles (15 samples each)
Special attention was given to correlate the weld strength to the melt layer thickness, and such correlation was confirmed by inspecting the weld cross-sections. It was found that thickness of the weld zone correlates closely with the tensile strength of the samples, with stronger welds having more regular melt layer shape and larger, more consistent thickness. The observed correlation was very pronounced and consistent through all the samples cross-sectioned. The best results were observed using a profiled weld velocity. The application of moderate forces at the later stages of the process generated a steady linear displacement rate. The importance of a steady melt rate, which creates a homogenous molecular structure and a stronger weld, was confirmed by the results of these trials. Additionally, data generated during this investigation appear to be in agreement with the results of a study conducted at The Ohio State University in 2011. Researchers demonstrated that using a defined velocity profile, with a slower velocity during
Figure 3. Average failure load and melt layer thickness vs. weld velocity for five velocity profiles
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ASSEMBLY
melt initiation and a faster velocity in the middle and end of the weld, increases weld strength, shortens weld time and reduces surface marking [4]. The reason for these advantages appears to be due to the generation of a larger, more consistent melt layer. Matching melt propagation with material displacement, i.e. Melt-Match®, is a key to ensuring a strong, consistent bond, but further research is required to verify this assumption. Previous studies have shown that resulting melt layer thickness is also affected by the dynamic hold distance and velocity [2], which were investigated in this study. As demonstrated by the extreme cases of dynamic hold distance in this experiment (Figures 4, 5), a weld utilizing 3 mm/s dynamic hold velocity had, in general, a steeper slope of the force/time curve during the dynamic hold cycle than did a weld with 1 mm/s. More specifically, this implies that time is a driving variable, as higher velocity results in shorter hold cycles. Further experimentations are underway to confirm this observation.
Figure 4. Force vs. distance graph for 0.175 mm dynamic hold (1 mm/s and 3 mm/s dynamic hold velocity)
However, as was observed, all welded samples using the optimum weld velocity settings, specifically a linear profiled velocity profile of 0.25 mm/s to 0.4 mm/s, failed through the parent material regardless of the dynamic hold velocity and dynamic hold distance, as shown in Table 2.
Figure 5. Force vs. distance graph for 0.0375 mm dynamic hold (1 mm/s and 3 mm/s dynamic hold velocity) 1 mm/s Dynamic Hold Velocity
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3 mm/s Dynamic Hold Velocity
Dynamic Hold Distance (μm)
Average Failure (N)
Failure Mode
Average Failure (N)
Failure Mode
25
3122
Part
3522
Part
37.5
2734
Part
4069
Part
50
3018
Part
3510
Part
75
3165
Part
3554
Part
125
3394
Part
3544
Part
175
3495
Part
3114
Part
Table 2. Failure loads for parts welded with various dynamic hold distances and at two dynamic hold velocities
Microscopic inspection of the weld zone illustrates a strong indication of increased level of residual stress for a high dynamic hold distance, shown by a significant increase in the number of fringe lines, as has been previously reported [2]. Figures 6, 7 and 8 further illustrate representative microphotographs of three distinct dynamic hold displacements. It was also noted that the melt layer thickness remained unchanged after reaching its minimum at 37.5 micron hold distance, regardless of the programmed dynamic hold distance value. As material solidifies, further increase in force required to gain additional weld collapse does not produce any added material displacement, but instead results in increased residual stress in the weld.
Figure 6. Cross-section illustrating stress lines for 37.5 μm dynamic hold displacement (1 mm/s, representative image)
Figure 7. Cross-section illustrating stress lines for 75 μm dynamic hold displacement (1 mm/s, representative image)
p. 45
ASSEMBLY Servo-driven welding equipment also allows the user to actively manipulate the hold phase by programming the amount of material displacement while controlling its squeeze flow rate. These control features made it possible to control the melt layer formation during the hold phase. It was confirmed that some material displacement during the dynamic hold phase, resulting from moderate force application to the molten material, is beneficial to weld strength and a small pull strength standard deviation. As material solidifies, a further increase in force to gain additional hold collapse does not produce any added material displacement and results in increased residual stress in the weld.
Figure 8. Cross-section illustrating stress lines for 125 μm dynamic hold displacement (1 mm/s, representative image)
Conclusions This study confirms that a defined velocity profile – with a slower velocity during melt initiation and a faster velocity in the middle and end of the weld – results in stronger, more homogeneous welds which can be correlated to a specific melt layer thickness.
Associating a specific weld velocity profile and dynamic hold settings with formation of a homogeneous melt layer in the interface of the assembly offers a key approach to selecting optimum welding parameters. The results of this study confirm that the thickness of the melt layer closely correlates with the strength of the weld joint. Consequently, this makes the thickness of the melt layer a major predictor of the weld quality. The capabilities of servo-driven welders in controlling material flow during every stage of the welding cycle enable a user to empirically establish a defined range of melt layer characteristics correlated to known weld strength. This allows the user to reuse the best velocity profile and dynamic hold parameters to generate an optimum melt layer thickness for a given joint geometry. Considering high repeatability and accuracy of servo-driven ultrasonic welders, maintaining these settings in manufacturing processes should result in anticipated melt layer thickness and joint strength. This approach for selecting welding parameters and controlling welding process offers users a significantly more robust way to assure weld quality in manufacturing operations. Established in 1922, Dukane is a diversified global manufacturer of advanced technology products. The company designs and manufactures plastic welding products for different manufacturing operations around the world. Among the many markets served by Dukane’s products are the automotive, medical, food and packaging industries. A privately held corporation for more than 95 years, Dukane’s principal manufacturing and distribution facility is located in the western Chicago suburb of St. Charles, Illinois. View this article at plasticsdecorating.com for the full list of references.
46 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
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TRENDS
The Evolu on of Pad Prin ng by John Kaverman, president, Pad Print Pros LLC
L
ooking back to the late 1980s, it is easy to see how the industry has evolved. At that time, pad printing was just beginning to compete with hot stamping and screen printing. Additionally, sealed ink cups had just been invented. By the mid-90s it was not uncommon for large manufacturers to have dozens of pad printing systems dedicated to printing the same parts, over multiple shifts, for years. Meanwhile, hundreds of small contract decorators survived by running service orders. While a few of the dedicated systems featured automatic loading and unloading, the majority were manual load/unload, singlecolor machines with pneumatic drive systems and very little, if any, flexibility.
The most successful pad printers make use of highly efficient systems that allow for greater flexibility and better process control.
As manufacturing moved off shore, smaller shops disappeared. By the 2008 recession, only those decorators that had made the conscious decision to upgrade their equipment and processes were left. On the other hand, many equipment and consumable suppliers either expanded to include other technologies as part of their offerings or disappeared. Today, those companies that are the most successful with pad printing are utilizing newer, highly efficient pad printing systems that offer flexibility and substantially more process control than those offered by their older counterparts. So, what constitutes a highly efficient, flexible pad printing system with more process control? First, start with efficiency, or, more specifically, energy efficiency. The average cost of commercial electricity in the United States in 2018 was $0.1074 per kilowatt (Kw) hour.1 Adding in the associated fees that most power companies tack on, that cost ends up being a loaded cost of ~ $0.1794 per Kw hour. A typical, single-color, 90 mm pneumatic pad printer working at an average of 1,000 cycles per hour will require about 2.7 natural liters (NL) of compressed air at 90 p.s.i. That is the equivalent of about 950 cubic feet per hour, or 16 cubic feet per minute. It takes about 0.25 horsepower (HP) to generate one cubic foot per minute (CFM).
48 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Therefore, it takes about .207 Kw to generate the necessary horsepower to generate one CFM. Thus, it will take 3.3 Kw to power that printer for one hour.
Precision Welding For Critical Plastic Components
Taking the math a step further, $0.1794 x 3.3 Kw x 2,000 hours = $1,184.00 per shift, per year to operate the pneumatic printer. The equivalent all-electric pad printer, however, requires only 0.5 Kw per hour to do the same amount of work. That equals $179.40 per shift, per year to operate. Assuming the air delivery system is 100% efficient, that equals a savings of $1,004.60 per shift, per year. Considering that a leak resulting in a line pressure drop of just 25 millibars equals a 2% loss of efficiency2, the savings that most people see when they switch to electric machines is substantially higher. Second, it’s important to determine whether operators are making the most of a machine’s capacity. If using part conveying accessories, are they fully integrated? Full integration means that the pad printer and part conveying accessories have synchronous operation; both are moving at the same time instead of one waiting for the other to complete a movement or series of movements. If they are not fully integrated, valuable cycle time is being wasted. All-electric pad printing systems with fully integrated part conveying accessories will have a substantially higher throughput than partially integrated pneumatic systems. The third thing to consider is further increases in system efficiency with the addition of automated loading and unloading. Imagine a company with integrated multi-axis robots to load and unload its pad printing systems. It is running large parts on multiple-color (six or seven) systems, with multiple axis part conveying. That company can expect to see double-digit increases in efficiency as a result of integrating robots. Even a simple plug-and-play, single-axis automatic eject can have a significant impact on system efficiency. Next, consider flexibility: Can the machine be easily reconfigured for the next job? Having the ability to switch out different ink cup diameters and cliché sizes, as well as the ability to adjust the pitch (center-to-center) dimensions on accessories, is especially useful when tasked with printing a wide variety of part geometries. So, too, is the ability to activate or deactivate axes of motion of conveying parts when tasked with printing on different planes within a single machine cycle. Furthermore, having the ability to remove multiple ink cups and clichés as single assembly, and quickly replace them with another, while maintaining tight tolerances is beneficial. Some machines allow operators to change over six- or seven-color jobs in 10 minutes or less, even when completely different part geometries are involved. Finally, consider process control. It is safe to assume that few, if any, of the people reading this still have an old flip phone in their pocket, much less an old rotary-dial phone sitting on the
The Branson GSX Ultrasonic Welding Platform meets the growing demand for the assembly of smaller and more complex plastic components. Precise welds are achieved utilizing an advanced electromechanical actuation system that provides unprecedented control and position accuracy, while applying the industry’s lowest trigger force. The Branson GSX can also weld across multiple parameters, monitored in real-time to ensure quality. This is possible with a wide range of input materials and best-in-class repeatability across multiple Branson GSX welders.
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For product information: Emerson.com/Branson
The Emerson logo is a trademark and a service mark of Emerson Electric Co. © 2018 Emerson Electric Co.
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TRENDS
corner of the desk. So why do some people insist on using pad printing technology that is the technological equivalent of an old, rotary phone? Modern, all-electric pad printing systems give the operator independent, digital control of pad stroke distances, speeds in all axes of motion, programmable delays in fractions of a second at the beginning and end of each axis of motion, and many other process controls that older, pneumatic – and even some electrical-mechanical – machines do not offer.
Those companies that are the most successful with pad printing are utilizing newer, highly efficient pad printing systems that offer flexibility and substantially more process control than those offered by their older counterparts.
Think of the convenience of simply programming a 25/100th second delay in the transfer stroke to optimize image quality with the touch of a button instead of spending 20 to 30 minutes fiddling with ink viscosity and the blow dryer taped to the machine’s guarding.
Maybe a part requires printing on two different planes. With independently programmable transfer strokes, it is possible to accommodate that requirement in one set-up/cycle instead of having to process the parts twice. Those are just three examples of the benefits of modernized process controls.
In a different scenario, perhaps imagine a set of four parts with similar geometries. With a programmable, stepper motor-driven rotary table accessory, it’s possible to tool up a 12-station dial for three sets of four nests, program the indexing accordingly, and then print one version of the parts and change tooling with the touch of a button instead of having to use tools to switch out tooling manually.
Digital control allows for the ability to accurately change, quantify and verify all processing parameters with the touch of a button or screen. In addition, all-electric pad printing machines are, by nature of their control systems, easier to integrate with corona or plasma for pre-treatment, UV, near infrared (NIR) or hot air for post-treatment, and even cameras for vision inspection. Modern controls provide the input and outputs necessary to control many peripheral accessories without the need for a separate programmable logic controller (PLC), therefore reducing cost.
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Pad printing technology has continuously evolved over the course of the past 30 years. To remain competitive in today’s manufacturing environment, it is essential to take advantage of advancements in machine efficiency, flexibility and process control. Don’t fall prey to what is referred to as “the vicious cycle of under-investment” by insisting upon the continued use of outdated technology. By investing in technology, companies will experience reduced operating costs and increased productivity and efficiency. At the end of the day, that is what it’s all about. Sources
1. Electric Power Monthly. Data for October, 2018. Release date Dec. 26, 2018. 2. Top Tip: Efficient Compressed Air Management. www. atlascopco.com, 2018 Altas Copco UK Holdings Ltd.
John Kaverman is president of Pad Print Pros, Inc., an independent consulting firm specializing in pad printing machines, methods and materials. Kaverman, who holds a degree in printing technology, has more than 30 years of industry experience in capacities including production, process and systems engineering, technical sales and service. For more information, visit www.padprintpros.com.
Kaverman
INDUSTRY NADA Forecasts 16.8 Million New-Vehicle Sales in 2019 The National Automobile Dealers Association, a trade group representing US-franchised new-car dealerships, is forecasting sales of 16.8 million new cars and light trucks in 2019. With a strong finish last December, new light vehicle sales topped 17.3 million units in 2018, marking the fourth best sales year in US history. Last year, consumers continued to abandon car segments. Light trucks accounted for 69% of sales, while cars accounted for 31% of sales. In 2017, the ratio was 65% light trucks and 35% cars. About 10 years ago, the sales mix consisted of 48% light trucks and 52% cars. For more information, visit www.nada.org.
electrical, mechanical, machining, programmable logic controls (PLC’s), welding, fabrication and HVAC instruction. Apprentices completing this program will be multicraft certified and equipped to handle a variety of maintenance issues. The grant will fund tuition, book and material costs for each apprentice over four years. In addition, the grant allocates money to purchase new equipment and supplies that will be housed in the college’s new Advanced Manufacturing Training Center in Kannapolis, North Carolina, which is slated to open at the end of 2019. For more information, visit www.rccc.edu/.
New Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Apprenticeship Program Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, with six campuses in North Carolina, announced a $200,000 investment from Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas to support the college’s new Multicraft Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship program. The funds will be used to connect students with hands-on training and career development opportunities. The program will offer apprenticeship instructions on
Atlas Holdings Acquires Saxco International Atlas Holdings LLC, Greenwich, Connecticut, announced that it has acquired Saxco International, LLC (Saxco), a North American value-added distributor of rigid packaging to the wine, spirits, craft beer and food markets. Saxco offers a broad range of products and services, including glass, metal and plastic containers, capsules, internal process and quality standards. For more information, visit www.fobalaser.com.
NEW FACES Steve Lynn Returns to FUJIFILM FUJIFILM North America, Graphic Systems, Hanover Park, Illinois, announced the return of Steve Lynn in the new role of director of inkjet sales, leading all inkjet sales initiatives in the Commercial and Sign & Display segments. Lynn will help the company increase its awareness and market penetration in these areas. For more information, visit www. fujifilminkjet.com. Lynn
Heczko
Alltec GmbH Appoints Heczko as Managing Director Stefan Heczko has been appointed m a n a g i n g d i r e c t o r fo r A l lt e c GmbH (FOBA Laser Marking + Engraving), a leading laser marking technology company, headquartered in Selmsdorf, Germany. Customer service, international growth and innovation will be the prime focus of his leadership, as well as the implementation and development of
52 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Oransky
Strunk
Roland DGA Appoints Andrew Oransky CEO Rol a nd D GA C or p or at ion , a n Irvine, California-based provider of digital imaging and 3D devices for professionals, announced that Andrew Oransky has been appointed the company’s new CEO. Oransky has served as president, responsible for day-to-day operations at the company, since 2016. In his expanded role as CEO, Oransky will assume overall responsibility for company st r ateg y a nd pe r for ma nce a nd will report directly to the board of directors at parent company Roland DG. For more information, visit www.rolanddg.com/en.
Inkcups Appoints Global Director of Pad Printing and Supplies Inkcups, Danvers, Massachusetts, announced the promotion of Jay Strunk to the new position of global director of pad printing and supplies. In his new role, Strunk is responsible for overseeing worldwide sales for the pad printing and supplies businesses at Inkcups.
closures, custom packaging and mold development. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Saxco was founded in 1936 and led for many years by Herb and Keith Sachs before being acquired by The Sterling Group in 2010. Today, the company serves a customer base of more than 5,000 wineries, distillers, brewers and specialty food manufacturers across North America. Saxcoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s broad product line and distribution capabilities are complemented by a diďŹ&#x20AC;erentiated suite of other services, from brand and packaging design to warehouse and logistics management. For more information, visit www.saxco. com or www.atlasholdingsllc.com. 3M Develops Global Adhesive Solutions Lab 3M, St. Paul, Minnesota, developed the Global Adhesive Solutions Lab to provide one-on-one at tention and individualized solutions designed to advance its customers' overall manufacturing processes. The Global Adhesive Solutions Lab encourages collaboration and engagement with professional application engineers who are at the ready to support customers in a personalized setting. Onsite, automated dispensing equipment and robotic cells from various manufacturers also are available, giving customers the chance to observe adhesive applications ďŹ rsthand and interact with available tools to help ensure optimization. This stateof-the-art laboratory will serve as a useful tool for customers interested in identifying solutions speciďŹ c to their businesses. Users will beneďŹ t from personalized product and process recommendations, including help identifying adhesive solutions for their applications. For more information, visit www.3m.com. InPrint USA Launches â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ask the Expertsâ&#x20AC;? at 2019 Show InPrint USA, the exhibition of print technology for manufacturing, is launching â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ask the Experts,â&#x20AC;? where visitors can schedule complimentary consultations with some of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most accomplished professionals. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ask the Expertsâ&#x20AC;? pavilion will provide visitors with consultations with some of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most accomplished professionals. One of the experts will be Craig Reid, inkjet evangelist and founder of CTR Resources, a consultancy ďŹ rm specializing in digital inkjet in the packaging and decorative print industries. Deborah Corn will be an expert, as she is a leading voice in the print industry, from her well-known podcast on The Printerverse at Print Media Centr to hosting #PrintChat on Twitter. John Sillies, executive vice president of Graphic Systems Services, also will be an expert, with extensive knowledge and experience in the graphic arts and printing industry. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ask the Expertsâ&#x20AC;? program is free to registered visitors of the show. To register for the exhibition and schedule a consultation with one of the InPrint Experts, visit www.inprintusaexhibition.com. Early bird registration rates end March 15. ď Ž
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MANAGEMENT
Using a B.O.L.D. Approach to Succeed in an Unpredictable Business World by Jill Johnson, president, Johnson Consulting Services
T
he current economic, political and social environment is exceptionally volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. It has become increasingly difficult to develop strategies for success when there are new challenges threatening an enterprise’s survival all the time. One of the most effective methods leaders can employ to navigate in this unstable business climate is to take a B.O.L.D. Approach. This four-point framework will help leaders focus on gaining the insight and critical skills needed to thrive.
B
Business strategy – grow the organization with purpose and prosperity Strong leaders need to rethink their approaches to planning. Stop engaging in strategic planning focused on fun and/or bonding events with vision-quests about idealistic wishes for the future. This results in ineffective plans and reports that collect dust. Focus instead on grounding all planning efforts by gaining the information and insight needed to develop effective business strategies. Leverage all available emerging opportunities and minimize the risks that an uncertain business landscape creates for the enterprise. Those who thrive in an unstable environment focus on understanding the potential future of evolving trends. So, what next? Let go of old ideas. Coalesce business strategies around innovation and adaption. Build sustainable success on a viable future that is grounded in a full understanding of the situation, not on wishful thinking. Manage transitions effectively by hiring more sophisticated talent to match the company’s evolving needs. Consider how to leverage new opportunities to enhance operation and profitability.
O
Opportunities – uncover potential to achieve results Effective strategic planning in turbulent times requires a deep assessment of market opportunities. This environment is driven by significant market forces that influence success and long-term potential. These market forces impact a company’s lifecycle and the ongoing value of the product or service offered to consumers. Leaders must fully understand the impact of market forces that determine their ability to survive and thrive.
54 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Staying close to the target market is crucial to long-term success. But market needs, wants and desires change over time. Leaders must understand how their market is changing and why. To remain feasible, determine what is needed to change to meet those evolving market needs. There are eight key market forces impacting most businesses today: shifting demographics, competitive actions, fluid economic conditions, unstable capital markets, governmental interference impacting regulations and reimbursement, technology evolution, workforce skills and capabilities, and industry changes as organizations adapt to these forces and generational shifts. Leaders have little to no control over these market forces. Yet they must continually adapt and adjust their strategies to respond to them.
L
Leadership – lead with confidence and effectiveness It takes many, many hours to master a skill or hone expertise. Don’t expect to be an effective leader in the beginning. It takes time. Building insight to effectively navigate stormy strategic waters will take time too. Asking the right questions is the foundation of an effective strategic mindset. Yet learning to ask the right questions is extremely difficult because most people only ask superficial questions that have easy answers. Asking challenging questions allows for a deepened understanding of the impact of each market force and its influence on long-term potential for success. Effective leaders in turbulent times are not afraid to listen to divergent perspectives. They understand that their ability to take corrective action before things go completely haywire requires candor from their teams and a full understanding of the market forces.
Confident leaders use objective advisers to get to the truth and to push their teams. Look for real expertise that has proven results. Stay away from advisers offering strong sales hype and marketing sizzle. They can do lasting damage to an enterprise.
D
Decision making – gain the clarity needed to thrive Effective decision making in an uncertain and unstable world begins with a desire for clarity. Gaining clarity requires a complete and candid understanding of the situation. Truth provides information. Well-researched information gives insight. Insight provides the clarity needed to set the right priorities and focus teams on the most critical activities impacting their success. Leaders must make sure they are not operating under a false set of assumptions that were correct at one time but have not been updated to reflect the current situation. If their assumptions are wrong, the ability to make good decisions will be severely limited by the skewed viewpoint. It is critical that leaders reassess their assumptions about the future. Getting the right information for effective decisionmaking is essential. Look for more than superficial answers to the critical issues. Be willing to invest the time and money to bring in a fresh and different point of view to discover the truth.
The value of taking a B.O.L.D. Approach? By taking a B.O.L.D. Approach, leaders will integrate an action plan for uncertainty into every facet of their strategic mindset. By asking challenging questions to understand current and evolving situations, leaders will build their confidence that they are developing the business strategies to enhance their success. They will uncover the potential in their markets. They will be more confident and effective leaders. They will make better decisions. As a result, others will be more confident in following their lead. If leaders demand more of themselves and their teams, they too will think more strategically, become more effective leaders, make better decisions and achieve results designed to create lasting success for their enterprises. Jill Johnson is the president and founder of Johnson Consulting Services, a highly accomplished speaker and an award-winning management consultant. Johnson helps her clients make critical business decisions and develop marketbased strategic plans for turnarounds or growth. For more information on Jill Johnson, please visit www.jcs-usa.com.
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January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 55
STRATEGIES
An cipa ng the Future of Industrial Inkjet with InPrint USA Excerpt from InPrint USA white paper: “Industrial Inkjet: Crossing the Chasm?”
I
ndustrial print is the emerging technology for so many facets of manufacturing, allowing for short-run, customized projects for increased profitability without compromising efficiency. As InPrint USA prepares for its 2019 show, it is a good time to ask, where exactly is the industry going and at what pace?
Which of the following stages best describes where industrial inkjet is on the growth curve? 50% 45% 40% 35% 30% 25%
The future of inkjet In October 2018, InPrint conducted and published an industrial print survey and report called “Industrial Inkjet: Crossing the Chasm?” which focused on the growth of industrial inkjet. InPrint teamed up with research partner I.T. Strategies, an independent, strategic consultancy specialized in industrial digital printing, inkjet technology and early market development practices. InPrint asked 115 respondents their opinion on a variety of issues related to the growth, challenges and opportunities of industrial inkjet. Results compared very favorably to a similar survey conducted in 2017, highlighting an increase in confidence that significant growth will take place throughout the next 12 months.
20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Initial Entry
Fast Early Development
Steady Growth
Plateau
Mature
Survey of 115 Respondents
What sector do you think offers the best immediate opportunity for industrial inkjet technology? 45% 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15%
The report features analysis and commentary 10% 5% from Mark Hanley, president of I.T. Strategies. 0% “These results reflect a market that is confident Décor Packaging Functional 3D Direct to Shape Electronics (patterning of in the future but also honest about the challenges active materials) confronting it today,” Hanley said. “The reality Survey of 115 respondants is that inkjet is attempting to enter a very conservative manufacturing industry that is not predisposed to change. The disruptive nature of inkjet is not technically challenging within industrial inkjet. Nevertheless, always welcomed by production professionals who have been most respondents believe the growth curve for industrial inkjet brought up in a culture of analog. This is understandable but, technology is either in the fast, early development stage or nonetheless, frustrating. Growth is going to happen, but in steadily growing. some sectors, inkjet is taking longer than initially expected to Adopting industrial inkjet technology into a larger production find its true role.” process requires collaboration across the entire supply According to the survey, respondents named décor and chain including inks, substrates, software, printheads and packaging as the industries with the most immediate machinery. When asked what they considered to be the single opportunity within industrial inkjet technology. Decorative most important component to developing industrial inkjet, applications include plastics, glass, textiles, flooring and respondents overwhelmingly chose ink chemistry. It appears furnishing. Packaging applications ranged from corrugated the availability of inks has improved in recent years; however, and folding cartons to flexible packaging, which can be the compatibility between inks and materials still requires classified as bags, pouches, labels, wraps and more. Over 50% development and understanding. of respondents surveyed chose functional printing as the most
56 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
www.hotstampsupply.com 1.877.343.4321
While inkjet has taken longer than expected to find its place in the industry, experts agree that, with the push toward the fully automated digital factor, it is only a matter of time before digital inkjet makes a name and market for itself.
Shortly after conducting the report, InPrint hosted a webinar with the same title featuring a panel of experts from leading industrial print companies, gathering their thoughts on the survey from a supplier’s perspective. When discussing the challenges of industrial inkjet adoption, the example of ceramics was highlighted as the perfect storm, where the industry saw substantial inkjet adoption over analog printing. However, the mass implementation of inkjet technology is still in the early stages, with questions as to why industrial inkjet has not made it into other markets at the same success rate as ceramics. One point made by the panel indicated that the process wasn’t necessarily easier for ceramics, there just happened to be an isolated group focused on developing digital print for ceramics. The industry is currently seeing individual efforts leading development, i.e. ink companies improving inks, print head manufacturers enhancing print heads, but there is not a strong community dedicated to each application and its full potential with industrial inkjet. “The challenges ahead are as much commercial as they are technical,” said Marcus Timson, co-founder of InPrint. “It seems that traditional print culture is holding back progress but, with the relentless push toward the fully automated digital factor, it is just a matter of time before inkjet makes the leap across the chasm for a number of new markets.” Explore the latest industrial print solutions for functional, decorative and package printing at InPrint USA, which will be held April 9-11, 2019, at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville. For the full report on industrial inkjet referenced in this article, and to register, visit inprintusaexhibition.com.
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p. 57
STRATEGIES
Photo from InPrint USA 2017 courtesy of Mack Brooks Exhibitions
InPrint 2019 Offers Something for Everyone Growing with the industry New show features at InPrint USA 2019 promise to deliver opportunities for education and engagement on the growth of industrial inkjet, as well as digital, specialty and screen print solutions for manufacturing integration. Whether visitors are new to the industry or have been in it for a while, there will be something for everyone to take away from the event. InPrint USA is co-located with the ICE USA, the International Converting Exhibition, and both shows have established a new partnership with the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), which has served as the voice of the flexible packaging industry since 1950. The Flexible Packaging Pavilion, located on the show floor, will allow visitors of both shows to cross-educate on the latest flexible packaging solutions in the printing and converting industry. Returning to InPrint is IMI Tech Talks, where leading OEMs highlight the latest developments and challenges within industrial inkjet technology. Tech Talks will run within InPrint’s highly attended conference program at the InPrint Theater, located on the show floor. Location, location, location “According to Forbes, Louisville ranked number one in the nation for manufacturing and continues to stay in the top 10 going into 2019,” said Christina Molina, InPrint USA show manager. “Being centrally located between the Midwest and Northeast regions of the US, and within a day’s drive to more than half of the population, puts the InPrint show strategically in a great spot to attract key visitors our exhibitors want to meet.” InPrint visitors consist of brand owners, CTOs, R&D directors, production developers and designers, end users
58 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
and more. Some key companies that attended last year’s show include Boeing, Nike, Coca-Cola, Proctor & Gamble, Hallmark, Kimberly Clark and GE Appliances. To help identify key visitors, InPrint established new partnerships with leading end user groups for the 2019 show, proving the need for a dedicated forum of print in manufacturing. To date, these include: • • • • •
Wallcoverings Association Kentucky Automotive Industry Association Flexible Packaging Association National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers National Graphene Association
“We are very excited about the partnership with InPrint USA,” said Dave Tatman, executive director of the Kentucky Automotive Industry Association (KAIA). “It is critical for our members to be aware of new solutions and cuttingedge technology for automotive manufacturing, and we are thrilled that InPrint USA is bringing solution providers to our backyard.” InPrint USA will be April 9-11, 2019, at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville. For more information, visit inprintusaexhibition.com and register today.
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 59
TECH WATCH
SIMPLESTAKE’s Impulse Staking Technology Edited by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Decorating
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IMPLESTAKE, a subsidiary of ToolTex, located in Grove City, Ohio, developed a new technology to solve issues common with staking methods. “Traditional heat staking is a messy business altogether,” Josh Clark, national sales manager, said. SIMPLESTAKE utilizes impulse staking technology to provide a new level of system control and heating on demand. “Without a certain level of control for the individual stakes, manufacturers are at the mercy of the system as a whole,” Clark continued. “A very laborious and difficult set-up process is required to obtain and then maintain a consistent weld for plastics parts.” SIMPLESTAKE, with its independent control system, allows manufacturers a simple way to dial in a weld and produce a consistent part. SIMPLESTAKE technology eliminates one of the biggest challenges in plastic staking – the “stringing” effect. “This happens when a consistent temperature on the heating probe cannot be maintained, and the plastic boss is pulled away from the part before it has been properly cooled, resulting in the plastic stringing away from the parts,” Clark said. Stringing makes the part unusable while also creating time-consuming changes to the system that are needed to rectify the issues. SIMPLESTAKE eradicates this exceptionally difficult maintenance process, which could cost a manufacturer significantly due to machine downtime. SIMPLESTAKE also can weld both painted and metallized parts without elaborate masking needed. “Masking is the process by which certain plastic bosses are covered to ensure that they maintain weldability,” Clark elaborated. “This process is very time consuming and extremely costly.” SIMPLESTAKE, because it utilizes thermal dynamics with precise temperature control, eliminates the need for the masking process altogether on both painted and metallized parts. Another benefit of using SIMPLESTAKE is no requirement for elongated cycle times for clear plastic parts. Beyond the aforementioned advantages, SIMPLESTAKE, by the nature of its design, can achieve consistent welds in parts with tight spacing. According to Clark, “Production level parts are being manufactured currently with a plastic boss present within 1 mm of a part wall.” This is especially prevalent in medical, lighting and appliance manufacturing applications. SIMPLESTAKE also requires very little down force, typically under 2 kg, because it is a top-down weld. This means the boss itself is seeing most of the output energy and making a very strong mechanical bond once it is fully formed. The cooling system, by design, is forming the boss under pressure, so a
manufacturer gets a very tightly formed weld each time. At the final stage of the process, SIMPLESTAKE’s trademarked clean release technology is what provides an aesthetically pleasing formed boss. “We couldn’t be more pleased with the response we are receiving,” Clark said. “Some of our customers, who are powerhouse players in the world of automotive manufacturing, are telling us that this will be a market disruptor.” He said the company has done well at R&D/technology centers, which are designing plastic bosses specifically around the SIMPLESTAKE product. “At the production level, some of the most time consuming and costly aspects of heat staking have been eliminated. By doing so, the mechanical and process engineers at the plant level have been made very happy.” SIMPLESTAKE set out eight years ago to design and create an original product to help its manufacturing partners achieve better and more consistent welds on their plastic bosses. Clark emphasized, “Through years of constant improvements, innovations and technological advances, we have made a product we are very proud to manufacture right here in the US.” Technical details The SIMPLESTAKE welding process is a form of highly controlled resistance heating. The tip is specially designed to heat only where it interfaces with the plastic, which allows for low power and heat on demand staking. In a typical cycle, the tip is brought into contact with the boss using a spring-loaded apparatus. This apparatus allows the tip to make low force contact with the part. The tip will go from ambient to around 400˚F in two seconds.
January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 61
ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS FOR PLASTICS MANUFACTURING CHALLENGES
The Sabreen Group is an engineering consulting company specializing in secondary plastics manufacturing operations. When Failure Is Not An Option – Since 1992, SABREEN has solved critical plastics problems for over 430 companies in 33 countries. We have earned a reputation of excellence for our rapid response and detailed problem-solving. Many of today’s most recognizable products are manufactured using The Sabreen Group’s game changing technologies. SABREEN’S engineering contributed to the award winning Ortho Pharmaceutical Personal Pak Contraception Case inducted into the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
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CALENDAR February 2/1-4/15: Accepting entries for 2019 IMDA Awards Competition. For more information, visit http://www.imdassociation.com/imdaawards/future-awards-competition PLASTEC West, Feb. 5-7, Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, California, plastecwest.plasticstoday.com
March ANTEC, March 18-21, Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, Detroit, Michigan, www.4spe.org BIG IDEAS Conference, March 19-20, Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach & Marina Hotel, Redondo Beach, California, www.bigideasconference.com
April InPrint, April 9-11, Kentucky International Convention Center, Louisville, Kentucky, www.inprintshow.com/usa
Become a member of SPEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Decorating & Assembly Division Q
June SPE Decorating and Assembly TopCon, June 2-4, Franklin Marriott Cool Springs, Franklin, Tennessee, www.plasticsdecorating.com/topcon-2019
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HBA Global Expo, June 11-13, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York, New York, www.hbaexpo.com PLASTEC East, June 11-13, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York, New York, www.plasteceast.com
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Access to 25,000 technical papers and presentations Discounts on SPE conferences Network with 15,000 members around the world Online access to THE CHAIN, a networking platform speciďŹ cally for the plastics industry
www.4spe.org January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 63
MARKETPLACE
For Marketplace advertising, email gayla@petersonpublications.com.
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Advertise Your Decorating and Assembly Services in the Plastics Decorating Marketplace. (For decorating and assembly service providers only – not available for suppliers to the industry.)
To learn more about how to place an advertisement in this section, call Gayla Peterson at 785.271.5801. 64 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Video Vault Plastics Decorating has created a place on its website to allow the magazine’s advertisers to display their most current videos featuring equipment and/or products.
Visit the Plastics Decorating Video Vault at plasticsdecorating.com.
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To receive a print subscription or view a free digital version, visit plasticsdecorating.com. January/February 2019 www.plasticsdecorating.com 65
SUPPLIER QUICK LINKS Assembly/Joining Equipment Emerson-Branson emerson.com/branson Page 49
Decals/Labels Central Decal centraldecal.com Page 50 Mountain Graphix, LLC mtngx.com Page 20
North Pacific International, Inc. npifoil.com Page 5
Mountain Graphix, LLC mtngx.com Page 20
GPE Ardenghi gpeardenghi.it Page 15
Hot Stamping Dies/ Tooling
North Pacific International, Inc. npifoil.com Page 5
Inkcups inkcups.com Pages 34-35
Yupo yupo.com Page 55
Koenig & Bauer (US) Inc. koenig-bauer.com Page 22
Laser Marking
Kent Pad Printer Canada Inc. kentpp.com Page 51
Die Stampco Inc. diestampco.com Page 53 h+m USA hmusadies.com Page 43
Decorating Services
Hot Stamp Supply Company hotstampsupply.com Page 57
Comdec Decorating Division comdecinc.com Page 64
Schwerdtle schwerdtle.com Page 45
Digital Decorations LLC digital-decorations.com Page 65
Hot Stamping Foils/ Heat Transfers
Production Decorating Co. Inc. goprodeco.com Page 64
CDigital cdigital.com Page 18
Digital Inkjet Equipment & Supplies
CPS Resources cpsresources.com Back cover
Engineered Printing Solutions epsvt.com Inside front cover
Custom Foils Company customfoilscompany.com Page 38
Inkcups inkcups.com Pages 34-35
Hot Stamp Supply Company hotstampsupply.com Page 57
Innovative Digital Systems ids-digital.com Back cover
Infinity Foils infinityfoils.com Page 39
Koenig & Bauer (US) Inc. koenig-bauer.com Page 22
Kurz Transfer Products, L.P. kurzusa.com Page 9
Mimaki USA mimakiusa.com Inside back cover
Mountain Graphix, LLC mtngx.com Page 20
OMSO North America, Inc. omso.us Page 37
North Pacific International, Inc. npifoil.com Page 5
Hot Stamping/ Heat Transfer Equipment
Webtech, Inc. webtech-hts.com Page 59
CPS Resources cpsresources.com Back cover
In-Mold Decorating/ Labeling
Hot Stamp Supply Company hotstampsupply.com Page 57
Central Decal centraldecal.com Page 50 Kurz Transfer Products, L.P. kurzusa.com Page 9
66 www.plasticsdecorating.com January/February 2019
Sabreen Group, Inc., The sabreen.com Page 62
Pad Printing Equipment & Supplies Diversified Printing Techniques diverprint.com Page 21 Engineered Printing Solutions epsvt.com Inside front cover Inkcups inkcups.com Pages 34-35 Kent Pad Printer Canada Inc. kentpp.com Page 51 Pad Print Pros padprintpros.com Page 4 Standard Machines, Inc./ Comdec, Inc. comdecinc.com Page 39
Printing Inks
OMSO North America, Inc. omso.us Page 37
Surface Treatment 3DT 3DTLLC.com Page 44 Diversified Printing Techniques diverprint.com Page 21 Enercon Industries enerconind.com Page 46 Inhance Technologies inhanceproducts.com Page 65
Tradeshows/Associations InPrint USA inprintusaexhibition.com Page 60 SPE Decorating & Assembly Division 4spe.org Page 63
Comdec, Inc. (Ruco) comdecinc.com Pages 11, 47, 59 Marabu North America marabu-northamerica.com Page 10 Proell, Inc. proell.us Page 41
Screen Printing Equipment & Supplies A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. awt-gpi.com Page 38 Diversified Printing Techniques diverprint.com Page 21
A guide to this issue’s Plastics Decorating advertisers.
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