Demand for IML grows

IML is a high-quality method of decoration that is becoming ever more popular when the objective is to give the end product an excellent appearance with great freedom of design. And it is not only the attractiveness of the packaging that is exemplary with the IML process, but the environmental protection aspect too. In the case of non-returnable, recyclable packaging it is all the more important that the IML labels are made of the same material as the container.

For die-cutting expert Berhalter, IML has been the subject of continuous development going back over 20 years.

Particularly for the die-cutting of IML labels it has become clear that new, innovative processes must be employed in order to be able to satisfy the everchanging IML market and increasing customer requirements.

Berhalter’s B 500 high-performance flat-bed die-cutting machine was designed to meet all the demands of IML production. It has seven synchronised but separately and individually controlled servodrives; and the foil tension is fully automatically monitored and regulated. This means that exactly the same die-cutting conditions are maintained throughout the die-cutting process, irrespective of how well the reel is wound.

The demand for ever higher quality requirements is met by the integrated foil pre-centring system, as well as fully automatic foil guiding system which can align the IML foil in different ways - the edge of the foil, printed eye marks or directly the printed image. As a result the printed foil is perfectly centred to the cut, both across and in feed direction.

Important additional operations, such as the embossing/finishing of a surface texture (for better distinguishing properties), the insertion of a micro-perforation (for applications in the deep-drawn/blow moulding area), pre-cut holes (for injection nozzles) or die-cut holes for technical functions (centring aids, windows) are very easy to achieve on Berhalter’s systems.

Cost-cutting inevitably means thinner and thinner IML films. Berhalter claims to be the world’s only manufacturer of die-cutting machines and die-cutting tools to cut 40 micron labels and even thinner films.

Berhalter offers as the first manufacturer of die-cutting machines fully integrated inspection systems.

Our complete solution includes inspection of prints, but also the inspection of the web surface.

The result is 100% control and therefore assuring and increasing the quality of lids and labels.

One advantage claimed for the Berhalter systems compared with others is the fact that a counted, perfectly cut and smooth stack can be produced on Berhalter die-cutting systems.

Today, the efficient handling of the punched lids and labels is of essential importance.

Berhalter developed stack handling systems to fully automatically count, separate and handle the punched lids and label stacks.

For pharmaceutical products, the aspect of hygiene to produce uncontaminated lids plays an important role.

Another notable benefit is the systems’ virtually non-contact individual die-cutting actions with a punch/die-plate system - ideal for the avoidance of static charges.