+1.17Innovative labelling solution for maximum flexibility
DS Smith sets new standards with laser coding in the area of late stage customisation
With an innovative laser labelling process DS Smith together with Videojet Technologies, manufacturer of high-quality label solutions, is opening up completely new dimensions in the area of late stage customisation of packaging for its customers. With laser coding, correspondingly pre-printed packaging can be individually and quickly labelled with high-quality directly on the production line. The result is a significantly more efficient process design. At a well-known manufacturer in the FMCG sector, the packaging and display Specialist reduced the complexity and process costs significantly with the new procedure.
"With the significant reduction of packaging types, which we have achieved with a project for format and print layout harmonisation through the use of laser coding, there are a whole line of benefits: lower storage costs, smaller logistical and administrative effort, larger runs, greater planning reliability and maximum flexibility. At the end of the project there was a clearly palpable increase in efficiency and cost effectiveness", says Michael Lamprecht, Sales & Marketing Director at DS Smith l Packaging Division D-A-CH.
An innovative process solution
With its innovative process solution the full service packaging provider DS Smith offers its customers the highest level of flexibility when adding texts, images or codes to packaging. The quick implementation of varying country versions or content information that changes at short notice can be directly made on the packaging line.
In the flexo direct printing process on corrugated cardboard packaging the field that is designated for later individual labelling is printed with laser paint. The paint includes laser-sensitive pigments that turn into black upon contact with a laser beam through a chemical reaction. This allows pre-printed packaging layouts to directly print the individual information on the fly, or during down time, in no time at all. "Labelling using lasers generates a stable reproduction of plain writing and codes. The printing result is convincing with its permanent durability and outstanding quality," says Robert Zimmermann, Key Account Manager at Videojet Technologies.
"We are able to significantly reduce the complexity and costs of packaging processes for our customers with this process," says Lamprecht. "At the same time, we are increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of their processes."
Several benefits to laser coding:
- Maximum flexibility thanks to individualisation in the latest possible production step
- Significant reduction of packaging types
- Lower storage costs, less logistical effort
- Quicker time to market
- High quality and durability of the printed image