When we think about supporting the new demands in packaging converting, we usually focus on the printing, whether that is flexo, offset, digital or inkjet. While each of those technologies has evolved to address the new demands, the actual converting part has lagged behind. Until now…

Driving digital transformation and reducing environmental impact in packaging that is based upon smart factory finishing and i4.0 ideology is now the focus of most converting equipment manufacturers. Until recently, manually controlling motors on a spindle for adjustment was the state of the art. Now we have moved to a more holistic process managed with data connectivity. Connectivity can be physically connected, but also could be virtual XML feeds to a machine controller or barcode-driven workflows.

Barcodes and the connectivity of XML feeds now support the variability in digital print finishing. Intelligent setup systems based on a PLC control concept is now more available. This simplifies the formerly labor-intensive and time-consuming setup processes. The functions can include saving all settings for repeat jobs, shortening the changeover process and ensures the highest levels of productivity. The functions could also include setting up the equipment based on predefined rules and input data from preceding processes.