LONDON, UK - January 07, 2009 - Sun Chemical and Keating Specialist Cylinders have developed a concept which will enable brand owners to apply effects with sensory appeal to packaging cost-effectively without altering the standard design.
The concept, which is the result of several years of research and development, sees the application of Sun Chemical’s specially developed inks utilising a unique engraved gravure cylinder, produced by Keating Specialist Cylinders, printed onto a polypropylene film, which for the purposes of the development process has been supplied by Innovia. The resulting effect can be used in place of a standard filmic overwrap for carton boxes, containing products such as cosmetics, tobacco or confectionery, to add value to the product and increase shelf standout. This approach also gives brand owners more flexibility to run short-term promotions or seasonal themes using standard packaging, while saving costs on redesigns and wastage.
A key element of the solution is the development of a new technique to engrave cells which are considerably deeper than those found on traditional gravure cylinders, while maintaining a shallow gradient. This technology allows an image to be applied using a heavier ink weight than could be delivered using standard gravure cylinders. This in turn can give the printed film an embossed effect using the specially formulated inks, without the cost or technological challenges of physical embossing. The new ink and cylinder can be used with traditional gravure presses.
Tony Palmer, business director of Sun Chemical’s packaging division, said: “Traditionally, if a brand owner wanted to launch a limited edition or seasonal design on their packaging, they would need to brief designers and print a new batch of packaging, which can be a time-consuming process. At the end of the range, there is often a substantial amount of waste packaging which can no longer be used. Using the innovative solution we have developed with Keating Special Cylinders, brand owners can add the limited edition or seasonal design to the film, which allows them to continue using their standard packaging.
“Taking the concept one step further, security taggants could also be added to the ink to provide a security and authentication solution, helping protect the product against counterfeiters. At this stage, there are a number of options for the direction we can take in order to develop this concept further and we are keen to work with printers, designers and brand owners to convert the concept into a commercial reality.”
John Simms, technical sales director, Keating Specialist Cylinders, added: “Gravure printing has been the primary printing process in the packaging sector over the last 30 years. However, as brand owners and product manufacturers demand more shelf standout for their products, and other printing processes, such as flexo and digital, become more established in the packaging sector, it is necessary to look for new ways in which gravure can add value. Using this breakthrough technology, we are confident printers can offer their customers the ‘X factor’, as well as a cost-effective solution.”