Skymark invests in laser perforation to enhance flexible packaging output

Skymark has invested in a Universal X6 laser perforation slitter rewinder as it seeks to reinforce its position in the flexible packaging market.

The Universal X6 laser perforation slitter rewinder gives Skymark the capacity to process a wide range of flexible packaging films

The machine features the technologies available on the X6 slitter rewinder, including automatic knife and core positioning, on-screen diagnostics and remote support. Skymark’s machine features a Rofin laser system for laser perforation and scoring.

The Universal X6 laser perforation slitter rewinder gives Skymark the capacity to process a wide range of flexible packaging films. During the slitting process, films can be either perforated to modify the atmosphere within the package or scored to make packing easier to open for the consumer.  The laser scoring technology on the Universal X6 enables packaging films to be perforated to a high level of accuracy at speeds of 350m/min. This gives Skymark the ability to selectively score one or more layers of laminated film. This enables the production of ‘easy peel’ packaging that won’t compromise the barrier properties of the complete packaging.

Skymark director Paul Neath said: ‘With an ageing population and more people living independently, brands, retailers and manufacturers must subtly work to make products easier to handle; packaging needs to be simple for the user with easy open formats available.

‘This major investment demonstrates our commitment to the evolving needs of the packaging market and will enable us to extend our capabilities by offering products that are demanded by consumers; making sure they receive the best packaging design, whilst ensuring it has the desired performance and function.’

Paul Glover, commercial technical director at Skymark, addecd: ‘These developments form part of our 2020 vision with a focus on developing new products that are retailer, brand and consumer needs driven. We have always prided ourselves on delivering reliable, high quality, flexible packaging solutions for leading retailers and brands and this investment will secure our future as a leading innovator in the flexible packaging markets in the UK, Europe and North Africa, where we primarily operate.’

Alan Jones, managing director at Universal Converting Equipment, commented: ‘The growth of Skymark is mirrored by the growth of Universal. Having acquired additional buildings, Universal is set to double its output of X6 slitter rewinders in 2018. Although most of the machines are exported it is always good to supply companies that are closer to home.’

Neath conclued: ‘The investment in laser perforation and scoring capacity is part of a larger expansion program. We chose Universal as it is able to offer local support for both the slitting machine and the Rofin laser system. Universal also have over 20 years of experience with similar laser systems.’