API Foils launches versatile matte pigment hot stamping foil

The PG grade has an easy release and excellent adhesion, and is said to offer better opacity to help customers achieve a sharper color and better overall finish, and has a wider operating temperature window which increases productivity by improving process times. Depending on the machine type and application, it typically has activation at 85 degrees C with an operating temperature of between 100 degrees C and 1,500 degrees C.  For best results it has a recommended top temperature of 170 degrees C.

It also has good resistance to water, plasticizer migration and to wines and spirits.  It is non-toxic and meets stringent compliance and legislation across numerous industry standards worldwide.

In addition, by providing a well-defined color range in just a single grade, it is simpler for customers to choose their preferred product as PG will cover the vast majority of applications.

API Foils said the PG grade offers both fine detail and broad area coverage across a wider range of applications than any other pigment foil previously available from its portfolio.

The PG grade is the result of two years research and development, and combines the best qualities of the company’s legacy pigment foils UA and 432, delivering a number of improved product features.

Andy Kerr, responsible for international technical support at API Foils, said: ‘This new range has been developed to make product selection far easier for our customers. We have developed just one grade for most general-purpose applications, which is available in 12 well-defined colors.

‘The versatility of PG across so many applications together with its improved technical capability, means the customer can concentrate on the effect they want to achieve rather than get involved in technical considerations. Having such a grade also means that deliveries will be quicker and simpler.

‘Suitable for both fine detail and broad area coverage, PG can be used on a wide range of substrates including self-adhesive labels, coated and uncoated paper and board plus a wide range of plastics and natural materials such as leather and wood. In fact it can be used on anything from ballet shoes to brake pads.’

Manufactured in Livingston, UK, PG is available worldwide through API Foils dedicated distribution centers.

In the UK, API Foils is working in collaboration with Bolton-based Newfoil to introduce the PG grade to platen press stamping label manufacturers.

Janet Clarkson, Newfoil director, said: ‘Initial customer trials have produced some truly exceptional results and as the leading hot foil distributor in the UK, we welcome a foil that not only delivers high performance, versatility and reliability, but also provides an easy machine set-up.

‘The new PG foils are available in a well-defined range of colours and complement the comprehensive range of products that we already offer to the labeling industry.’