Manufacturing Flexible Packaging

7

In-Line Processes

The chapter considers the possibility of increasing converter efficiency and profitability using equipment able to perform multiple processes in series. Typical configurations of such in-line process, for example, printing and laminating, tandem and laminating, as well printing while incorporating nonprinted functionality to a substrate, are described. The effects of mechanical and substrate variation in limiting the ability to indefinitely link multiple processes are presented. The indirect negative effects of wasted time and material that may result from inefficient operation of in-line processes are described. Conceptual design considerations for all parts of the manufacturing system that should be recognized to make in-line ...