Canada-based film and sheet extrusion systems supplier Macro Engineering and Technology has added the option of individual layer gas foaming to its barrier blown film coextrusion lines.
The machines are used in producing high barrier films of up to 11-layers, which are 3m wide, made using materials like PA, EVOH and PVdC. It also helps in reducing material cost with the production of thicker and stiffer barrier films.
With the individual layer gas foaming option, the processors will be able to create a wider range of products by applying different combinations within the coextruded film structures.
The films produced by the equipments are primarily used in packaging food and medical products. Owing to the rigidity of the foamed films, they can be used for stand up pouches and thermoformed trays.
The use of foam helps in reducing weight which saves raw materials. It can also create useful properties in the film like improving thermal and sound insulation, and obtain opacity without the use of fillers.
Macro has also added an individual layer foaming technology to its cast barrier film lines with a 7-layer cast line installation in Europe. It produces high barrier films with layer foaming in two of the seven layers.
Similar to the cast technology, the blown system comes with individual layer foaming. The technology used in the line makes it possible to switch from foamed films to conventional multilayer films by using the same machine.
Macro is also working on a 9-layer blown film line with individual layer foam technology for a European film manufacturer which will produce high barrier films and will foam individual or different layers based on the application.
Image: The new technology will help to create a wider range of products by applying different combinations within the coextruded film structures. Photo: courtesy of Macro Engineering & Technology.
