A new printing technology dubbed ‘Sunshine’ has been introduced from the stable of Amcor’s folding carton business, a division of global packaging major Amcor Group GmbH, which offers a highly reflective metallic effect leading to a range of design possibilities.
Delivering a highly reflective metallic effect along with faster speed for a range of folding carton applications, the patent-pending technology also claims to simplify the supply chain, improve packing line performance versus laminated boards, and provide significant environmental benefits.
These synergies are achieved through a sophisticated process that consists of an in-line application of a bright silver coating over an ultraviolet (UV) or electron-beam (EB) primer.
The high reflective effect is achieved using a three-layer structure, with the first layer comprising paper board, followed by an energy-cured lacquer as second layer and a specially developed metallic coating as the third layer.
Amcor says superior brand enhancement can be achieved due to the greater reflective characteristics of the board surface after a lacquer coating is applied. This leads to more lumens of light being reflected compared to metallic inks that helps create a folding carton container with stronger shelf presence.
To be completed on a single press, the process helps remove various stages in the supply chain, leading to reduced lead times and extra transportation costs associated with conventional metallisation methods.
Amcor says Sunshine has been designed to serve as an alternative to existing multi-process technologies such as metalised board and hot foil stamping.
Commenting on the new technology, Amcor's business development director for the Americas Felix Angst said: "Sunshine technology is a cutting-edge development using the gravure printing process.
"This launch comes in response to customer demand for more efficient processes and firmly positions Amcor as a technology leader in the folding carton market."
Sunshine also aids in reducing environmental footprint as during production and application, a significant decrease in water consumption and greenhouse gases is achieved. Use of a standard board and the removal of a metallisation stage also help in reducing transportation freight costs, fossil fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions.
Sunshine has been commercialised in 2014 in the US, Europe, and Asia.
