The Polytype plant in Fribourg has existed since 1962 – the company is considered an ‘early mover’ in today’s packaging and converting world. Building on this tradition, the Swiss machine experts now offer an R&D centre and pilot plant with a worldwide reputation that specialises in high-precision systems and high-speed machines. In the packaging segment, Polytype Converting’s products include packaging papers and films, special adhesive tapes, release liners and labelstock. At the opening of ‘Barrier Day 2024’, Brandon Babe, Senior Vice President at Matthews Engineering, addressed the customers, partners and interested parties who had travelled to Fribourg from all over the world: “We are driven by the desire to move innovation forward together with our customers and partners. We want to bring the industry together and match your needs with our engineering expertise.”
Customized equipment
The lectures were hosted by Esa-Matti Aalto, Senior Vice President and General Manager Coating & Converting Industries, Matthews Engineering. He emphasized: “We can tailor the production equipment exactly to our customers’ needs. We have around 50 different coating methods at our disposal and see ourselves as a ‘one-stop solution’ for our customers.” Norbert Runn, Sales Manager Coating & Converting Industries, Polytype Converting, then gave an overview of the opportunities and challenges in the barrier coatings segment on paper. “Sustainable and recyclable packaging materials are the most important drivers of innovation for barrier coating technologies in roll-to-roll processes for the packaging industry,” he explained at the beginning of his presentation. While the demand for packaging materials is still growing, the desire for greater sustainability is the challenge that all parties involved are facing. Runn emphasized that barrier coatings on paper can replace films made from fossil raw materials and ensure cost-efficient production. “Many trials with barrier coatings and joint development processes on our pilot lines have already led to good results,” said Runn.
Suppliers of barrier chemicals showcase their expertise
The second part of the programme focused on Polytype Converting’s suppliers and partners, who are working with the machine manufacturer on suitable formulations for barrier chemicals. Representatives from Mitsui Chemicals, BASF and Resino Inks were on hand. During a tour of Polytype Converting’s pilot plant, the guests at Barrier Day 2024 were then able to experience the company’s expertise for themselves. The day was rounded off with an exclusive dinner in the picturesque town centre of Fribourg.
This article was published in PRO Flexconvert. Magazine for Converting Professionals, issue 4, 2024.
