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Craftsman Label, Inc. - GSI Technologies, LLC -
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TLMI
1 Blackburn Center
Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978-282-1400
Fax: 978-282-3238
Questions to Clark Brown from TLMI's 2009 Technical Meeting
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Where do you buy small quantities (less than truck loads) of raw materials?
There are many sources available. Often the adhesive suppliers and liner companies work with distributors to best meet the needs of smaller converters. A search on the web will turn up many suppliers, large and small.
What web speeds can be obtained while adhesive coating?
Hot melt adhesive coating does not, in general, slow down the machine. There is no reason that full machine speeds can’t be maintained. 300-500 feet per minute on presses is not uncommon; 750-1,000 feet per minute is not uncommon on dedicated laminating lines.
Is it possible to create PS stock in-line for applications with service temperatures of 300 deg F?
Yes
What material & process would be used?
UV curable pressure sensitive hot melts can be a viable solution. These adhesives apply exactly like a hot melt but, upon curing with UV lamps, will no longer remelt. Contact your adhesive company for specifics on these types of adhesives.
On average, what run speeds can be expected when creating PS in-line? (ie, how much slower will we run vs. running purchased PS stock?)
The same
How do you answer the complexity issue around making your own PS inline?
You need to carry multiple face, adhesive & liners at multiple widths that could increase your overall cost? Creating PSA inline is certainly not for everyone. Most converters that a have manufacturing in-house have specific jobs or customers with specific needs. Short runs with many different facestocks is generally not ideal. However, many converters specialize in certain labels or tapes and then justification becomes much easier.