A B Graphic International (ABG) has expanded its finishing and converting portfolio with the launch of its Integrated Nonstop Unwind, a compact system designed to support continuous production and improved operational efficiency for label converters.
The Integrated Nonstop Unwind is engineered to enable continuous production for both blank web converting and pre-printed material converting, offering splice registration accuracy of plus or minus 2mm, said the company. The system is built around the ABG’s unwinder and butt-splicer sub-assemblies and is based on existing technology intended to support reliability and ease of integration.
Fully integrated into a converter’s control platform, the solution is designed to simplify operation while reducing the overall footprint. According to the company, the system saves more than 3m of floor space compared with a conventional standalone nonstop unit, making it suitable for operations seeking to increase productivity within existing production areas.
The Integrated Nonstop Unwind is compatible with Digicon Series and ABG Converters operating at 330mm, 440mm and 540mm web widths. Wider-web compatibility is currently under evaluation. When used in combination with a Vectra turret rewinder, the system forms a nonstop configuration intended to maintain efficiency with minimal interruption.
In addition, the company plans to introduce a Matrix Turret incorporating its Automated Matrix Stripping (AMS) device. The Matrix Turret is designed to enable continuous operation without a separate extraction system. It includes an integrated face cutting station capable of cutting on a range of substrates and automatically performs a roll change when the rewind roll is full, allowing production to continue.
The combined use of nonstop unwinding, automated matrix stripping, and automated roll changeover is intended to support longer production runs and improved overall equipment effectiveness.
“Converters are under increasing pressure to do more with fewer operators, while still maintaining output and quality,” said Matt Burton, global sales director at ABG. “The Integrated Nonstop Unwind has been developed using proven ABG technology and, when combined with our automation and matrix stripping solutions, allows customers to run for longer without interruption. It’s a practical solution that improves efficiency, reduces operator involvement and helps converters get the most from their finishing lines.”
