New short run flexible coating service

Print Solutions

Kernow has installed a new pilot coating line. It offers clients a narrow web custom coating development facility creating bespoke top coated and PSA (both solvent and emulsion acrylic) constructions.

The new coating line is primarily dedicated to product development and removes the need for investment in full scale manufacturing, yet delivers production quality by mimicking the same conditions. It will run hand in hand with a new 1.6 million modular coater which in turn will complement the four coaters already in operation.

Commenting on the new service, product development manager, Garry Hume, commented: ‘For over 40 years Kernow has been at the forefront of technological innovation and once again we are delighted to add another service to our portfolio. Our new high tech coater provides customers with a means to develop their ideas quickly, in small quantities and at a fraction of the cost of full scale manufacturing.’

Features of the new pilot coater include a 300 mm maximum width, interchangeable modular head design and two drying zones, allowing web inversion and coating both sides. This can be either two functional coatings, one side top coat, or reverse side PSA, running through an inline nip.

Kernow has also invested in an advanced, full size environmental test suite, which mimics extremes in climate. This enables harsh condition product development and the optimisation of top coatings, adhesives and liners for tough industrial and security applications.