A new type of 3D laser engraver has been developed by „Hell Gravure Systems GmbH & Co. KG“ and the cross-media brand protection agency „Schawk!“, which specialises in the packaging industry. Three metre long printing forms can be engraved with the fibre laser system in 2.5 hours.
The new 3D laser system was developed in co-operation with the Vreden branch of „Shawk!“ with Light and brought to market maturity. Hell was responsible for the technical implementation and commissioned „Schawk!“ in September 2015 to test and optimise the machine to the highest standards.
Schawk!„ Managing Director Ferat Sarac speaks of “ground-breaking results„. In terms of form and intensity, the high-resolution image achieved with the new development is 3D engraving unique to date. With up to 5,080 dpi This achieves a resolution that is more than twice as high as the HD standard.
The data for engraving is handled simply in a one-step process. The basic digital data for the print project is processed in reproduction and adapted to the subsequent print application. By means of 3D-Rip the image information is converted into a raster pattern and transformed into a defined, three-dimensional relief. The heights and depths of the relief can be customised depending on the printing substrate and machine.
The heart of the system is a Laser machine, which is equipped with two laser carriages. Each carriage is equipped with two linear motor-driven Fibre laser each configured with 600 watts. The engraving is carried out according to the TWAIN-principle. Two separately operating optical heads divide the format and the motifs arranged in the format between them. The laser system is operated using a touch display. The 3D dot design in the laser can be saved as a preset.
Ferat Sarac summarises the advantages of the new development as follows: „In addition to its simple structure, compact design and easy handling via touchscreen, the device has a very high degree of efficiency, above-average beam quality with a large depth of field.“ The high processing speed should also be emphasised. This is up to three times faster than on conventional systems. Following the test phase of the product innovation, international customer interest is high, with deliveries being made to Thailand, China, Egypt, Taiwan and the USA, among others.
Cross-media brand protection through quality features
„Schawk! was founded in 1953. The company is now part of SGK, a division of Matthews International Corporation. Schawk!„ employs consultants around the world to protect customer brands by generating quality attributes across multiple channels. The aim is also to increase supply chain efficiency and brand profitability[/infotext].
