Laser process for perforating multilayer films is in high demand

The innovative laser process developed by Empac and Münster University of Applied Sciences to simplify the processing of packaging films is in high demand. Aluminium composite films are provided with a hole pattern using a CO2 laser instead of a hot needle perforation process to prevent electrostatic discharges.

26 April 2019

Jürgen Gröninger and Sascha Wagner (Image: FH Münster/Press Office)

Jürgen Gröninger (left) and Sascha Wagner measure the size of the perforation holes on the system developed. (Image: FH Münster/Press office)

The innovative laser process for simpler processing of packaging films, which the Laser Centre at Münster University of Applied Sciences has developed with packaging manufacturer Empac from Emsdetten, is in high demand. Münster University of Applied Sciences reports many enquiries about the patented solution following the completion of the project.

Empac and the FH Münster had developed the new manufacturing process for Dissipative multilayer films was developed as part of a two-year project subsidised by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. To date, such Aluminium composite films per Hot needle perforation process with a hole pattern. This task is now performed by a CO₂-laser. The FH praises the solution found as „simple, effective and cost-efficient“.

Bayer is considering the use of special big bag films

Jürgen Gröninger and Sascha Wagner, engineers at the Laser Centre, are pleased to have received numerous enquiries since the project was completed. „Most recently Bayer The company has very high safety standards for packaging units that are used for storage and transport, for example for Medication and Chemicals."

Fully automated system from Münster University of Applied Sciences and Empac (Image: Münster University of Applied Sciences/Press Office) — Jürgen Gröninger (left) and Sascha Wagner from Münster University of Applied Sciences realised this fully automated system together with Empac. (Image: FH Münster/Press office)

At Bayer, this type of bulk material is filled into so-called big bags, transported onwards and stored. During filling and emptying, however, the materials rub against the packaging wall, which results in a Electrostatic charge - which, in combination with dust in the air, can lead to dangerous explosions. This can be remedied by a certain Bigbag-The film consists of several layers, which is partially exposed up to its integrated aluminium layer. The charges are dissipated via this conductive aluminium layer and the risk of explosion is mitigated.

The first sample bags have already been produced

The Münstersche process convinced Bayer not least because a system process was also developed that processes the film fully automatically. For Bayer Sample bag produced. This once again demonstrated the advantages of perforation with the CO₂-LaserIn our process, the laser in the system only processes the finished film in the final stage of production and exposes the required areas,„ explains Sascha Wagner. The many fine holes are made in the film at exactly the right depth.

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We reported on the project between the Münster University of Applied Sciences Laser Centre and Empac back in February last year.
New process for conductive multilayer films for bulk goods

You can gain an insight into the innovative process in a YouTube video of the FH Münster.

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