Total coverage

Total Processing and Packaging 2004 is a new show concept launched in the UK by Reed Exhibitions and its venture partner the Process and Packaging Machinery Association, with the support of the Institute of Packaging. It combines the former Pakex packaging and PPMA 'machinery only' shows, with the Eurochem and Interphex processing exhibitions under one roof.

To be held every three years, the first four-day show will take place from March 29-April 1, 2004, at the Birmingham NEC. Reed says the 'total solutions' event will do much to reduce the crowded exhibition calendar for both exhibitors and visitors, and "establish a community event in which all sectors in the value chain can develop and grow their own identity".

All elements

Total Processing and Packaging will cover all the major elements in the value chain, including packaging materials, containers and machinery, and design, production and processing, as well as the major user industry sectors of food, drinks and pharmaceuticals. Centres of excellence within the event will include Total Pharma and Total Environment, and the 250m² Packaging Innovation Show – "a showcase of the best creative thinking applied to packaging in the retail environment for the year 2020", whose sponsors include Rexam, Eastman Chemical, and the British Brands Group.

Following is a small appetizer to the 1,000 exhibitors who will occupy the approximately 50,000m² overall show area

A worldwide patent pending process that enables self adhesive labels to be produced without backing web or liner is to be launched by new company Catchpoint. It is claimed to reduce the amount of waste self adhesive labels create by over 90 per cent, while the number of labels produced and stored on a single roll is increased, resulting in less bulk and more label per roll – with immediate shipping and storage advantages. The web can be cut into the required shape with 'catchpoints' that ensure the labels can be separated as required. Coating technology allows the labels to back onto each other, peel off and then be reapplied as required.

The technology will be available under licence and Catchpoint is already working with Advanced Coatings and Sessions of York on pilot projects to create a portfolio of printing and coating solutions. Alternatively, solutions can be developed direct with end users and their nominated suppliers. Catchpoint is exhibiting with Sessions of York. Stand 4431.

Solutions

"Environmentally responsible" packaging adhesives offering new cost effective solutions to expensive recycling issues will be the central theme of the Caswell Adhesives display. The company claims its new adhesives will deal with virtually all variants of packaging and disposable material – including consumer packaging, multiwall bags, diapers, and labels. Stand 4515.

Esko-Graphics will demonstrate its full workflow from prototype to plate production. This will include ArtiosCAD 6.0, the latest structural design software, and the Kongsberg sample table for cutting and creasing. DeskPack software will present high end packaging design and trapping tools for the desktop, and flexo plates will be imaged on the CDI - Cyrel Digital Imager. Stand 3350.

Alternative

The diversity of triple layered PE film Paperfeel - from waterproof magazine wraps to robust non slip sacks for animal feed, will be demonstrated. The film is said to be as strong and moisture resistant as plastics, but with the texture, print quality and folding characteristics of paper. Applications include waterproof plant labels, sleeves for carrying glasses, bags for ice cubes, and cheese wrappings. It is available from 30-400 micron. Stand 2559.

Supreme Plastics is launching two innovations for cross-web application of resealable profiles. The compact Reseal 460X applicator can be used to create resealable pouches. The Reseal 560XS is said to be the first cross-web applicator to integrate the zipper application process with a push-on Topzip slider, and can include tamper evidence and hermetic seals. The new applicators work with Supreme's patented Keyseal zipper technology, which can be retrofitted, or built into new machinery. Stand 2704.

WLT is to introduce Simco's new PulseBar DC static neutralization bar, a compact unit for quick installation on most types of equipment. It is offered in standard sizes between 30-240mm, while special lengths can be made to order. Stand 4440.