SACMI and MOSS develop hybrid machine for simultaneous cap decoration

In the rigid packaging technologies field, the need for caps that can perform as identity messengers and brand enhancers continues to grow. Responding to that need is the Hybrid Decoration Machine, a solution that combines the advantages of the main cap decoration techniques (offset and digital) to produce new results and opportunities.

The Hybrid Decoration Machine stems from MOSS’ experience in offset decoration and SACMI’s digital decoration know-how. The result is the ability to combine the advantages of both solutions and boost the uniqueness of the produced cap, at a competitive cost, whether in small batches or large volumes.

More specifically, in its hybrid configuration this solution allows simultaneous decoration - in offset and digital - within the same production batch. Against a same offset-produced ‘background’ or decoration, manufacturers can create, in parallel, vastly different digital decorations, expanding opportunities and savings.

SACMI and MOSS has developed Hybrid Decoration Machine.

“This solution completes our range of rigid packaging decoration systems”, commented Andrea Fantozzi, CEO of MOSS. “Close collaboration with SACMI completes our decades of experience in the construction of offset and screen printing machines by adding digital skills. With this solution, the goal is to be the leading technological innovators in packaging decoration, a field in which we play a key role in the beverage, food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors in over 100 countries.”

The Hybrid Decoration Machine is also designed to allow 4-color CMYK applications. Within each single batch being processed, the operator can load the system with multiple decorations, all with a simple click.

Moreover, combining the two technologies makes 4-color printing far more economical; firstly, this stems from the ability to use offset for the background and digital for the details and, secondly, from the infinite color combinations that can be created for every single decorated cap (by using, in the hybrid set-up, 4 colors plus a white base in offset and 4+2 colors in digital).

The solution allows simultaneous cap decoration in offset and digital within the same production batch.

To complete the system, guided size changeover ensures faster format changes and greatly simplifies the worker’s tasks. In the hybrid configuration, productivity ranges from 500 to 1200 decorated caps per minute, while the ‘offset only’ configuration can reach speeds of 2,500-5,000.

“We began with the needs of our customers”, added Vezio Bernardi, General Manager of the SACMI Rigid Packaging Technologies BU, “especially their need for a fairly versatile, economical solution that can provide the outstanding cap customization that lies at the core of our business. Hence the forward-thinking partnership with MOSS, a pioneer in the industry. We’ve now combined our skillsets to offer customers the best, most comprehensive solution possible so they can meet all their communication and brand enhancement needs.”

The SACMI-MOSS Hybrid Decoration Machine is available for caps up to 38 mm in diameter. Further advantages include limited energy and compressed air consumption, and compactness; also that this solution is easy to install on existing lines.