Tekni-Plex invests in narrow web, flexo press

Tekni-Plex has invested approximately $2m (~€1.7m) in a new narrow web, flexographic press to meet printed lidding demands for larger-sized medical devices. The press is located at the company’s Ashland, Massachusetts, facility and is due to be operational in January.

Timm Goodmanson, Vice President, Flexible Division, Tekni-Plex, said: “With increasing emphasis on minimally-invasive procedures, such as laparoscopies, orthopedics, and others which require a longer journey through the vascular system, medical device manufacturers are designing larger devices to accommodate the latest practices. As a result, these new devices also require larger thermoformed trays and lidding to contain them. Tekni-Plex’s investment in a new narrow-web press, which is capable of producing 35-inch length lidding, will handle these demanding applications.”

The press also features a web cleaner for the base material and an inline vision system to ensure that printing meets stringent medical device requirements. The press features 360-degree registration adjustment and controlled ink densities which produce high quality dots in a simple and repeatable fashion. Additionally, the new 17-inch wide press will result in significantly reduced lead times, delivering standard materials in two-to-four weeks. This capability will help medical device manufacturers meet condensed go-to-market timelines.

The four-color press will be used to die-cut coated lidding (DuPont Tyvek and paper roll stocks) manufactured at the company’s Milwaukee and Madison, Wisconsin plants, using proprietary heat seal coating formulations. Additionally, Tekni-Plex’s Ashland facility also provides prepress services, including artwork and printing plates.