Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC), part of BW Converting Solutions, is inviting packaging newcomers and experts alike to two free information-packed open houses at its Packaging Innovation Center in Green Bay, WI, April 23-25. The event will span three days and focus on both digital printing for flexible packaging as well as digital and flexo printing for the folding carton industry. 

The inaugural Power Packs Live event builds upon the success of PCMC’s recently launched  Power Packs educational video series. PCMC’s Packaging Innovation Center serves as a resource for demos, trials and training along with research and development opportunities.

Participants interested in digital printing for flexible packaging can choose from one of two open house events being held April 23 and April 24. Those interested in folding carton printing are invited to attend the April 25 open house. All will be held from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. Participants can choose to attend one or both events.

Digital Printing for Flexible Packaging Open House – April 23, April 24
This event will open with a keynote address by industry consultant and analyst Dr. Sean Smyth, one of the foremost experts in the global digital market.
A series of breakout sessions led by packaging experts will follow, covering topics including: DFE software, led by Sean Hampson and Keith Grimm of Hybrid, and Eric Nelsen of Xitron; Why MemJet?, presented by Jason Thelander of Memjet; Design for Digital, led by PCMC’s Chris Pryor; and a business case/cost model of PCMC’s new ION hybrid packaging press delivered by PCMC’s Mike Branstrom.

Participants will also have an opportunity to see the ION hybrid press live in action. The ION turns traditional analog presses into digital hybrid printing platforms, providing the ability to produce larger digital runs cost competitively, meeting market needs for wider, faster printing with highest quality. It is designed to handle up to 400 feet per minute with web widths of 36, 42 and 52 inches for paper, film and folding carton. The ION is a fully modular system with digital CMYK and flexo print stations that can be custom configured to meet a variety of customer challenges.

Following lunch and networking, a closing panel session moderated by Sean Smyth will feature Jenifer Grace, President of LaCore Printworx, the first customer for ION; Flexible Packaging Association president Alison Keane; and PCMC’s Windell McGill.

“We’re excited to host flexible packaging converters in Green Bay not only to show them a digital press printing at speeds not seen before, but also to learn about the business opportunity for digitally printed flexible packaging,” said ION Launch Manager Windell McGill. “We believe it will be a true learning experience and can’t wait to see everyone in Green Bay.”

Digital and Flexo Folding Carton Open House – April 25
This event will include a flexo supplier showcase where participants will catch up on the latest products from industry suppliers, followed by lunch and networking. Educational sessions will include Sean Smyth sharing his insight into digital trends in folding carton, along with technical and innovation experts, including Dennis Gignac from BW PaperSystems/Zerand, delving into the details of their new innovations in folding carton converting. PCMC’s Rodney Pennings will highlight the latest flexographic printing innovations.

An overview of the Fusion folding carton press will be followed by an up-close press-side demo. The Fusion press boasts energy- and time-saving features like automatic drum cleaning and automatic impression setting to ensure minimal downtime. The Fusion significantly reduces energy requirements by utilizing low-power consumption components, design and operation. In addition, it offers fast changeovers and lower ink usage for competitive operating costs and a quick return on investment.

“We’re excited to share with the industry PCMC’s state-of-the-art printing technologies.  During the event, we’ll have a live demo of our high-production 59 inch wide, 10+2 Color Fusion CI press as well as our short-run digital offering for the folding carton space,” said Rodney Pennings, PCMC Director of Sales – Print. “This unique press with its 2-color downstream outboard allows flexibility for backside print and sustainable coatings. This, coupled with engaging presentations from BW Paper Systems-Zerand, a leader in die cutting, will show the economic benefits to moving your folding carton production from sheet fed to web fed.”