Laser Equipment Enhances Packaging Production Efficiency And Quality

The application of laser-based packaging manufacturing varies in speed, cost, operational flexibility, and quality requirements, leading to the development of specialized production solutions. In fact, the application scope of laser technology is so extensive that developers often struggle to choose the right technology for a specific application. This article draws insights from an article written by Coherent Product Line Manager Dr.-Ing. Hansjörg Rohde to guide developers in selecting the correct technology for their specific needs.

Why Choose Laser?

Laser technology is widely used in packaging production because it offers superior results, greater flexibility, and lower costs compared to traditional mechanical methods such as blades and punches. One major advantage is that non-contact laser tools do not wear out over time, eliminating downtime for tool replacement and ensuring highly consistent results over extended periods.

Additionally, in the flexible packaging sector, laser processing allows precise control over scoring depth and micro-perforation sizes—both of which are difficult to achieve with mechanical methods. Unlike traditional tools, laser technology does not exert any force on plastic films that could cause deformation or tearing.

Moreover, laser processing produces exceptionally clean edges. Cutting debris can be problematic as it accumulates on other machine components, potentially reducing efficiency.

Laser technology also offers operational flexibility. Processing parameters can be adjusted via software, making it easy to switch between jobs or personalize packaging instantly without incurring additional tool or setup costs.

Lastly, laser processing is incredibly fast. It can operate at speeds compatible with modern roll-to-roll production lines. For instance, scoring on packaging can now be performed at speeds of up to 600 meters per minute.

Packaging Solutions

To achieve high-efficiency and cost-effective manufacturing solutions, it is crucial to design complete systems tailored to specific needs. Our company, ArgusLaser, provides a range of customizable laser solutions to meet our customers' exact requirements.

For example, our systems allow for both horizontal and vertical scoring and perforation, essential for producing bags and pouches. Additionally, they can create custom-shaped scoring patterns or windowing effects, ideal for resealable lids or easy-tear corners on packaging.

Depending on the application, roll width, and customer requirements, we can equip our machines with multiple laser heads for tailor-made solutions. Our software system, in conjunction with the laser heads, enables free-form perforation and scoring across both machine and cross-web directions. This is achieved by splitting a single laser output into up to four scanners simultaneously, maximizing throughput while minimizing costs. In this setup, each scanner generates the same pattern, with options for mirroring (flipping) specific designs as needed.

In day-to-day operations, longitudinal scoring and perforation along the roll direction are the most common. Typical applications include micro-perforation for ethylene exchange control and scoring for easy-opening packages, with hole diameters typically ranging from 0.1mm to 0.5mm, depending on the material.

We also offer advanced multifunctional solutions capable of integrating almost any cross-web or web-direction processing into a single system. This makes our laser equipment an ideal choice for the packaging industry, where complex manufacturing processes are required, as well as for converters looking to meet diverse customer demands.

As packaging manufacturers seek innovative solutions to stand out, the added value of laser processing has become an increasingly important competitive advantage. Implementing laser technology in a cost-effective manner requires a high-performance and feature-rich solution—and that’s where we come in. Contact us today to explore how our laser solutions can revolutionize your packaging production.