RLC Packaging Changes Over Folding Carton Production to Low-Migration Inks at ts Colorpack Plant in Berlin

The introduction of the new inks and coatings was preceded by a series of comprehensive tests conducted by rlc in conjunction with ink suppliers.

Aug 19 2010 --- The rlc packaging group has completely changed over its folding carton production to low-migration and mineral oil-free inks and coatings at its Colorpack plant in Berlin. As highly-specialized supplier of folding cartons for brand-name product manufacturers, rlc primarily produces packaging for the food industry. Colorpack is one of the largest production facilities for folding cartons in Germany's food industry. Since the beginning of August, all systems at the production facility are completely free of residues from previously used inks. With this changeover and the implementation of modern production standards, including HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and PSO (Process Standard Offset), rlc packaging is going beyond legal requirements to take on a leading role in the packaging industry. The packaging manufacturer's customers can now be absolutely sure that their food is optimally protected against impurities from inks.

"We are planning to concentrate even more intensely on food packaging at our Colorpack plant in the future. This makes the transition a logical step for us," explains Stephan Bestehorn, Managing Director, rlc packaging group. "Migration has also become a key issue for our customers." Even before lawmakers pass new regulations, rlc wants to make sure its customers' products are optimally protected. "Especially when it comes to inks. As a packaging manufacturer, we can prevent the migration of contaminants. The recent changeover is our way of meeting this responsibility."

The introduction of the new inks and coatings was preceded by a series of comprehensive tests conducted by rlc in conjunction with ink suppliers. How fast do the inks dry? How do they react in the printing process? What is the overall visual impression? How fast is the printing process with the inks? The rlc staff adjusted the inks to the printing presses and created some 700 new mixtures. "These detailed preparations were necessary," Bestehorn explains. Absolutely reliable colors in the printing process are extremely important for brand manufacturers."

Following the ink changeover, the rlc packaging group is planning to have its Colorpack plant certified by the end of the year to comply with HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points). The plant already produces according to the latest food safety standards. Colorpack is also PSO (Process Standard Offset) certified. This standard defines industrially oriented practices in the production of printed products.