Packing a punch

Abstract

With quick advances in technology, specialty finishing, which used to be done by specialist companies only, is now in commercial use. Varnishing has already been brought in-house: a high proportion of multi-color sheetfed offset presses being installed now have single or double coaters. The same goes with lamination as machines become more reliable and productive. More exciting though are the developments occurring in foiling, particularly dieless foiling with its ability to cut origination costs significantly. A lacquer has also been developed that overcomes the problems of earlier attempts and ensures a better foil release. Latest developments in specialty finishing and some unusual applications are described.