Brandtjen & Kluge Announces New Strategic Alliance at GRAPH EXPO

ST. CROIX FALLS, WI—October 3, 2012—Brandtjen & Kluge and LasX Industries have announced a strategic agreement in which the two companies will co-market an On Demand Laser Cutting and Converting Solution for folding cartons and other folded and glued products. "LasX has been providing sheet fed laser cutting and robot handling systems since 2008," said William Dinauer, CEO of LasX Industries. "We are very pleased to be working with Kluge to provide a near digital solution for the production of folding cartons. This solution aligns perfectly with our vision of using laser converting, robotic, and digital workflow technologies for on-demand personalized packaging."

LasX LaserSharp technology is made possible by a patented process controller. The controller synchronizes each laser and robot on the LaserSharp system independently, running multiple converting and part handling processes at once to achieve the highest production speeds with maximum flexibility. LasX proprietary workflow software allows complete integration with digital or conventional printing presses and enables users to produce folding cartons with variable data and variable shapes cut and etched into the carton. The result is one to one folding cartons with complete personalization and instant order change.

Kluge modular folding and gluing systems are highly flexible and are designed for quick change-over. The Kluge independent bearing-bed drive system is a unique system that is designed for production of folding cartons and other packaging products. The modular construction of the system makes it an excellent solution for the digital workflow.

"The integration of Kluge converting equipment with LasX LaserSharp technology provides a world class solution for the near digital production of folding cartons," said Michael Aumann, CEO, at Brandtjen & Kluge. "Based on our testing of LaserSharp cut and scored folding cartons, we are excited about the possibilities for the digital finishing and converting market. We are confident that we can provide exciting solutions for companies in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and consumer packaging space."

At GRAPH EXPO 2012 the two companies will each be showing video demonstrations of the near digital production process along with golf ball sleeve cartons that were produced in the video. Kluge will be performing live converting demonstrations of a product that was laser cut with LaserSharp technology. See the Kluge exhibit at booth 3427 and the LasX exhibit at booth 2254.

About Brandtjen & Kluge
Adding value since 1919, Brandtjen & Kluge is a fourth generation family owned manufacturer of specialty print finishing equipment. For over 90 years the brand name "Kluge" has represented innovation, productivity and rugged durability to companies worldwide. Headquartered in St. Croix Falls, WI, Brandtjen & Kluge markets equipment through a direct sales force in the United States and Canada and has a well-established network of industry-qualified distributors to provide global coverage.

Source: Brandtjen & Kluge.