NO FLASH IN THE PAN (Laser digital converting presents compe

Tracing parameters and benefits

Laser digital converting harbors a notable array of benefits. From a flexibility standpoint, any programmed shape can be processed; lasers can cut in any direction. Die shapes can be changed on the fly, without tooling, offering potential for complete personalization of a run of packages or labels. Accuracy, too, is a digital system strong point. Laser converting is said to routinely achieve 3 mil tolerances, and can even compensate for inaccuracies inherent in the printing and finishing process. "Materials may stretch," notes Chow, "and lasers can adjust to this. A die cannot."