Sue Friedman

Laser digital converting's efficiency and flexibility present compelling competition for conventional diecutting. by Sue Friedman, Editor WITH ALL ITS flashy trappings, laser digital converting technology could have been hyped to the max. The process, which actually vaporizes material in order to accomplish various finishing operations, is instead quietly edging toward mainstream applications. How deep a niche will it ultimately etch? A typical laser digital converting system can include a CO2 laser, power unit, chiller, controller, software, smoke containment system, and web handling system (if not integrated into an existing press or finishing line). Camera-based vision systems may be needed for critical registration requirements. All