Electron Beam Systems - Broadbeam Bulletin Newsletter

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Issue No. 25
February 2011

Cast & Cure™ Demonstrated With Electron Beam at PCT

Many of our customers are searching for new ways to enhance their capabilities and deliver added value with their converting processes. PCT has been busy lately demonstrating one such approach. Cast & Cure™ (C²) is a patent pending decorative coating process that integrates "casting" and "curing" techniques to form a consistent high quality surface that can include ultra high gloss, matte and holographic finishes on a variety of substrates. C² is an excellent application for the decorative print market and can be incorporated with anti-counterfeiting features. Cast & Cure™ is also environmentally friendly. By using EB inks and coatings there are no undesirable and harmful VOC's and in addition it can make packages more recyclable by eliminating the laminated metalized films used in traditional holographic processes. The most significant benefit is this is all achieved at a fraction of traditional costs.

PCT is working closely with Breit Technologies, the providers of Cast & Cure, to promote and demonstrate this process. Successful results have been shown on a variety of substrates, including film, paperboard and metal. Any suitable combination of substrate and EB-curable coating is a candidate for the Cast & Cure process.

For more information on Cast & Cure please go to www.breit-tech.com or contact Dan Plasch of Breit Technologies, dplash@breit-tech.com +1-612-270-6863.

To schedule your own demonstration of Cast & Cure at PCT contact Karl Swanson, KESwanson@TeamPCT.com +1-563-285-7411 ext. 4446.

Cast and Cure

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Wayne's World

Keep a Clean Machine

The reliable operation of all EB systems is dependent upon achieving and maintaining very high vacuum levels. A vacuum is required to prevent the formation of ions, which can cause high voltage arcing, loss of grid control and oxidation of the directly heated filaments. This month we want to remind EB users of the importance of cleanliness and careful maintenance practices whenever the vacuum chamber is involved. By approaching tasks such as foil or filament changes with an almost "surgical" mindset you will avoid delays and damages caused by contamination.

PCT's senior EB Technician, Wayne Leonard reminds users to avoid all potential sources of contamination. "Dust, paint fumes, and welding fumes can all cause build-up in the vacuum chamber. It is important to keep the chamber and all internal components covered when performing maintenance." Simple approaches such as covering the open window area with a piece of plastic or cardboard are effective ways to keep the machine clean. Wayne also reminds our customers to consider unexpected sources of contaminants. "The nitrogen line to the EB needs to be filtered because a flow of nitrogen is used to 'purge' the chamber after maintenance."

EB systems need high vacuum levels and high vacuum needs clean surfaces. Attention to these requirements will ensure reliable operation of your EB system.

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PCT Presents at RadTech Europe Metal Coating Conference

PCT is a strong supporter of the evolving use of EB and UV cured coatings on metal substrates. We were once again glad to support the efforts of RadTech Europe at their 2nd Metal Coating Seminar held January 26th and 27th at OCAS in Belgium. Several case studies of commercial applications for UV cured coatings on metal, cans and coil were given by users of the technology. More information from the conference can be found at www.radtech-europe.com.

PCT presented a method to consistently control gloss levels by overlaying a film during the curing process. The talk summarized the results of recent development work conducted on the PCT pilot line. Samples on metal of matte, high gloss, and even holographic effects were shown. More details are available by contacting Steve Lapin, SCLapin@TeamPCT.com +1-563-285-7411 ext. 4429 or Karl Swanson, KESwanson@TeamPCT.com +1-563-285-7411 ext. 4446.

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Upcoming Events

Open House

PCT and our partners from Siemens and Springfield Electric cordially invite you to attend our upcoming Open House. The event is scheduled for Tuesday March 1st from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. and will be held at PCT, 8700 Hillandale Road, Davenport, Iowa. On display will be examples of how PCT is Re-defining Integration. Siemens will be rolling out their new TIA Portal which promises to Re-define Engineering. The range of products and services on display from Springfield Electric will demonstrate how they are Re-defining Electrical Distribution. A featured display will be PCT’s Pilot Line which has been upgraded with a Siemens automation system. RSVP to Tracy Street, TMStreet@TeamPCT.com or +1-563-285-7411 ext. 4433.

TeamPCT

uv.eb West

RadTech is once again holding the uv.eb West event. The two day conference and exhibition will be held March 8 -9 in Santa Clara, California. PCT will be exhibiting and giving a presentation. Special emphasis will be placed on UV and EB applications related to photovoltaics, flexible displays, printed electronics, touchscreens, device storage and consumer products. More information and registration details can be found at www.uvebwest.com. uv.eb West 2011

ICE USA 2011

PCT is looking forward to participating in the inaugural ICE USA exhibition. This international converting exhibition is scheduled for April 6 – 8 in Orlando, Florida. In addition to the trade show, conferences from AIMCAL, CEMA, and TAPPI will be held in the same location. Complimentary exhibit registrations are available by clicking on the show logo below. More details for ICE USA can be found at www.ice-x-usa.com.