Infiana Expands Extrusion Capabilities

As part of a multi-million-euro investment package, Infiana has once again expanded its facilities. Going forward, the award-winning specialty films manufacturer will be producing with a top-of-the-line 9-layer extruder with integrated in-line stretching capability, giving Infiana even more flexibility in manufacturing films of varying thicknesses and widths.

Dr. Herbert Bader, VP Innovation at Infiana: “Much of our current research and development work also focuses in particular on barrier and mechanical properties. This combination plays a central functional role in many of our growth markets. For the very first time, we have the ability to translate these existing development efforts into market-ready, forward-facing and innovative products with unique characteristics, all thanks to this technology.”

More Clout Through New Extruder

From initial planning to the first production run, the process of setting up the new equipment took 17 months. In this timespan, Infiana not only assembled a completely new hall for the extruder, but also created corresponding production infrastructure. “In expanding our production facilities, we are reacting to increased capacity demand and will be capable of manufacturing more complex products with greater efficiency,“ says Stefan Herfurth, Infiana Chief Operating Officer.

New Technology for In-Line Stretching

Beyond being able to extrude up to 9 layers simultaneously, the specialty films manufacturer can now stretch films in-line in a single pass. This prepares Infiana for future industry challenges and allows the company to offer solutions for evolving customer needs.

Successive Improvements in Manufacturing Capability

The 9-layer extruder is just one of a number of investments made in past months. Beyond extrusion, the specialty films manufacturer has also invested in printing and coating technology. Additionally, Infiana has expanded its production facilities with an automatic slitter that uses robotics technology to achieve narrower slitting widths.

Successive Improvements in Manufacturing Capability

Infiana has received numerous commendations for its innovative film and process solutions and technologies, most recently the TOP 100 signet. Beyond personnel expertise and modern production facilities, the biggest factor in this is the 25-strong Infiana Innovation Team. Its application technology and development specialists are on a continuous search for new trends, raw materials, technologies, and suppliers, and maintain an ongoing exchange with research labs and start-ups.