Vitopel, a Brazil-based biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) solutions manufacturer, has invested in BOBST’s EXPERT K5 2450mm metalliser.
The new equipment, equipped with AluBond and Hawkeye, is expected to commence production in the second half (H2) of this year.
The purchase is in line with Vitopel’s investment in the ongoing modernisation of its manufacturing facilities, which is set to be completed in 2025.
It is also part of the company’s strategy to meet market demands for more sustainable substrates with high barrier properties for increased shelf life.
With this acquisition, Vitopel claimed to become the first in the country to offer AluBond-coated BOPP films.
The AluBond technology significantly improves metal adhesion on commonly used substrates, achieving adhesion values of up to 5nm/15mm.
It also enhances the oxygen and water vapour barrier performance of BOPP films, which is crucial to producing high-barrier metallised monomaterial laminates.
Vitopel CEO Osvaldo Coltri said: “We are reaffirming our strategy of supplying high value-added films by adding the BOBST EXPERT K5 metalliser to our fleet. This spectacular piece of equipment is an expression of Vitopel’s commitment to offering high-quality films with distinctive attributes.
“Vitopel will increase its production by 600 tons per month with this new project. This will not only guarantee agile delivery times for our customers but will also boost exports to Latin America and North America.”
Since its establishment in 1985, Vitopel has been manufacturing and supplying BOPP solutions, now with a significant global presence.
The company operates a network of four production lines at two plants in Brazil, producing metallised, opaque, matte, and clear films.
Vitopel’s BOPP films are said to be thin, which reduces material consumption and supports a monomaterial packaging structure designed for recycling.
Recently, Italy-based corrugated board packaging producer Cartorobica upgraded its printing and cutting capabilities with the installation of an automated production line from BOBST.
