Latest-generation blown film line – Africa’s first

Providing evidence of the shareholders’ ongoing confidence in this ever-burgeoning business, further capex has now been approved – this time around R30-million – for the purchase of a Windmöller & Hölscher Varex II multilayer blown film extrusion line for delivery in May 2015. This will be the first line of its kind in Africa.

Dramatically unveiled at the K2013 show in Düsseldorf, the Varex II is not only aesthetically advanced but also features some powerful technology.

Gary highlights its many technically-advanced features, underlining its impressive ultra-modern engineering that sets new standards in raw material and energy efficiency, resulting in perfect film width tolerances without the need for edge trimming.

Another key feature is the Arctis air ring. An upgrade of the well-known Opticool air ring launched in 2009, this latest version contributes to a substantial increase in output. Its innovative air flow concept leads to maximum cooling efficiency and optimum performance.

The Varex line ordered by CTP flexibles is 1 800mm wide and will produce three-layer films.

Taking up the story is Simon Pollock, who heads up W&H sales in South Africa. ‘Each component of the Varex II has been rethought and redesigned to deliver the highest quality blown film in terms of sustainability, ergonomics and machine handling,’ he says. ‘W&H has set a benchmark for extrusion by achieving a world record output on the Varex II of 1 010kg/h through a 400mm die, with perfect film parameters,’ he adds.

Simon is understandably chuffed at this latest order. As he points out, W&H has enjoyed positive growth in the South African market in recent years, with converters showing faith and confidence in W&H printing and extrusion equipment for their ongoing business development.

And last word goes to Gary Seale: ‘This investment underlines our intention of strengthening our position as a key player in the growing market for barrier films,’ he contends. ‘Our group has a policy of only investing in the very best technology, and this latest purchase is testament to this policy.’

[Ed’s note: We’ll bring you further news of this exciting development early next year. Don’t miss it!]