POPULAR HIGH-PERFORMANCE SHRINK SEALER
DEBUTS IN DUAL-HEAD CONFIGURATION

PDC International Corporation, a world leader in high-volume, tamper-evident packaging
and shrink labeling, has introduced the 90-2 Shrink Sealer. The 90-2 is based on PDC's
highly successful 90 Series Shrink Sealer, and was engineered for the largest, most
demanding projects. Dual-head capability means the 90-2 will seal over 400 containers
per minute, with true 24/7, downtime-free performance. Variable in speed, the system
can also run as slowly as 100 cpm per head to synchronize with production.

90-2 Shrink Sealers apply single and multi-layer PVC, PETG, PLA, and OPS bands,
in gauges as thin as 40 micron, (1.5 mil). Compatible diameter ranges are .375 inches to
3.0 inches (10 to 75 mm); height ranges are .625 inches to 8 inches. The PDC 90-2 Shrink
Sealer was designed to be a precise, practical solution for the widest range of containers,
caps configurations and throughput requirements. It is ideally suited for the health and beauty,
OTC pharma, and food and beverage sectors, where uptime levels are most critical.

PDC‘s Automatic Reel Changeover feature plays the central role in the "true 24/7" promise
of the 90-2 Shrink Sealer. By allowing a second reel of film to be staged while operation
continues at normal speed, the traditional downtime for operator intervention is eliminated.
When the current reel is spent, an end-of-reel sensor automatically shuttles the second
head into position and engages the new reel.

Standard features of the 90-2 include a stainless steel frame, NEMA 4 enclosures,
Allen-Bradley touch-screen and PLC, static eliminator, and a robust blade assembly that
does not use unreliable spinning knives. There are sensors for low material and film feed,
and available sensors for imprint and bar code verification. Both vertical and horizontal
perforators may be added.

All tooling offers the substantial advantage of tool-less changeover. This means an
operator can quickly and easily change from one format to another, without tools or fine
machinery adjustments, greatly minimizing downtime. As with all PDC shrink sealing
systems, heat tunnels and complete conveying systems can be supplied.

The 90-2 Shrink Sealer pairs perfectly with PDC’s Smooth Diversion Inspection /
Ejection System, which confirms the location of bands and gently diverts any packages
that are out of specification, without disturbing operation. The AMS feature will stop the
machine after a pre-set number of rejects.

PDC 90-2 Shrink Sealers are available in UL and CE approved versions. As with all
PDC systems, the use of widely available components minimizes maintenance expense
throughout the system’s long service life.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com

SHRINKSEALER BREAKS PRICE BARRIER FOR TAMPER EVIDENCE
WITH ROBUST, MODERATE SPEED BANDER / SLEEVER

Who benefits? 
Producers of health and beauty products, OTC medications, beverages,
salad dressings, also cereal and snack products sold in canisters, supplement
companies and others who want to protect their product from grazing,
tampering and malicious mischief. 

PDC International Corporation, a world leader in the development and manufacturing of
tamper evident labeling systems, has introduced the 50 Series ShrinkSealers.

PDC “50” Series ShrinkSealers fill a need that is common today: the need for a highly
reliable, multi-use shrink sealing system that offers moderate speed performance -
and a moderate price. 50 Series ShrinkSealers apply tamper evident banding and
shrink sleeve labeling at up to 130 cpm, continuously.

These PDC ShrinkSealers are engineered to run thin film (1.5 to 2 mils, 40 to 50 micron)
banding materials, and are compatible with all petroleum-based and sustainable films,
including PVC, PET, PETG, OPS and PLA films. Modules for both vertical and horizontal
perforations are available. 50 Series ShrinkSealers can apply tamper evident banding or
shrink sleeves, including full-height body sleeves. Material diameters can range from
.375 to 3" (10-75 mm) and heights from .625 to 7" (15 to 180 mm). Like all PDC machinery,
these robust labeling systems are engineered for 24/7 operation.

Despite their moderate price point, 50 Series ShrinkSealers have many important features
as standard. Included is a stainless steel frame, upstream photo-eyes, a "material-out"
sensor, and an Allen Bradley touch screen interface. Changing from one product to the
next is fast and ergonomic, thanks to PDC’s exclusive "tool-less" changeover feature.

Companies who want to customize their system can specify a broad range of secondary
sensors and package enhancements. Sensors include fallen bottle, splice detection,
film feed jam, ejection verification, and others. Package enhancers include tear tab blades,
and slit tab blades. Downstream photo eyes, and bar code verification can also be part
of the system's capabilities.

Like all PDC packaging systems, the 50 Series was made in the USA, and uses standard,
widely available components. It is ideally suited for manufacturers and job shop packers
who want cost-effective equipment for applying plain or promotional seals with high
reliability and consistency.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com

TRIPLE ZONE STEAM TUNNEL OFFERS LEAN, EFFICIENT
STAND-ALONE PERFORMANCE

Who benefits? 
Food and beverage companies; firms that need an economical steam tunnel
to run heat shrinkable sleeve labels, full body labels, and tamper evident bands. 

Also, contract packers, testing laboratories and packaging development companies
who want a flexible tunnel that allows maximum control over all process parameters. 

Pack Expo 2010.  PDC International Corporation announces the introduction and first
showing of its KSA-70-712 Triple Zone Steam Tunnel.

The new KSA-70-712 is a high quality steam tunnel that incorporates many of the
engineering features which have distinguished PDC's larger capacity tunnels and labeling
systems.  It is ideal for applications that demand precise label registration and shape
conformance.  It is also an excellent option for packages involving contents that are
flammable or under pressure.

The KSA-70-712 is a compact, 70" long system that precisely focuses steam onto
specific points of the shrink-sleeved packages.  The tunnel has symmetrical steam
distribution tubes on each side, and each pair of tubes is externally adjustable for steam
volume, flow and rotary nozzle position.  Adjustments can be made "in real time," without
wasting time - and energy - waiting for the tunnel to cool down.

A thermostatically controlled steam chamber, available as an option, generates the most
energy-efficient steam system possible. Unlike straight pressure systems, which waste
energy by pumping large volumes of steam into the tunnel without electronic regulation,
PDC's unique control system uses only the steam required to maintain chamber
temperatures and provide optimal shrink quality.   

Opening dimensions for the KSA-70 are 12" high X 7" wide.  The KSA-70-712 provides
precise label registration, distortion-free graphics, and exceptional conformance to the
container shape.  The system virtually eliminates the risk of container distortion.  PVC,
PETG, OPS and PLA films, in gauges as thin as 40 microns, are all compatible. 

The KSA-70 can process up to 200 cpm, depending on container size and shape. 
Containers can be virtually any geometry, including round, oval and square, and can
be filled or empty.  Where bottles are labeled empty, a heated shroud is available to
prevent condensate from dripping into empty containers. Other optional features
include an electronic temperature regulator, a powered steam venting manifold with
dampers, and a condensate diverter package. 

Several levels of steam filtering provide up to culinary grade steam, while also
removing impurities.  PDC can also provide a range of steam boilers optimally
sized to customer requirements. 

The KSA-70 steam tunnel is an excellent choice for end-use packagers.  It is ideal
as a stand-alone system, or as a supplemental "finishing zone" for a dual-zone tunnel. 
It is also highly efficient as a pre or post-shrink module.  The KSA-70 is equally
well-suited to contract packers who need a highly reliable and very economical
steam shrink tunnel.  

Like all PDC steam tunnels and shrink labeling systems, the KSA-70 is inexpensive
to maintain throughout its long service life.  Made in the USA using off-the-shelf
components, it features stainless dual wall construction.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com

R-250 EVOLUTION SHRINKLABELER ACCOMMODATES WIDEST RANGE
OF CONTAINER SHAPES, SIZES, LINE SPEEDS, LABEL MATERIALS

Who benefits? 
Contract packers, and food, beverage and vitamin/ supplement companies
who need a robust and versatile system for shrinksleeve labeling,
tamper evident sleeving and multipacking. 

Pack Expo 2010.  PDC International Corporation announces the introduction and first
showing of the "next generation" of its Evolution Series Shrinklabelers. The R-250 Evolution
labeler was developed by R&D teams from PDC's US and French facilities.

The R-250 Evolution was engineered for continuous operation, and is primarily mechanical
in design.  For packaging operations that run 24/7, this has proved to provide a substantial
advantage over systems that use vacuum or pneumatic components, which often require
maintenance attention.  The use of a patented PDC cutting solution that lasts months
(rather than days), as an alternative to the fragile spinning knives found on competitor
systems, also helps users of the R-250 maximize their uptime and productivity.  
The R-250 uses an Allen-Bradley CompactLogix PLC, Touch Screen and Servos.

R-250 is distinctive in that it can apply both full sleeve shrink labels and tamper evident
sleeves at speeds from 50 to 250 cpm.  With a change of tooling the system also adapts
easily to multi-packing.  Containers can be filled or empty, and virtually any size or shape. 
PVC, PETG, OPS and PLA labels, in gauges as thin as 40 micron are all compatible. 
The R-250 maintains precise graphic orientation for all package geometries.  

The R-250 Evolution is a heavy-duty packaging solution engineered for greatest flexibility
of use.  In addition to its many standard features, systems can be built with optional
modules for vertical and horizontal perforations (important for consumer tamper evidence),
date coding, and bar code verification.  The standard sensor and verification package
(which includes material-out and film feed jam sensors, and upstream photo-eyes)
can be enhanced to identify jams downstream, fallen bottles, low air pressure and
other anomalies, and provide detailed machine status indication. 

Two important options designed specifically for continuous production environments
are a zero-downtime, splice-on-the-fly accumulator that allows roll changes without
stopping production, and a second unwind reel.   A stainless steel construction package
is available for wet environments.  An articulating splice table for quick and precise roll
splicing, conveyors and shrink tunnels can also be supplied as part of the R-250 package.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com
Informaciones de nuestros equipmentos en español

PDC SPRING 2010 TECHNICAL CONFERENCE

PDC continued its 15-year tradition of technical and R&D conferences in
March, 2010 with a two-day meeting at its US manufacturing and engineering
facility.  Including engineers and a cross section of disciplines within the company,
these conferences are held alternately in Norwalk, Connecticut and at PDC
Europe in Montdidier, France.

Primarily intended to focus on specific R&D projects and new system launches,
the conferences also facilitate cross-Atlantic knowledge transfer regarding
market trends, product successes and best practices.  This event focused on
the refinement of the very successful recent introduction of the PDC R-200
Evolution Shrink Labeler.  Occupying an important niche in both speed capability
and price point, the R-200 has been well received, delivering very high value to
PDC’s customers. 

The Spring 2010 Technical Conference allowed the engineering, technical and sales
staff to review machine builds to date in great detail, and to select key assemblies for
refinement and added features, all with the goal of keeping the sell price unchanged. 
PDC will deliver even more performance, improved user-friendliness and even more
value in the next generation of R-200 Evolution Shrink labeler.

NEW VIDEOS SHOW THE OPERATION OF PDC SYSTEMS

• 50 Series shrink sleeve labeler
• 60 Series shrink sleeve labeler
• R Series shrink labelers
• F Series neck banding equipment

HOT AIR SHRINK TUNNEL DELIVERS "STEAM" PERFORMANCE,
EXCEPTIONAL CONTROL, ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Who benefits? 
Food and beverage processors; blowmolders, contract packagers,
powder producers or pharmaceutical applications demanding high sleeve
shrink quality; and other products where steam is not usable – or available. 

Norwalk, CT.  PDC International Corp., a manufacturer of some of the industry’s
most popular shrink tunnels, has introduced the “Ambiance” Hot Air™ Shrink Tunnels.
These dry-heat tunnels were engineered and field-tested in conjunction with PDC Europe,
in Montdidier, France, with successful installations throughout Europe and the Americas.   
Based on twenty years of heat tunnel experience, they are ideal for shrink sleeve
labels and multi-packs.

PDC Ambiance shrink tunnels use a combination of three dry heat technologies:
re-circulating hot air, blown hot air and PDC’s proprietary “SPAF” system, which injects
cool air into the sleeve, controlling the areas of greatest shrink.  Ambiance produces highly
consistent “steam-like” results where the use of steam is impractical or unavailable. 

Ambiance provides perfect control of the sleeve temperature, from room temperature
to shrink temperature.  Highly efficient and low in wattage, Ambiance only warms
re-circulated air when required, resulting in large energy savings.  Shrink temperatures
and heat application are precisely controlled, enabling the sleeve to conform perfectly
to the container. 

Sixteen directed nozzles are arranged in a precise, “ascend” profile for greatest control. 
Heating elements are electronically regulated from 3kW to 18 kW, custom to the application. 
Tunnel temperatures are self-monitoring, and adjust continually to compensate for the
“thermal loads” of incoming product and prevent container distortion.  This is particularly
important with full and chilled containers.  

Ambiance tunnels provide exceptional flexibility performing over a wide temperature
range, and are compatible with all major films, including PVC, PET, OPS, PLA and
OPP, in gauges as thin as 40 microns.  Settings are easy to implement and repeat,
for quick and precise changeovers.  Systems are available in painted steel construction
and all have robust insulation.  Double skin on the doors and exterior walls provides
a cool surface and insures operator safety. 

Optional equipment includes conveyor with adjustable speed motor, and a powered
tunnel stand that raises and lowers easily.

Each Ambiance tunnel can shrink up to 200 containers per minute, depending upon
the container configuration.  They are an excellent alternative to steam for primary
shrink sleeving.  The tunnels accommodate products up to 5.5” in diameter and
12.5” in height.

PDC International also manufactures a full line of shrink sleeve applicators for
shrink labeling and tamper evident banding applications, as well as a full line of
dry heat and steam shrink tunnels.

TAMPER-EVIDENT SHRINKBANDER FOR
FOOD AND DAIRY TUBS IS FLEXIBLE, COMPACT

Norwalk, CT.  PDC International Corporation, a developer and manufacturer of
tamper-evident packaging and labeling machinery, has introduced the F-160
Evolution Shrinkbander, a flexible system for applying shrinkbands around the
lids of tapered and straight-wall tubs.  Fully mechanical, these systems do not
use vacuum, pneumatics or spinning knives.

Based on refinement of PDC’s successful existing patents, the F-160 Shrinkbander
uses dual servos for product handling and sleeve feeding.  Compact components
create a small machine footprint; the fully enclosed, stainless steel version of the
system is ideally suited to easy wash-down.

F-160 shrinkbanders apply tamper evident bands 1 to 2.3 inches (25 to 60 mm)
in height, and 2.5 to 6.75 inches (63 to 172 mm) in diameter to tubs and containers
used for dairy spreads, ice cream, oatmeal, prepackaged delicatessen foods,
cultured products, yogurt and dessert toppings. 

F-Series shrinkbanders are manufactured in three standard models with line speeds
ranging from 30 to 400 cpm, depending on container dimensions.  Systems have a
touch screen interface, static eliminator, and low material sensor.Other standard
features include full safety enclosure, heavy-duty mechanical construction,
Mitsubishi PLC control and servos, tool-less changeover, keyed run/jog switch
and upstream photo-eyes.  Systems also have motorized material unwind,
and material-out sensors.            

F-160 shrinkbanders can be customized with additional sensors, solid stainless
steel construction, Allen-Bradley PLCs and Touch Screens, power transformers
and motorized height adjustment.

PDC machines are compatible with petroleum-based and sustainable films,
including PVC, PET, PETG, OPS and PLA films in gauges as thin as 40 micron,
(1.5 mil) depending on throughput rate and cap configuration.

PDC F-Series shrinkbanders are built to UL standards.  As with all PDC systems,
they use off-the-shelf components to minimize operational costs and downtime
throughout the system’s long service life.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

STEAM TUNNEL WITH INTEGRATED STEAM GENERATOR
IS A UNIQUE AND COMPLETE "STAND ALONE" SYSTEM

Who benefits?
Contract packers, blowmolders, and food and beverage companies
who need an economical steam shrink tunnel for heat-shrinkable sleeve labels,
but who do not have in-plant steam.

Norwalk, CT.  PDC International Corporation, developer-manufacturer of steam,
infrared and convection shrink tunnels, has expanded its product family with the
addition of the KST 55 steam tunnel with Integrated Steam Generator.    

Most notable:  The new PDC KST 55 is a high quality steam tunnel that incorporates
many of the engineering features (such as proprietary nozzle positioning technology
and dual-wall stainless steel construction) which have distinguished its larger capacity
tunnels and labeling systems.  Mounted on the stainless tunnel frame is a compact steam
generator fully plumbed for production, eliminating the need for external steam sources.

The KST 55 is a single zone system that precisely focuses the application of heat. 
This minimizes energy use, optimizes container appearance, and minimizes the risk
of container distortion.  There are five rows of steam distribution tubes on each side,
and each is externally adjustable for steam volume. 

With the optional Electronic Regulator, tunnel temperatures are self-monitoring and
adjust continuously to compensate for the “thermal loads” of incoming product. 
This is particularly important with full and cold containers.   

The KST 55 is a moderate speed tunnel, operating up to 100 cpm.  It can be used
without an electronic regulator for highest-flexibility, manual control.  Containers can
be filled or empty, and virtually any geometry, including round, oval and square packages. 
PVC, PETG, OPS and PLA films, in gauges as thin as 40 micron, are compatible.

For higher speeds, PDC also offers the KST 80, a Dual Zone 80” Steam Tunnel
which can also be built with an integrated steam generator.

Optional equipment includes conveyor, cantilevered tunnel stand for easy raising
and lowering, a powered steam venting manifold with dampers, and condensate
diverter package.  Steam filtering down to .5 micron provides culinary grade steam
while removing impurities.   

The KST steam tunnel with integrated steam generator is an excellent alternative
for end-user packagers and contract packers who want a highly reliable and very
economical steam shrink tunnel.  It is ideal as a stand-alone system, or as a
supplemental “third zone” for a dual-zone tunnel.  It is also a highly efficient as
a pre or post-shrink module.  Opening dimensions for the KST 55 are 4-12” in
height and 5 to 7” in width, depending upon the application.

Like all steam tunnels, and shrink labeling systems provided by PDC, the KST 55
is manufactured using many readily-available off-the-shelf components.  This assures
that the system will be easy and inexpensive to maintain throughout its long service life.

PDC INTRODUCES TAMPER EVIDENT SHRINK SLEEVER / LABELER
THAT DOES THE WORK OF MULTIPLE SYSTEMS

PDC International Corp., a world leader in tamper evident technology, has introduced
a shrink sleeve and labeling system for manufacturers doing continuous production,
and contract sleevers who need equipment with the broadest range of capability.

The new 60 Series Evolution Shrinksealer applies both full-height bodysleeves
and tamper evident banding.   It is based on refinements in PDC’s successful
existing patents for field-proven shrink sealers.  Among its distinctive features is
the use of two servos for product handling and sleeve registration.  The advantage
of this is exceptional system flexibility, and low capital expense. 

The 60 Series are dual-use, mid-speed packaging systems.  Used for Shrink sleeve
labeling, they apply full height bodysleeve labels with primary graphics, and are
compatible with jars, bottles and products of all types.  The sleeve label can be designed
to extend up over the cap, with a horizontal perforation for consumer tamper evidence. 

Used for Tamper Evident Banding, the 60 Series applies shrink sleeves as neck bands
around the upper portion of a container and its closure, or as full height safety seals. 
The full body, clear sleeves protect the primary label and container, and cover the closure. 
They are popularly used for vitamins and similar products.   

60 Series machines operate at 50 to 170 cpm (containers per minute) with maximum
speeds dependent on the package dimensions.  Sleeve diameter range is .375 to 3.25
inches (10 - 83 mm).  Sleeve height range is .625 to 8 inches (15 -200 mm). 

PDC machines are compatible with all petroleum-based and sustainable films,
including PVC, PET, PETG, OPS and PLA films. 

Standard features of the 60 Series Evolution include full safety enclosure,
heavy-duty construction, Mitsubishi PLC control and servos, keyed run/jog switch
and upstream photo-eyes.  Systems also have motorized material unwind, and
material-out sensors.  For customers who use the 60 Series for both shrink
sleeve labeling and banding, changing between these formats is simple and quick,
thanks to PDC’s Tool-less change-over.

60 Series systems can be customized with additional sensors (film applicators,
splice detection, imprint verification, etc.) as well as Allen-Bradley PLCs and
Touch Screens, power transformers and motorized height adjustment.

Like all PDC packaging systems, the 60 Series was designed using off-the-shelf,
readily available components, assuring that both uptime, and the total cost of
ownership, remain low throughout the system’s long service life.  Systems
incorporate field-proven controls technology, and can be UL approved.  

Demonstrations and prototypes can be arranged at PDC headquarters,
which features extensive R&D capabilities and the ability to run a broad range
of films and production speeds.

PDC President Neal Konstantin was recently interviewed by Packaging World
magazine regarding the new Evolution Model 60 tamper-evident shrinksealer and shrink
sleeve labeler. This flexible machine is ideal for manufacturers doing continuous production,
and for contract packagers who need equipment with a broad range of capabilities.
SEE THE VIDEO

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

NEW MULTIPACKING TECHNOLOGY HAS
3 MAJOR CAPABILITIES, FLEXIBILITY

Who Benefits?

• Producers of foods, OTC pharmaceuticals, health and beauty aids,
  and household products
• Manufacturers who supply club stores
• Marketers who want to combine different products for promotions
• Producers who want to bring multipacking operations back in-house,
  saving transportation and handling costs on low margin
  club store business

August 12, 2009. PDC International Corporation, a leading manufacturer of
tamper-evident packaging and shrink sleeve labeling machinery for consumer
and other products, has introduced the R-300 Multipacking System. 

The R-300 is versatile in that it configures in three distinct and
important ways:  as a multipacker, as a shrink labeler, and as a
combination multipacker / shrinklabeler for individual products. 

Systems can be set up for shrink label projects, and when twin packs are needed,
product can be recirculated, twin packed through the machine and shrink tunnel and
packed off. Systems can be set up off-line, for multipacking on an “as needed” basis.

PDC Multipackers accommodate rigid packages, cartons, bottles, cans and
special shapes. Systems engineered for pharmaceutical products adapt easily to
boxes, bottles and blister-packs. These systems are equally suitable when packages
are identical, and when they are different in type and size, such as when introductory
offers are packaged with standard product.    

Multipacking using the R-300 produces high product visibility, with the shrink sleeve
a powerful tool for marketing the products as an appealing and convenient unit.  
Printed sleeves also eliminate the need to orient the product within the pack and
cover individual bar codes, avoiding incorrect scanning.

For difficult applications the R-300 is integrated with special product handling that
groups and orients the products in dual counter-rotating timing screws, then hands
them off to servo-controlled gripper belts. This allows precise product handling and
best-possible presentation of the packages for sleeving.

Optional features include modules for imparting precise vertical and horizontal
perforation, cutoff registration, stainless steel construction and componentry,
and splice-on-the-fly accumulators. Auxiliary equipment that can be supplied with
the R-300 includes conveyors, shrink tunnels and integral inspection modules.

R-300 systems have the substantial advantage of running thinner gauge material,
1.5 to 2 mils (40 to 50 micron) at high speeds, over extended periods. PETG, PVC,
OPS and PLA films (including freezer grades) are all well-suited for R-300 application.  

Operators can switch efficiently between jobs, thanks to PDC’s proprietary
tool-less changeover.  Like all PDC equipment, the R-300 Series uses off-the-shelf
components to minimize the costs of maintenance over time.  Systems are fully
enclosed, with static eliminators, and available zero-access guarding.   

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

HIGH-SPEED PERFORATION TECHNOLOGY
ENHANCES PRODUCT INTEGRITY, SHELF LIFE

Who Benefits?

Manufacturers of foods, condiments, beverages and vitamin supplements;
also contract packers who serve the hospitality industry . . .  or who want to
expand their business with a unique, retrofit system that instantly delivers
a distinct, competitive advantage

July 7, 2009. Norwalk, CT.  PDC International Corporation, a global manufacturer
of equipment and systems for applying heat shrinkable tamper-evident neck bands
and labels, has announced commercialization of a unique, proprietary technology for
precision venting the junction of bottle-necks and caps on full range of containers,
including hospitality-sizes such as those used for room service and in mini-bars,
as well as on gift packs and sample sizes.  The venting allows evaporation of
moisture and prevents cap corrosion and potential of contamination by organic growth.

The technology was originally developed for a project with H.J. Heinz (Pittsburgh, PA)
and is particularly important for products that have long shelf lives, those that are shipped
to humid destinations, and those slated for overseas shipment or extended storage. 

The new PDC perforation system is an easy retrofit to existing packaging equipment,
including PDC’s tamper-evident neck banding machinery, shrink sleeve labelers and
multi-packers.  It operates at line speeds up to 400 bpm with sleeve diameter capacity
between 1.5” and 7”.  A broad range of food and beverage products are excellent
candidates for the system that works with PVC, PETG, OPS and PLA films. 
Like all PDC packaging systems, the PDC perforation module was designed
using off-the-shelf, readily available components. 

The H. J. Heinz Company is one of the world’s leading producers of Ketchup and
Sauces; Meals and Snacks; and Infant/Nutrition products.  The Company has a
world-class portfolio of powerful brands, with 150 brands holding number-one and
number-two positions across five continents and in more than 50 countries.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

INTEGRATED CUSTOMER SERVICE AND OPTIMIZED WORKFLOW
ARE DRIVERS FOR NEW PDC HEADQUARTERS

New Facility Opening Coincided with 40th Anniversary
and PMMI Regional Meeting.

Summer, 2008.  “This expansion," says PDC President Neal Konstantin,
“was our chance to take a fresh, ‘clean-slate’ approach to our facility
and our future. Reorganizing our operation positions PDC for the global
marketplace in which we now compete.”

An inaugural reception for customers, vendor partners and PDC Europe took
place June 14. The newly expanded headquarters complex opened just prior to
the northeast region PMMI (Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute)
meeting that PDC hosted on June 18.

Among the highlights:

• Engineering and administrative space have been doubled.

• The primary manufacturing floor has been re-engineered using advanced
  “lean” and value stream mapping techniques.

• Sheet metal fabrication and machining operations, formerly in rented,
  adjunct facilities, have been brought in-house for greatly enhanced work flow,
  and tighter cost control.

• Cellular manufacturing has been introduced as a primary strategy for
  optimizing precision in machinery and subassemblies, improving workflow,
  eliminating waste and reducing delivery times.

• Customer service, a conerstone of PDC’s reputation, has been centralized to
  every department within the company. Fully integrating customer service into
  operations strengthens our ability to serve customers and gives us a
  significant competitive advantage.

• Aftermarket service and parts departments have been integrated with engineering
  and process planning for best-possible customer responsiveness and execution.

• New offices for sales and finance were designed to make them customer-friendly,
  and an integral part of our Total Engineered Solutions approach.

• New equipment, including a large state-of-the-art steam boiler similar to those
  customers use, will serve 3 important goals: support steam tunnel R&D, enhance
  our contract sleeving capabilities, and provide extended testing capacity for
  customer systems.

• Every decision, from architecture and materials to HVAC and lighting has been
  made with the goal of sustainability and minimization of total carbon footprint.

“Our investment in this facility,” says Konstantin, “reflects our faith in PDC’s technologies,
in our exceptional team of professionals, and in the strength of our customer base.
We believe it is what we’ll need to compete successfully on our increasingly global stage,
well into this century.”

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

f'REAL FOODS CHOSE THE PDC R-300 CUP LABELER
FOR PRECISION LABELING OF TAPERED CUP PRODUCTS

May 2, 2008.  R Series Shrinklabelers have the unique capability to run thin gauge
banding materials – 1.5 to 2 mils (40 to 50 micron) and are ideal for foods and beverages.
Designed to apply PVC and PETG sleeves, the R-300 provides precise label application
and extremely reliable performance for extended periods.

F’REAL Foods (Orinda, CA) switched from preprinted cups to shrink sleeves for its
10-oz cups of frozen dairy products - milkshakes, cappuccinos and smoothies – as a way
to differentiate their products using high-resolution graphics, gravure printed in nine colors.

What earned PDC the project, according to f'REAL Director of Operations Jens Voges,
was the distinctive ability of the R Series to accommodate freezer-grade PVC film.
(The tapered cups must withstand the -20oF environment of an ice cream freezer.)

F’REAL also preferred a domestic equipment supplier with which they could work closely
to accommodate the container and achieve the desired throughput rate. Cups are sleeved
upside down at about 250 cpm.

The format has not only been successful, but “groundbreaking,” according to Voges.
F’REAL is the only full-body, printed shrink sleeve on a frozen product. Its silver metal
cup look has strong consumer appeal. And, according to Voges, the sleeves make the
cups more rigid, and therefore easier to handle during production.

In addition to the Model R300 sleeve labeler, PDC also supplied two KST 80”
steam tunnels for the project.

F’REAL products are sold in more than 3,000 retail locations.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

SMALL STEAM TUNNEL OFFERS LEAN,
EFFICIENT STAND-ALONE PERFORMANCE . . .
ALSO IDEAL AS A "3rd ZONE" FOR A DUAL-ZONE SYSTEM

Who benefits?  Contract packers, food and beverage companies; firms that need a very
economical steam tunnel to run heat shrinkable sleeve labels and tamper evident bands. 

Also, testing laboratories and packaging development companies who want a
flexible tunnel that allows manual control over all process parameters.

April 14, 2008.  PDC International Corporation has expanded its product family with the
addition of a single-zone, manually-operated shrink tunnel.    

Most notable:  The new single-zone tunnel  is a high quality steam tunnel that incorporates
many of the engineering features (such as proprietary nozzle positioning technology and
dual-wall stainless steel construction) which have distinguished PDC’s larger capacity
tunnels and labeling systems.  

The a single zone system precisely focuses the application of heat.  This minimizes
energy use, optimizes container appearance, and minimizes the risk of container distortion. 
There are five rows of steam distribution tubes on each side and each is externally
adjustable for steam volume. 

With its optional Electronic Regulator, tunnel temperatures are self-monitoring, and adjust
continuously to compensate for the “thermal loads” of incoming product.  This is particularly
important with full and cold containers.   

The single-zone shrink tunnel is a moderate speed system, operating up to 100 cpm. 
It can be used without an electronic regulator for highest-flexibility, manual control. 
Containers can be filled or empty, and virtually any geometry, including round, oval
and square packages.  PVC, PETG, OPS and PLA films, in gauges a thin as 40 micron,
are compatible.

Optional equipment includes cantilevered tunnel stand for easy raising and lowering,
a powered steam venting manifold with dampers, and condensate diverter package. 
Steam filtering down to .5 micron provides culinary grade steam while removing impurities.   

The single-zone steam tunnel is an excellent alternative for end-user packagers and
contract packers who want a highly reliable, and very economical shrink tunnel.  It is
ideal as a stand-alone system, or as a supplemental “third zone” for a dual-zone tunnel. 
It is also a highly efficient as a pre or post-shrink module.  Opening dimensions for the
are 4-12” in height and 5 to 7” in width, depending upon the application.

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

Downtime is something that can never be recovered.    
And increasingly, operators of food, beverage, pharmaceutical and “health niche”
product lines want packaging systems that perform free of shut-down.

Now, PDC has introduced a high-speed Shrinksealer with true “24/7” capability to
meet this demand.  Named the Series 90, it was engineered for highest OEE* rankings
in all 3 categories: uptime, performance, and quality of product produced.

March 18, 2008.  PDC International Corporation has introduced the 90 Series Shrinksealer,
an advanced new in-line applicator that combines high speeds (up to 500 containers per minute)
with true “zero shutdown” performance.   Systems will run as slowly as 200 cpm to synchronize
with slow-downs on processing systems.

90 Series Shrinksealers apply bands .375 inches to 3.0 inches (10 to 75 mm) diameter and
.625 inches to 8 inches high, making them suitable for a broad range of products. Monolayer
and multilayer PVC, PETG, PLA, and OPS films, in gauges as thin as 40 micron, (1.5 mil)
are compatible, depending on throughput rate and cap configuration.   

PDC ‘s Reel Changeover feature makes this critical function automatic, eliminating downtime
for operator action, and allowing a second reel of material to be loaded while operation
progresses at normal speed.  A detection feature senses when the initial reel is spent
and automatically engages the new reel. 

Standard features of the 90 Series include stainless steel frame and covers,
NEMA 4 enclosures, Allen-Bradley PLC with touch-screen interface, and static eliminator. 
Systems are supplied with complete tooling. 

There are sensors for low material and film feed irregularity, and available sensors for
imprint and bar code verification.   As with all PDC shrink sealing systems, conveyors
and heat tunnels can be provided as part of the package. 

The 90 Series interfaces easily with PDC’s Smooth Diversion Inspection / Ejection
System, which confirms the location of bands and gently diverts any imperfect packages
without disrupting operation.   

PDC 90 Series Shrinksealers are UL and CE approved.  As with all PDC systems,
the use of readily available components minimizes operation costs and difficulties
throughout the system’s long service life.

* OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) is a common manufacturing metric for measuring
the overall production efficiency of a machine (or of a production line or cell.)

For more information, contact sales@pdc-corp.com.

NEWS ARCHIVES: 2006-2007