A Game Changer for Breathable Laminates
Swiss company Cavitec, a leading manufacturer of high-end coating and laminating machinery, is showcasing the redesigned Caviscreen at Techtextil Frankfurt 2024. This innovative machine promises exceptional results for breathable laminates in sportswear, rainwear, and protective clothing, all while offering significant cost savings.
Caviscreen: Designed for Precision and Performance
Caviscreen is a hot melt coating and laminating unit specifically developed for breathable fabrics. The key feature of the redesigned model is its brand-new method for applying adhesive – a process that ensures exceptional uniformity and precision. This system utilises PUR (polyurethane reactive) adhesive, known for its strong bonding capabilities and versatility.
The Secret Lies on the Screen
Caviscreen’s magic lies in its hot melt screen printing technology. Similar to traditional textile printing, a PUR adhesive is transferred onto the fabric using a rotary screen. The adhesive is fed from a heated drum melter and travels through a hose to a distribution system positioned behind a doctor’s blade within the screen. The doctor’s blade then presses the adhesive through the screen’s holes, creating a precise pattern on the fabric.
The beauty of this system lies in its ability to control the amount of adhesive used. By using different screen patterns (mesh or irregular) and varying screen thicknesses, manufacturers can achieve the desired coating weight and adhesive coverage. Additionally, the adhesive distribution system can be adjusted automatically to any working width, eliminating the need for mechanical changes.
Benefits for Manufacturers and End Users
Cavitec’s innovative screen coating system offers a distinct advantage over traditional methods. By applying the adhesive directly to the fabric’s surface, it eliminates glue build-up between coated dots. This translates to superior breathability and a softer feel in the final product. Furthermore, the system achieves exceptional bonding strength while using less adhesive compared to other techniques.
Manufacturers gain precise control over breathability, fabric softness, and bond strength by adjusting the coating weight and coverage. Cavitec offers a wide range of screens to cater to various fabric requirements. Switching between screens is a breeze – a simple bayonet fitting allows for quick and easy removal, eliminating the need to handle hot oil or liquids.
The system’s compatibility with PUR adhesives, usable at temperatures up to 140°C, guarantees not only superior performance but also long-lasting durability.
Cost Savings: A Major Advantage
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Caviscreen is its cost-effectiveness. Screens are priced at a fraction (only 10%) of the cost of traditional gravure rollers, offering significant savings for manufacturers.
Cavitec at Techtextil Frankfurt: Unveiling the Future
Techtextil Frankfurt provides the perfect platform for Cavitec to showcase Caviscreen and its other innovative solutions. As a world leader in prepreg systems for composite products, Cavitec caters to various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and wind power. Visitors to booth D85 in hall 12 (April 23-26) can connect with Cavitec experts and learn more about their cutting-edge technologies.