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Rotocon launches next-gen Ecoline RDF 330

Rotocon has launched the next-generation Ecoline RDF 330 digital printed label converting and finishing machine. The enhanced version, upgraded following customer feedback, is now globally available through Rotocon, Rotocon Europe and Rotocontrol.

“The Ecoline RDF, initially introduced into South Africa back in 2013, has evolved into a globally supported brand with installations now across Australia, Europe, and North America through Rotocon Europe and Rotocontrol,” said Michael Aengenvoort, CEO of Rotocon. “By establishing close partnerships with our customers, we could incorporate their valuable upgrade recommendations to enhance the machine performance for offline label embellishments and finishing.”

One major upgrade to the system is the addition of an automatic sheer knife slitting system that simplifies the normally time-consuming set-up and tweaking needed when manually adjusting blades across more than three lanes. Now, the operator can enter the label sizes, gap sizes and number of slits, and the system will automatically move the blades into the right positions, with the correct gaps.

The second upgrade is a high-speed matrix stripping system, which ensures no web in between the stripping shaft and matrix, preventing waste breakage and machine downtime. This upgrade was highly requested by customers wanting a more affordable and efficient format. Additionally, a servo-driven motor enables ideal stripping tension, even in the presence of matrix coil diameter variations, which prevents any issues arising by special substrates or die-cutting complex label shapes.

The new machine also features a dual-turret slitter rewinder. It has two spindles that save converters time by allowing them to finish a roll of labels directly on the RDF 330 in one pass. The RDF 330 also includes the Ecoline branded UV LED curing system, which facilitates significantly lower operating costs due to energy savings, fewer consumable parts and lower maintenance costs.

Finally, the machine uses the latest servo motor and software enhancements available. The shape of the machine has been modified by rounding off any sharp edges and incorporating a sleek, modern colour palette of grey and red (rather than white and red, on the previous model).