In a major leap forward for high-volume film production, Austrian machinery specialist SML has introduced its latest innovation: the W1300 turret winder, a powerhouse of efficiency, flexibility, and precision designed to handle jumbo rolls up to a mechanical diameter of 1,500 mm.
Engineered for the winding of CPP, CPE, mono-oriented, and barrier films, the W1300 is tailored to meet the rising demand for larger roll formats in industrial applications. With winding speeds reaching 450 m/min and capable of handling film widths from 2,400 mm to 3,900 mm, the W1300 stands out as a formidable addition to any cast film line.
Bigger Rolls, Bigger Efficiency Gains
One of the standout advantages of the W1300 is its ability to drastically extend production runtimes. Compared to a standard 1,200 mm roll, which typically holds 45,000 meters of 25 µm-thick cast film, a 1,500 mm jumbo roll can contain a staggering 70,000 running meters an impressive 50% increase. This means fewer roll changes, less downtime, and a significant boost in efficiency for downstream operations like printing, laminating, or metallising.
“This winder was designed with large-scale performance in mind,” said Alexander Bruckmüller, Product Manager at SML. “It combines smart engineering and robust construction to provide the flexibility and durability needed for premium-quality film production.”
Precision Meets Versatility
Adaptability is another hallmark of the W1300. The winder can operate in either contact mode or gap mode, allowing users to fine-tune performance based on the specific film type. A satellite roller ensures consistent control over air intake and roll hardness, delivering tightly wound, stable rolls every time. Users can also integrate a post-cooling roller to further optimize film properties.
The system supports both shafted and shaftless winding, with optional overhead crane compatibility, providing seamless integration into various production environments.
Seamless Roll Changes, Enhanced Film Integrity
To maintain optimal film quality up to the final layer, the W1300 features driven auxiliary contact rollers that engage during roll changes. For versatility in film types, users can choose between a full-width twisting knife ideal for thinner films and a flying knife for thicker and oriented films.
Retrofit-Ready and Independent
Thanks to its standalone design, complete with its own control system and electrical components, the W1300 can be easily installed not only on new lines but also retrofitted to existing third-party cast film lines making it a smart investment for producers looking to upgrade efficiency without overhauling their entire setup.
With the launch of the W1300, SML once again positions itself at the forefront of film winding technology thinking big and delivering smart solutions for the flexible packaging industry.