For the scribing or perforation of plastics films, a compact and easy to integrate entry-level solution requires no connection to external gases and has very low power consumption.

The StarScribe Easy, manufactured in the UK, is the latest addition to the product range offered by Rofin-Baasel for the scribing or perforation of plastics films. A compact and easy to integrate entry-level solution for perforation or scribing of plastic films, the StarScribe Easy is an adaptation of the highly successful MultiScan range of laser marking systems built at Rofin-Sinar UK in Willerby, near Hull. Using a 100W slab, diffusion cooled CO2 laser, the system requires no connection to external gases and has very low power consumption.

Supplied in an easy-to-clean IP56 stainless steel enclosure, the system is designed to operate in an industrial environment.

A highly flexible 7-knuckle articulated arm allows the processing head to be positioned at the required height and orientation to suit the customer's machinery.

For multiple row applications 2, 3 or 4 head options are available using beam splitting and adjustable head separations.

This technology is primarily of interest in the food packaging industry where small holes are used in the plastics packaging of fresh foods (e.g salads) to prolong the shelf life of the food.

Almost all the types of film commonly used in the food industry (OPP, BOPP, PE, PET, Cellophane or laminated materials) can be processed at the desired quality and speed.

At suitably small diameters, the transmission of moisture is prevented but exchange of air is still ensured.

Typically, the hole sizes are small (in the region of 50 to 80 microns) and the number of holes per bag necessary to achieve the desired result is minimal.

Another application which is ideally suited to this system is the production of laser scribing in the web direction for easy-tear opening sachets and pouches.

These are typically used in the food and pharmaceutical industry to make the opening of packaging easier and more predictable.