Ball develops innovative can inks
Innovative new options in beverage can decoration were showcased by Ball Corporation at the BrauBeviale show in Germany last month.
Close to commercial availability are Spot Matte and DayGlo. “The matt finish … is not simply an over-varnish,” marketing manager Marianne Freund told Food Manufacture. “The inks themselves are either gloss or matt.”
Spot finishes were not possible in the past, she explained, since the over-varnish had to cover the entire can body. These new inks are tough enough to withstand wear and tear without a protective varnish.
Freund contrasted the “highlighter” effect of Ball’s DayGlo with “very niche” UV-sensitive inks. “One of the challenges with DayGlo has been ensuring the inks do not blur, even at the highest line speeds.” According to Ball, DayGlo could be applied to highlight key claims, elements of branding or promotions.
