The Optiflow is Apollo's first nonrotating die. Previously, gauge bands were randomized by die rotation. Glenn points to the Traversanip(r) oscillating hauloff on the top of the tower. "The T-Nip," he says, "creates a unique roll profile that the rotating diescan't approach. The virtually zero gauge banding that results from using the Traversanip and IBC is a big part of the new higher quality."

Comparison Shopping Pays Off
Despite its long-term relationship with Battenfeld Gloucester, when Apollo decided it wanted a line of this type, company officials went shopping. "I've been very satisfied with the responsiveness of Gloucester's service and support over the years," says Glenn, "but it makes sense to check all the options." They found that Gloucester not only met all of Apollo's specifications but also was able to recommend and provide some custom items that helped improve the flexibility of the line. Since Apollo wanted to do in-line gusseting, but not all the time, Gloucester's engineers designed a retractable gusset board/side guide configuration into the film path below the Traversanip hauloff. "It is a great time saver," Glenn says, "and a good example of how Gloucester works with the company on any request, even if it involves something totally new. "Apollo's 64-in. Gloucester blown film line also includes the Model 1001D winder, which Glenn notes has rugged construction and discrete automated controls that put the finishing touch to the extremely high quality rolls this line makes. "The real beauty of this line," says Glenn, "is that it combines reliability and cost control, such as minimal maintenance and downtime, with extremely high quality film. We have the tightest possible tolerances for gauge and layflat, and that's why we can move

into super-critical applications. We can get the quality we need and at the same time downgauge for cost control where possible. All of this together is what helps Apollo gain entry into new and more profitable markets. "He adds, "More importantly, Apollo stays inthose accounts because the high quality, which is easily seen and appreciated by customers, is consistent, order after order." The company has yet another Battenfeld Gloucester film line being set up as this article goes to press. It is a 94-in. line, strictly for LLDPE, that includes many of the same features as the 64-in. line, including the Traversanip oscillating hauloff, the 1001 Series winders, and a 4180 bag machine. It is scheduled for startup by the end of April. "The newest line has given us a good shot of momentum in meeting customer demands," Glenn says of the 94-in. line. "It was built to improve the quality, production capabilities, and lead times in our bread and butter business."      Supplier Information:
Battenfeld Gloucester Engineering Co.
Gloucester, MA; ph: 978/281-1800;
fax: 978/282-9111.
Davis-Standard Egan
Somerville, NJ; ph: 908/722-6000;
fax: 908/722-6000.
Reifenhauser Inc.
Lawrence, MA; ph: 978/686-2700;
fax: 978/686-4765.
Bell-Mark Corp.
Pine Brook, NJ; ph: 973/882-0202;
fax: 973/808-4616.
Manzoni-Costruzioni Mellaniche
Rep. in N.A. by Apollo Pack Inc.,
Toronto, Ont., Canada;
ph: 905/946-8716; fax: 905/946-9746.