MESIM® is the latest state-of-the-art mechanical simultaneous stretching technology offered by DMT. After numerous tests in DMT’s lab-line and now after start up of the first commercial MESIM® line, this equipment can be considered the only one offering simultaneous stretched film production on the highest quality level at minimum production costs for a reasonable investment. Other technologies, like the linear motor system could not succeed in the market due to the extraordinary high investment and operation costs (especially energy consumption) as well the inherent process limitation of such concept.
Other mechanical systems designed decades ago can hardly offer the same advantages as MESIM®. Today, simultaneous stretching is applied to produce high end film, e.g. optical grade, thin film and many other types with superior balanced physical properties. Since the film has no contact to any rolls during the stretching process, the optical and film properties can be significantly improved compared to the conventional two step stretching process.
Production Principles Simultaneously stretched films are highly valued and reach the highest sales margins, if produced in an economical way. Basically, there are various technologies available to stretch film in MD and TD direction simultaneously: double bubble process, linear motor driven stretching system and mechanical simultaneous stretching technology.
Despite the fact that double bubble process belongs to the oldest technology, such process can be considered obsolete for high end films. Due to high investment, operation costs and process-limitations, the linear motor system largely failed to be accepted in the market starting from its introduction nearly 15 years ago. Fixed mechanical systems are not flexible and not efficient enough. Such systems are considered to be obsolete.
MESIM®– Mechancial Simultaneous Stretching by DMT Ever since from the beginning of DMT in the early 90ies, the development of an economic, flexible and reliable simultaneous stretching system has been one target of the R&D department. Whereas the “first generation MESIM®”, developed a decade ago had limits in its flexibility and speed, the “today” MESIM®, has overcome such shortcomings due to these main features:
- highest degree in flexibility (MD and TD stretching ratios - adjustable during production) - minimum film bowing increases production efficiency and improves quality (controlled with DMT bowing meter) - widest process window (shrink, high barrier, low sealing, thin, thick, optical, ..) - reasonable investment and low operational costs comparable to sequential stretching - system based on proven and known technologies - exceptionally appropriate for the development of new film grades
MESIM® - Finally proved in the market DMT introduced the new MESIM® at the K-Show 2007 with a medium-sized lab-line. Although new technology, the advantages and the simplicity of the system could easily convince even critical visitors and film producers. It did not take long till the first orders were signed. Now one of the first commercial projects is being started up. Reviewing the last four years, the only simultaneous stretching line sold was MESIM®. Especially with the development of new applications concerning optical films the tendency to go for a MESIM® line will keep up and increase.
