Glatfelter Expands Festooning Capacity

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Glatfelter, York, Pa., USA, reports that it is expanding its proprietary festooning capacity, in response to rapidly growing demand in the Americas. The company operates festooning lines at its Falkenhagen, Germany, and Gatineau, Quebec operations. This investment will significantly increase capacity at the Gatineau facility.

Project costs are factored into the company’s previously reported capital guidance of $60 million to $65 million for 2011. While improving service to the growing demand of its customer base, Glatfelter also expects the investment to contribute to the Gatineau community by creating new employment opportunities as this capacity becomes operational.

Jonathan Bourget, VP and GM, Advanced Airlaid Materials Business Unit explains that "our festooning technology provides our customers with unique benefits to improve operational efficiency and reduce conversion costs. This investment virtually doubles our North American capacity. Demand for festooned products has been increasing rapidly and adding a new line will position Glatfelter to better serve our growing global customer base."

Glatfelter notes that festooning technology:

• Lowers total logistic costs
• Improves material handling
• Increases customers' converting run-times
• Generates higher product value due to fewer material splices and low reject rates
• Creates less dust generation during the de-festooning process
• Delivers products with very high quality and consistent run ability.

The company explains that, especially in today’s challenging global economy, these are critical performance features for manufacturers of end-use nonwoven goods, such as those used in disposable absorbent hygiene and personal care, home care, and food packaging products.