Home > Coatings > Slot Die Coating Equipment: Who Needs It and How Can It Serve You?

slot die cutting equipmentAt some point, your business may need to utilize slot die coating. Typically, this method uses coating tech to deliver a solution of some sort onto a substrate. The reason we refer to it as “slot die coating” is simply because the delivery method used is a slot that is kept close to the substrate’s surface. It’s a deposition technique, and it allows you to work with thin liquids. At the same time, you’re able to integrate this technique into both roll-to-roll coating and sheet-to-sheet deposition systems. If you’re looking for slot die coating equipment, we can help!

The Benefits of Slot Die Coating

First, slot die coating technology offers you high levels of uniformity, across both the length and width of the coating surface. In the world of industrial manufacturing, this consistency is key to delivering a satisfactory product.  Consistency can be difficult to achieve, especially when you’re dealing with particularly thin coatings. Slot die coating techniques are capable of depositing thin-films with thickness levels ranging from nanometers to microns. 

Secondly, the reason why you should consider slot die coating is that there’s more flexibility afforded when using the associated equipment. This allows for a greater degree of preciseness as you position the coating. Additionally, you can adjust dimensions as needed. While uniformity is the goal, you can’t expect to manufacture the same product continuously without adjustments. Our slot die coating equipment ensures that you’re able to make those adjustments without major pain points.

Slot die coating systems are also less wasteful than alternative methods. Less waste generally results in less money lost. You can apply this method to a variety of different web materials. Once you have selected this method, you can generally apply it to an array of different projects. At the same time, you can rest assured knowing that you’re not sacrificing preciseness for versatility. If your goal is to execute incredibly thin layers of coating as accurately as possible, slot die coating equipment is the solution.

Once you recognize your need for this solution, the question becomes that of which company will best serve your needs. The die process is delicate, and it’s crucial that you find a processor that can meet your demands. Conversion Technologies International could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Why You Should Outsource Production

You don’t necessarily have to handle slot die coating on your own. Many companies choose to outsource these services to contract manufacturers like CTI. This is in part because the equipment used during the process is quite specialized. Not only can it be expensive, it can also be difficult to use properly. Employees must train to use a slot die coating machine to the best of its ability. It’s difficult to execute this efficiently, and it can be more cost- and time-effective to outsource.

The great thing about outsourcing in general is that you don’t have to worry about the quality of the product. When working with an experienced manufacturer like CTI, you can rest assured knowing that we will handle your orders with care. Furthermore, you can potentially have multiple manufacturing services processed through the same manufacturer. CTI offers superior equipment and techniques, but we do not limit our services to slot die coating.

A major benefit of working with CTI is that we offer full-service contract and toll manufacturing. We do this through a modular approach to manufacturing, tackling the process piece by piece. CTI takes on multiple forms of adhesive coating, including hot roll spray adhesives, and gravure, among others. Not only will our coatings allow you to waterproof products; it will also make them stronger, more durable, or pressure-sensitive depending on the order. 

CTI has a specialized coating facility, with a diverse range of machines. Our systems can process a broad variety of substances. Ready to meet manufacturers’ demands, our facility can withstand temperatures of 350 degrees Fahrenheit or more. The resulting adhesive abilities of the products we process vary, from elastic to low-heat or non-skid. In short, the goal behind CTI is to create solutions for a varied clientele. 

FAQs About Slot Die Coating

It’s natural for you to have questions about this process. Below are a few that we can answer ahead of time.

What Kinds of Industries Utilize Slot Die Coating?

Slot die coating is a specialized process, but not to the point that it excludes many industries. The medical industry, food and beverage industry, and the solar industry are all among those that utilize it. Although their purposes vary, all of them benefit from its flexibility.

Can I Process Different Substrates?

We don’t limit you to a single substrate when working through this process. We can coat polymers, paper, glass, metal, and fabric through the slot die coating method. 

How Accurate is Slot Die Coating?

Although you know now it’s an accurate process, you may wonder about how accurate it actually is.  As previously mentioned, this process can produce a layer that is so thin that it is measured in microns. A micron is the abbreviated term for a micrometer, which is one millionth of a meter. This leaves very little margin for error. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about that. It’s been estimated the transverse web accuracy for a slot die is within a 2% margin. 

If you’re ready to pursue slot die coating, contact us at 419-924-5566 or send us a query! We’d be happy to help you determine if this method is right for your purposes.