Optimum Plastics to install Kiefel 9-layer blown-film line

-- Converting Magazine, 5/6/2008

Delaware, OH-based film and bag converter Optimum Plastics, Inc., purchases a new 9-layer blown-film system from Kiefel, Inc. This is the second 9-layer line for Optimum Plastics, and the first from Kiefel.

"We chose Kiefel this time because we feel they really understand our business, and how important customer service is; they get it,” says Bob Clemons, president of Optimum.

Founded in 1997, Optimum ran 3-layer blown-film lines exclusively for the first few years it was in business. As the company grew, management decided to diversify and move into production of 9-layer films for food packaging applications. 

“There is a big difference between running olefin films, which are elastic, to running nylon and EVOH, which are very stiff,” adds Clemons. “All of the drives and alignment become much more critical, and the machinery is not as forgiving. For this most recent purchase, we did our homework, and after researching the various systems on the market, we decided Kiefel was the best fit.”

The new Kiefel 9-layer system is currently being installed at Optimum’s headquarters facility in Delaware and is scheduled to be operational as of presstime.