Ampac installs extrusion line at plant in Washington state.

Ampac Flexibles, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, the flexible packaging division of Ampac Packaging LLC, has put a new Windmoeller & Hoelscher (W&H) extrusion system into operation at its Auburn, Washington, facility.

The W&H Varex extruder has given the plant the ability to increase the output and variety of innovative multilayer film structures. The high-speed line increases film capacity, providing enhanced capabilities for continuous improvement in servicing the frozen food market as well as providing quality sealant webs to the converter industry.

"Our W&H line features the latest state-of-the-art technology in blown film production, providing high film quality and outstanding ergonomics. It also fits Ampac's sustainable goals with high efficiencies and short startup and change-over times, resulting in reduced material waste and higher productivity," said Dan McFarland, president of Ampac's Performance Printed Films group.

Windmoeller & Hoelscher, based in Langerich, Germany, is a major supplier of advanced flexographic and gravure printing presses, blown and cast film extrusion systems and multiwall bag making machines, as well as form, fill and seal equipment for the flexible packaging industry.

Ampac Packaging LLC is privately held, and is owned by senior executives together with equity backing by Prudential Capital Group and Falcon Investment Advisors. It is a diversified, international, flexible packaging company with 14 manufacturing centers in North America, Europe and Asia employing approximately 1,300 people. Revenues exceeded $300 million last year.

In addition to products offered by Ampac Flexibles, the company supplies domestic and overseas retail specialty shopping bags and security bag solutions.