Essen, Germany – Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint is preparing to unveil its latest advancements in metal decorating technology at METPACK 2026, scheduled to take place in Essen from May 5-8. The company, a leading system supplier in the industry, will present a comprehensive portfolio designed to optimize efficiency, digitalization, and sustainability within the metal packaging sector. At the heart of their presentation will be the world premiere of the MetalCoat 484, a new coating solution poised to redefine production standards.
With over 150 years of experience – celebrating the 150th anniversary of J.G. Mailänder, founded in 1876 – Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint aims to demonstrate its “holistic system excellence,” covering the entire metal decorating process chain. This includes printing, coating, drying, and air purification, offering a ‘One-Stop-Shop’ approach for metal packaging manufacturers. The company’s presence at METPACK 2026, specifically at Stand 3B39 in Hall 3, signals a commitment to innovation and collaboration within the industry.
MetalCoat 484: A New Standard in Coating Technology
The MetalCoat 484 is positioned as the centerpiece of Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint’s showcase. According to the company, unique features such as an automatic washing system and closed-loop coating thickness control will enable users to improve overall efficiency and profitability. Integrating the MetalCoat 484 into existing production lines is expected to reduce setup times and significantly increase overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint’s portfolio extends beyond coating, encompassing a range of printing solutions. The high-performance MetalStar 4 remains a gold standard for high-end metal printing, even as the Mailänder printing machine caters to rougher jobs. For businesses requiring flexibility with smaller batches, the MetJET series offers a complete industrial digital printing solution.
Addressing the Energy Transition with Sustainable Solutions
Recognizing the growing importance of sustainability, Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint is also highlighting its advancements in drying technologies. These include conventional gas-fired thermal drying systems with integrated air purification, utilizing HighEcon systems that can achieve gas savings of up to 70 percent compared to older installations. The company is also showcasing state-of-the-art UV and UV-LED solutions, alongside its latest hydrogen-ready oven technology, designed to enable carbon-neutral production. This commitment to reducing environmental impact aligns with broader industry trends and regulatory pressures.
The company’s long history is rooted in three industry pioneers: Mailänder, LTG, and Bauer + Kunzi. Celebrating the 150th anniversary of J.G. Mailänder underscores the company’s enduring legacy of innovation in metal printing. As Ralf Hipp, CEO of Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint, stated, “Metpack is a family gathering for us. We are looking forward to meeting our partners and customers from all over the world face-to-face in one place.”
Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint intends to employ the trade fair as a platform for discussing key industry trends, such as material consumption reduction and energy efficiency, and for developing customized solutions tailored to individual production requirements. The stand will serve as a central hub for experts to collaborate and address the evolving challenges within the metal packaging sector.
As the metal packaging industry continues to evolve, Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint’s innovations at METPACK 2026 are poised to shape the future of metal decorating. The focus on efficiency, sustainability, and comprehensive system solutions reflects a broader industry shift towards optimized production processes and reduced environmental impact. The coming months will reveal how these technologies are adopted and integrated into manufacturing operations worldwide.
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