Enhancing Quality and Sustainability with Tantec’s Surface Treatment Solutions

Introduction
Printmasters, the exclusive decorator and value-added services provider for XD Connects, specializes in offering over 20 advanced decoration techniques and a wide array of customization options. With a portfolio of over 2500 promotional products—and 300 new additions annually—the company faces unique challenges in maintaining both quality and sustainability. This case study explores how Printmasters addressed these challenges by implementing Tantec’s cutting-edge surface treatment technology, highlighting the resulting environmental and operational benefits.

Core Business and Services
Printmasters plays a pivotal role in the promotional products industry by providing state-of-the-art decoration techniques such as printing, engraving, embroidery and hot stamping. Beyond these services, they offer innovative solutions like variable data printing, individual labeling, and gift set creation to meet diverse client needs. Their commitment to quality and customization has positioned them as a trusted partner to XD Connects, a leading European supplier of promotional items.

Challenges Faced
XD Connects’ extensive product range encompasses a variety of substrates, finishes, and materials across more than 15 distinct categories. Ensuring consistent adhesion of prints and decorations posed a significant challenge, particularly as the product range grew. Low-volume decoration runs, often below 500 pieces, added complexity, making efficiency and adaptability critical. To maintain high-quality standards, Printmasters identified the need for a reliable surface treatment solution that could optimize print performance and support their evolving product line.

The Journey to Tantec
Printmasters’ relationship with Tantec began several years ago through the acquisition of a Belgian company already using Tantec’s corona treatment equipment. Over time, their trust in Tantec deepened through industry events and independent research. Tantec’s reputation as a reliable and innovative provider stood out, particularly for the pretreatment of bottles, a key category in XD Connects’ portfolio. 

Critical Decision Factors
Selecting Tantec’s Vacuum Plasma surface treatment machine was a multifaceted decision influenced by:

  • Technology: Tantec’s advanced and flexible technology suited the diverse materials in Printmasters’ product range.
  • Price-Quality Balance: The investment offered an ideal combination of affordability and durability.
  • After-Sales Support: Tantec’s responsive and reliable customer service ensured ongoing value.
  • Operational Efficiency: The equipment’s ability to handle low-volume runs effectively made it indispensable for Printmasters.

Transformative Improvements
Since implementing Tantec’s machine, Printmasters has experienced:

  • Enhanced Productivity: The machine streamlined pretreatment processes, reducing labor hours significantly.
  • Quality Consistency: Improved adhesion and finish quality across various materials.
  • Operational Workflow: Eliminated bottlenecks, enabling a smoother production process.
  • Workplace Safety: Safer working conditions for operators due to the reduction of hazardous chemicals.

Environmental Impact
Sustainability was a major factor in Printmasters’ decision to invest in Tantec’s equipment. Cosmin Lucean, Innovation & ESG manager from Printmasters, explains:

“Environmental considerations were a key factor in our decision to invest in Tantec’s equipment for pretreatment. By significantly reducing the use of chemicals such as primers, we have achieved a notable decrease in VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, aligning with our commitment to sustainability. This reduction also improves the handling and disposal of hazardous materials, minimizes the need for extensive air filtration systems, and contributes to safer working conditions for our operators by eliminating exposure to harmful chemicals. Overall, this investment supports our low-impact policy and reinforces our broader sustainability objectives.”

A Trusted Partnership
Printmasters’ positive experience with Tantec highlights the importance of choosing the right partner. Cosmin Lucean adds:

 “We would for sure highly recommend Tantec’s surface treatment machines to other companies. We encourage you to get in touch with Tantec’s team, as they are likely to have the right solution for you. During our visit, we were truly impressed by their company, the expertise of their R&D team, and the exceptional level of organization throughout their operations.”

Conclusion
By integrating Tantec’s surface treatment technology, Printmasters not only enhanced their operational efficiency and product quality but also reinforced their commitment to sustainability. This partnership exemplifies how thoughtful investments in advanced technology can drive success and align with environmental and workplace safety goals. For companies facing similar challenges, Tantec offers proven solutions tailored to diverse needs.