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COLD TRANSFER

The Inline Solution for Creating a Metalized Effect on Packaging

What is Cold Transfer?

Cold Transfer is a cutting-edge printing and finishing technique used to apply metallic effects, with the use of cold foil, onto printed materials without the use of heat. Unlike traditional hot foil stamping, Cold Transfer is integrated directly into the printing press workflow, enabling inline application and offering greater efficiency and versatility.

What is Cold Foil?

Cold Foil refers to a foil with a thin layer of aluminium particles, often silver or gold, that is transferred onto a substrate using a pressure-sensitive adhesive and printing rollers. The foil is applied cold (without heat), making it compatible with heat-sensitive materials and capable of producing high-resolution metallic effects across a broad range of applications including packaging, labels, and commercial print.

What is the Basic Principle of the Process?

The Cold Transfer process begins by printing an adhesive in the desired image or pattern using a standard printing unit. A foil is then pressed onto the adhesive using a nip. Where the adhesive has been printed, the aluminium adheres; the foil with the remaining aluminium is rewound or removed. Additional colours or coatings can then be overprinted on the foil, inline, to create a wide variety of visual effects.

What Are the Advantages

  • Eco-Friendly
    • Cold Transfer eliminates the need for heat and metal dies, reducing energy consumption and waste.
    • Cold foil is made with an ultra-thin layer of metal (typically aluminium) that is only a few nanometres thick. During the recycling process, this tiny metallic layer does not behave like traditional metalized films or laminated foils. Instead, it tends to separate easily from the paper fibres during de-inking.
  • Cost-Effective for Short & Long Runs
    • With no tooling costs, it’s ideal for short to medium production runs.
    • Due to the lack of speed limitation (up to 20,000 sh/h or 320m/min) with the Cold Transfer process, long runs can easily be realized.
  • High Design Flexibility
    • Enables quick changes in design without physical tooling, making it perfect for personalization and variable data printing.
    • Due to overprinting, all colours of metallization can be realized without the need of different coloured foils.
  • Inline Processing
    • Cold Transfer can be integrated directly into the press line, streamlining production and increasing output speed.
  • High-Quality Results
    • Delivers sharp, detailed metallic effects, even on fine text and complex patterns.
    • Speed-to-market potential – shortened production times due to the inline process.

Important Factors for Best Quality in Cold Transfer

Achieving top-tier results with Cold Transfer depends on several key variables:
  • Substrate Selection: Smooth, coated papers and films yield the best foil adhesion and clarity.
  • Adhesive Control: Uniform application and curing of the adhesive is critical for sharp and consistent foil transfer.
  • Foil Type and Quality: Choosing the appropriate foil for the substrate and design ensures durability and visual impact.
  • Press Setup: Accurate registration, consistent pressure, and precise nip roller settings are essential.
  • Environmental Conditions: Controlled humidity and temperature in the pressroom help maintain consistent results.