Turning a creative concept into consistent, high-volume packaging decoration is one of the biggest challenges for brands and converters. Graphic designers and marketing teams ask for bold finishes, complex effects and rapid launches, while production departments must guarantee efficiency, repeatability and cost control. Bridging this gap requires more than a single machine: it demands an integrated, automated platform.
This is the role of Tapematic PST Line II, a modular in-line system that connects every step of the process, from surface preparation and UV coating to 3D metallization and final curing coating. By combining advanced automation, modular design and resource-efficient engineering, PST Line II helps manufacturers move smoothly from design to delivery with fewer bottlenecks and higher overall productivity.

PST Line II as the backbone of modern packaging decoration

Tapematic PST Line II is conceived as a complete in-line decoration and metallization system, rather than a set of isolated machines. Each module focuses on a specific function, while standardized interfaces and tray handling systems ensure that components move seamlessly from one stage to the next.
A typical configuration can include:

• cleaning and pre-treatment modules
• UV coating systems for base coats and functional layers
• high-performance 3D metallization with modules such as S8+4
• curing and post-treatment units
• inspection and unloading stations

Because PST Line II is modular, manufacturers can tailor the layout to their portfolio and gradually expand or adapt it as new projects, finishes and volumes emerge.

From creative concept to industrial process

When a new decorated package is designed, it must be translated into a stable industrial process. Color, gloss level, coverage, masking and functional properties all need to be defined in terms of concrete process parameters. The architecture of Tapematic PST Line II is built to support this transition.
Process engineers can assign each operation to a dedicated module and fine-tune:

• UV coating thickness and curing profiles
• number and type of in-line metallization steps
• interaction between decorative and functional layers
• handling, orientation and spacing on PST Line trays

Once the optimal recipe is defined, it can be reproduced with high precision across large production batches. This tight integration between design intent and machine capability helps shorten development cycles while maintaining strict quality requirements.

Advanced automation for continuous and stable production

A key strength of Tapematic systems is the level of automation implemented throughout PST Line II. Intelligent handling solutions ensure that each part is positioned, transferred and processed with minimal manual intervention.
This advanced automation delivers several benefits:

• stable, uninterrupted production flow
• reduced risk of human error and contamination
• constant cycle times and accurate takt control
• lower labour demand for repetitive tasks

By keeping parts on standardized trays as they move through UV coating, in-line metallization and curing, the line maintains consistent process conditions from start to finish. This stability is essential for demanding sectors such as cosmetic packaging, beverage, pharmaceuticals and automotive components, where every decorated piece must match strict visual and functional standards.

Integrating S8+4 for high-value 3D metallization

When projects require premium metallic finishes or functional metal layers, Tapematic S8+4 can be integrated directly into PST Line II as an in-line 3D metallization module. The system is based on a dual sputtering system with dual-independent cathodes, each capable of depositing a distinct metal layer within a single continuous cycle.
This configuration allows manufacturers to:

• combine decorative and functional metallization in one process
• achieve complex color and effect combinations on demanding geometries
• coat both conductive and mechanically resistant substrates for technical applications

Placed within the PST Line II architecture, S8+4 becomes part of a fully synchronized workflow, from surface preparation to final finish. This reduces handling, shortens process chains and ensures that metallized parts are ready for downstream operations or immediate delivery.

UV coating as a bridge between design and durability

High-performance UV coating systems are a central element of Tapematic technology. On PST Line II, they serve multiple roles:

• providing a controlled base layer for in-line metallization
• ensuring adhesion and durability for decorative layers
• enabling specific optical or tactile effects requested by designers
• protecting sensitive substrates and printed graphics

Because coating units are integrated into the same modular platform as S8+4 and other finishing modules, manufacturers can precisely coordinate coating and metallization parameters. This alignment is crucial when customers demand both striking visual impact and long-term resistance to mechanical stress, chemicals or environmental exposure.

Streamlined logistics with tray handling systems

A distinctive feature of Tapematic PST Line solutions is the use of a common tray concept across the entire line. Parts are mounted on standardized trays at the beginning of the process and remain on them through UV coating, 3D metallization, curing and inspection.
This approach offers several advantages for design-to-delivery workflows:

• reduced changeover times thanks to repeatable tray setups
• simplified programming of robots and handling axes
• fewer transfer points and lower risk of damage or misalignment
• easier integration of additional modules when production requirements evolve

For manufacturers managing multiple SKUs, formats and surface designs, standard trays combined with modular stations make it easier to switch from one job to another without sacrificing stability or output.

Sustainability built into the process

From the first design brief to the final decorated part, sustainability is increasingly a core decision driver. Tapematic PST Line II and S8+4 are engineered to support more responsible production through:

• UV coatings that help reduce waste and emissions
• energy-efficient in-line metallization processes
• automation that lowers rejection rates and scrap
• modular upgrades that extend equipment lifetime instead of requiring complete replacement

By uniting sustainable design, resource-conscious engineering and advanced automation, the line enables brands and converters to deliver high-impact packaging decoration with a reduced environmental footprint and optimised operational costs.

Flexible platforms for different plant layouts

While PST Line II represents the core modular platform, Tapematic also offers configurations such as PST Line C, which provides similar decoration capabilities in a more compact, non-modular layout. Both are designed to integrate with UV coating systems, and in-line metallization modules, allowing manufacturers to select the solution that best fits their available space, budget and production strategy.
In larger or rapidly evolving plants, the modular architecture of PST Line II offers maximum freedom for expansion and reconfiguration. In more space-constrained environments, a compact line can still deliver automated, high-quality packaging decoration while benefiting from the same process know-how.

From first idea to finished part, on a single integrated line
When all these elements come together – PST Line II as a modular backbone, UV coating systems for tailored surfaces, S8+4 for advanced 3D metallization, and robust tray handling systems – the path from design to delivery becomes much more streamlined.
Design teams gain the freedom to specify ambitious decorative concepts, knowing that they can be translated into stable, scalable industrial processes. Production teams benefit from continuous flow, high uptime and predictable quality. Brand owners receive finished components that reflect their visual identity and performance requirements, ready to reach the market with confidence.
By approaching packaging decoration as an integrated, automated workflow rather than a set of disconnected steps, Tapematic PST Line II offers a powerful platform for manufacturers who want to transform creative ideas into high-volume reality with efficiency, consistency and long-term flexibility.