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Vacuum technology in surface coating: benefits and innovations
Discover how vacuum technology enhances surface coating with efficiency, precision and sustainability for cosmetic packaging and beyond.
Vacuum technology has become a milestone in modern surface coating processes, especially in sectors where aesthetics, durability and precision are critical. Among the leaders driving this evolution is Tapematic, a company that has combined decades of engineering expertise with a forward-looking vision for automation, sustainability and performance. Through its modular inline systems and mastery of vacuum-based sputtering, Tapematic delivers high-quality, environmentally conscious solutions for the cosmetic packaging industry and other demanding sectors.
Tapematic’s PST Line II represents the most advanced solution currently offered by the company. It is the reference system for vacuum-based surface treatment and decoration, combining cleaning and pretreatment, UV base coating, sputtering and UV top coating within a single automated inline process. The use of vacuum technology in the sputtering phase ensures the deposition of ultra-thin metallic or functional layers with high uniformity and adherence. This process enhances the final product’s optical qualities while adding functional resistance to external factors like abrasion, UV exposure or chemical interaction.
The inline configuration of PST Line II is a key innovation. Each module is designed for a specific process step and can be customized according to the client’s needs. All stages occur without interrupting the workflow, reducing handling and production times, increasing throughput and minimizing the margin for human error. This system is not only efficient but also space-saving, requiring less than 100 square meters of installation area.
The vacuum environment is essential to create a controlled atmosphere where metal particles are deposited onto substrates with atomic precision. This not only improves visual consistency but also supports more complex finishes like gradient metallization, mirror effects, or selective coating.
Vacuum coating also opens the door to new aesthetic languages. Combined with UV base and top coats, it allows brands to achieve vibrant colors, metallic lusters and matte/gloss contrasts that stand out on shelves. Moreover, the use of vacuum means that minimal material is wasted, and no solvents are released into the environment—making it a cleaner, safer process.
Tapematic’s modular systems operate with reduced energy consumption thanks to intelligent curing cycles and efficient hardware design. Compared to traditional coating lines, which may require over 100 kW of power, Tapematic’s systems often function with less than 20 kW. This not only reduces operating costs but also contributes to the environmental targets of manufacturers across various industries.
The vacuum coating modules are also built with durability and low maintenance in mind. Thanks to high-grade materials and robust construction, Tapematic’s equipment delivers consistent performance even under intensive use. This reliability minimizes downtime and helps companies maintain high productivity standards without compromising on quality.
For businesses that need a more compact solution, Tapematic offers the PST Line C. It delivers the same decoration and coating capabilities as PST Line II but in a non-modular, all-in-one unit. It is perfect for small to mid-sized operations or for companies entering the vacuum coating market who need agility and reduced initial investment. Contrary to outdated assumptions, PST Line C is not limited to cylindrical parts: it can handle various formats with the same high-quality standards.
Both systems can be adapted with specific modules, including those for loading/unloading, cleaning and pretreatment, primer application, UV coating and of course, vacuum-based sputtering. This flexibility allows for a tailored production process that supports complex branding requirements, packaging innovation and continuous process improvement.
In the automotive sector, vacuum sputtering is used to enhance the durability and appearance of interior trims, light reflectors and decorative accents. For beverage and pharma industries, it ensures chemical resistance and long-term performance.
Tapematic’s systems have been designed to meet the stringent requirements of each of these industries. By combining engineering precision with flexible architecture, the company has created a platform that supports multiple market segments without compromising on specialization.
Vacuum coating is no longer a niche process—it is rapidly becoming a standard in high-value packaging, where precision and visual impact go hand in hand. Tapematic’s solutions provide manufacturers with the tools to maintain a competitive edge while reducing waste, energy consumption and environmental footprint.
By choosing Tapematic’s vacuum-based systems, companies are not just investing in a machine—they are adopting a complete process philosophy designed around efficiency, innovation and long-term success.
Enhancing efficiency through vacuum coating with the PST Line II
Tapematic’s PST Line II represents the most advanced solution currently offered by the company. It is the reference system for vacuum-based surface treatment and decoration, combining cleaning and pretreatment, UV base coating, sputtering and UV top coating within a single automated inline process. The use of vacuum technology in the sputtering phase ensures the deposition of ultra-thin metallic or functional layers with high uniformity and adherence. This process enhances the final product’s optical qualities while adding functional resistance to external factors like abrasion, UV exposure or chemical interaction.
The inline configuration of PST Line II is a key innovation. Each module is designed for a specific process step and can be customized according to the client’s needs. All stages occur without interrupting the workflow, reducing handling and production times, increasing throughput and minimizing the margin for human error. This system is not only efficient but also space-saving, requiring less than 100 square meters of installation area.
Vacuum sputtering for high-end cosmetic packaging
One of the most significant applications of vacuum technology in Tapematic’s offering is in cosmetic packaging. High-end cosmetic products demand a combination of attractive finish and functional durability, which is achieved through precise metallization using vacuum-based sputtering.The vacuum environment is essential to create a controlled atmosphere where metal particles are deposited onto substrates with atomic precision. This not only improves visual consistency but also supports more complex finishes like gradient metallization, mirror effects, or selective coating.
Vacuum coating also opens the door to new aesthetic languages. Combined with UV base and top coats, it allows brands to achieve vibrant colors, metallic lusters and matte/gloss contrasts that stand out on shelves. Moreover, the use of vacuum means that minimal material is wasted, and no solvents are released into the environment—making it a cleaner, safer process.
Sustainable performance and resource optimization
Beyond visual results, Tapematic integrates vacuum technology into a wider sustainability strategy. Traditional coating methods, such as spraying or dipping, often involve high levels of overspray, VOC emissions and material waste. In contrast, vacuum-based sputtering uses physical vapor deposition, a process that requires no solvents and ensures material efficiency close to 100%.Tapematic’s modular systems operate with reduced energy consumption thanks to intelligent curing cycles and efficient hardware design. Compared to traditional coating lines, which may require over 100 kW of power, Tapematic’s systems often function with less than 20 kW. This not only reduces operating costs but also contributes to the environmental targets of manufacturers across various industries.
The vacuum coating modules are also built with durability and low maintenance in mind. Thanks to high-grade materials and robust construction, Tapematic’s equipment delivers consistent performance even under intensive use. This reliability minimizes downtime and helps companies maintain high productivity standards without compromising on quality.
Modularity and customization: PST Line II and PST Line C
The modularity of Tapematic’s vacuum coating lines allows companies to configure their systems based on real-world production needs. PST Line II is the flagship system, ideal for manufacturers that require high capacity and full process integration. It enables complete control over all coating parameters, ensuring optimal results across different shapes and materials.For businesses that need a more compact solution, Tapematic offers the PST Line C. It delivers the same decoration and coating capabilities as PST Line II but in a non-modular, all-in-one unit. It is perfect for small to mid-sized operations or for companies entering the vacuum coating market who need agility and reduced initial investment. Contrary to outdated assumptions, PST Line C is not limited to cylindrical parts: it can handle various formats with the same high-quality standards.
Both systems can be adapted with specific modules, including those for loading/unloading, cleaning and pretreatment, primer application, UV coating and of course, vacuum-based sputtering. This flexibility allows for a tailored production process that supports complex branding requirements, packaging innovation and continuous process improvement.
Vacuum technology across industries
While Tapematic’s expertise is most visible in the cosmetic sector, the benefits of vacuum technology extend far beyond. Automotive components, beverage containers and pharmaceutical packaging also rely on vacuum-deposited coatings for both functional and aesthetic purposes.In the automotive sector, vacuum sputtering is used to enhance the durability and appearance of interior trims, light reflectors and decorative accents. For beverage and pharma industries, it ensures chemical resistance and long-term performance.
Tapematic’s systems have been designed to meet the stringent requirements of each of these industries. By combining engineering precision with flexible architecture, the company has created a platform that supports multiple market segments without compromising on specialization.
Future-ready innovation
As global manufacturing continues to move towards automation, sustainability and personalization, Tapematic’s vacuum technology positions it at the forefront of this transformation. Through continuous research and development, the company refines its machinery to respond to market changes and customer needs.Vacuum coating is no longer a niche process—it is rapidly becoming a standard in high-value packaging, where precision and visual impact go hand in hand. Tapematic’s solutions provide manufacturers with the tools to maintain a competitive edge while reducing waste, energy consumption and environmental footprint.
By choosing Tapematic’s vacuum-based systems, companies are not just investing in a machine—they are adopting a complete process philosophy designed around efficiency, innovation and long-term success.