Lundberg Tech automates label matrix waste handling

Lundberg Tech will showcase its MatrixCompactor 160 at Loupe Americas 2026, presenting an automated approach to capturing, conveying and compacting matrix waste generated during label and narrow-web converting.

The system is designed to remove waste directly from production equipment, helping converters reduce manual handling while maintaining a more consistent workflow around presses and finishing lines.

Matrix waste is compacted directly from production

Pressure-sensitive label converting generates significant quantities of matrix waste after labels are die-cut and the surrounding material is removed from the web.

MatrixCompactor 160 captures this material, together with edge trim, and compacts it instead of allowing operators to collect and handle loose or wound waste manually.

Compaction reduces transport volume

Reducing the volume of matrix waste can make internal handling, storage and external transport more efficient. Smaller waste volumes require less space and can reduce the number of collections required before material is transferred for recycling or disposal.

Lundberg Tech also links lower transport volume with reduced CO2 impact, particularly in converting operations generating substantial quantities of waste across multiple production shifts.

Automation targets operator ergonomics

The system is also intended to reduce repetitive physical tasks for press operators. Traditional matrix handling may involve removing heavy waste rolls, transporting them manually and disposing of the paper cores used during winding.

Automating these operations can reduce heavy lifting and repetitive movement while allowing operators to focus more closely on press performance and production quality.

Paper core disposal can also be reduced

By handling waste continuously rather than winding it onto disposable cores, MatrixCompactor 160 can reduce the number of paper cores consumed as part of the waste-removal process.

This creates an additional material-efficiency benefit while eliminating another consumable that converters need to purchase, store and ultimately manage as waste.

Waste handling becomes part of production efficiency

Waste extraction systems can influence overall equipment productivity because accumulation around presses or frequent manual interventions can interrupt otherwise automated production processes.

Continuous removal of matrix and edge trim can help maintain more predictable production flows and support higher levels of automation across converting operations.

Labour shortages increase interest in automation

Lundberg Tech says converters are increasingly considering workplace conditions alongside conventional productivity metrics as skilled operators become more difficult to recruit and retain.

Automating physically demanding secondary tasks can improve working conditions while allowing employees to concentrate on operations requiring greater technical expertise.

Lundberg builds on global installed base

The company has approximately 7,000 waste-handling systems installed worldwide and develops equipment for capturing, cutting, conveying and compacting production waste across label and narrow-web applications.

This installed base reflects the growing role of waste-management equipment as converters seek to improve both manufacturing efficiency and environmental performance.

Loupe Americas provides launch showcase

Lundberg Tech will present MatrixCompactor 160 at Loupe Americas 2026 in Rosemont, Illinois, from 15 to 17 September.

The demonstration highlights how ancillary systems are becoming increasingly integrated into automated label production. Rather than treating production waste as a separate downstream problem, converters are incorporating removal and compaction directly into the manufacturing process to improve ergonomics, efficiency and waste logistics.