See You in Itasca: Hannecard at the IMDPA 2026 Annual Conference

This week, the Hannecard Roller Coatings team heads to the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Itasca, Illinois, for the International Metal Decorating & Packaging Association (IMDPA) 2026 Annual Conference, September 30 – October 1.

Coating quality starts at the coater surface

On base and overvarnish coaters, how evenly the coating goes down depends heavily on the roll surface. That's where we'll be focusing our conversations this year. Our HandyCoat® system uses Monkal® polyurethane HandySleeve® coverings, developed specifically for paint and varnish applications. After grinding, Monkal has a silky surface with high surface energy, which gives very good wettability. Paints and varnishes spread evenly across the sleeve and transfer consistently to the can. The compound also stands up well to coatings and cleaning solvents, and it can be reground several times over its life.

Built around the operator

HandyCoat uses a single HandyBase core for every beverage can height. Each can size gets its own matched HandySleeve, so coating accuracy is never compromised. The sleeves are light enough to make a real difference on the line: for a 33 cl (11.2 oz) can wheel, the changeover weight drops from about 23 kg (51 lb) on a conventional three-pin setup to an 8 kg (18 lb) HandySleeve. Because the sleeves run on a precise base, they also run under steadier conditions, which contributes to longer covering life.

Let's talk

We're just as interested in what you're working on, whether that's new can formats, changes in coating chemistry, or getting more consistent coating weight out of your coaters. If you're attending, stop by our table during the exhibits on September 30. If you can't make it to Itasca, we'd be glad to hear from you anyway.