Bridging the gap between laboratory development and manufacturing
Albotherm is developing temperature-responsive film technology, and as its technology progresses from concept towards practical testing and validation, the ability to produce consistent, representative samples has become an important part of its R&D process.
To support this development, Albotherm selected theK303S Multicoater, following a strong recommendation from a trusted advisor with previous experience of RK equipment.
The K303S has since become an important development tool, enabling Albotherm to rapidly screen material combinations, optimise its coating process and produce minimum viable product (MVP) versions of its films.
“The K303S has played a key role in the development of our temperature-responsive film technology. It has allowed us to rapidly screen different material combinations and optimise our coating process.”
— Albotherm
From laboratory development to practical testing
For Albotherm, the objective was to find a coating platform that could help bridge the gap between laboratory development and manufacturing.
The K303S provided a practical route to producing representative samples using processes that closely reflect larger-scale production methods.
This has allowed Albotherm to move beyond concept-stage development and into practical testing and validation, while building confidence in the results generated during its R&D screening.
Producing repeatable samples
Repeatability has been particularly important during Albotherm’s development work.
Using the K303S, the team has successfully produced highly repeatable samples measuring approximately 30 cm × 25 cm, which have been used in proof-of-concept trials.
The equipment’s straightforward operation, together with the level of control and consistency it provides, has enabled Albotherm to produce the samples required at this stage of its development.
“The equipment was straightforward to operate and provided the level of control and consistency we needed. The repeatability of the coating process has given us confidence in the results generated during our R&D screening.”
— Albotherm
Supporting the journey towards scale-up
As Albotherm continues to develop its technology, the ability to work at a smaller scale using processes representative of larger roll-to-roll production is proving valuable.
The K303S allows the team to develop and optimise coatings before committing to larger manufacturing trials, helping to reduce the risks associated with scale-up and build confidence ahead of future production activity.
Albotherm is also exploring RK’s pilot coating capabilities as a potential next step as the technology progresses towards commercial production.
A partnership built around support and expertise
For Albotherm, the relationship with RK PrintCoat Instruments extends beyond the equipment itself.
The team describes its experience with RK as extremely positive, highlighting the responsiveness, knowledge and support provided throughout the process — from equipment selection through to operation and application advice.
“The K303S has proven to be a reliable and effective development tool, and the combination of excellent customer support and scalable equipment solutions has made RK a valuable partner in our development journey.”
— Albotherm
We are delighted to be supporting Albotherm as it continues to develop its temperature-responsive film technology and look forward to following the next stage of its journey towards commercial production.
About the K303S Multicoater
The K303S Multicoater enables accurate and reproducible prints and coatings to be produced using a wide range of products and substrates. Its interchangeable heads provide Gravure, Flexo and Meter Bar coating capabilities, while multiple coatings can be produced simultaneously for comparison.
Customer: Albotherm
Equipment: K303S Multicoater
Application: Film development and R&D
Technology: Temperature-responsive film
