The majority of ID, bank and other smart card manufacturers buys pre-produced magnetic, signature and other security stripe layers in addition. The suppliers of these layers require large lots to be able to provide inexpensive prices. This limits the flexibility of the card producers concerning card type and layout changes.

Mühlbauer’s new tape layer MAE 12 is the key to retrieve this flexibility. The stripes – coming from reel – are applied and securely connected directly with a substrate. Afterwards the complete layer is wound-up or optionally cutted into card sheet format. Thereby, the system provides highest flexibility regarding type, size, placement and amount of stripes, independent of any consumable supplier. Overlays from 40 to 700 microns and a width of up to 780 mm can be handled.

The MAE 12 processes up to 24 stripes (12 magnetic and 12 signature stripes) in parallel. The machine’s speed is up to 25 meters per minute. The result is a maximum throughput of up to 180,000 cards per hour. The correct assembly of stripes and substrate is guaranteed by the included tape guidance.

Beneath flexibility, accurancy and speed, the main benefit of the MAE 12 is the intuitive handling due to a structured operator panel in combination with the easy process. Thanks to the operator-friendly setup of the machine, maintenance services are possible within shortest time. Sophisticated snap closing technology for stripes and substrates speeds up product change-overs. This keeps down the stationary times and thus, raises the efficiency of the machine.