Lecta has commissioned a new metallising line, at its mill in Leitza, Navarra, Spain. The Expert K5 2450mm metalliser was developed in collaboration with Bobst.
The new line is the third metalliser supplied by Bobst at the Leitza facility and has been described as “unique” by Pedro Bartulos, technology sales manager at Bobst, due to the “biggest” reel diameter of any Expert K5 Bobst has ever produced at 1.5m.
Named after the river that runs alongside the mill, Lecta said the Leitzaran line reflects both the site’s connection to its surrounding environment and a long-standing collaboration between the two companies spanning more than 30 years. The installation has been operational since the start of February 2026, and is intended to increase metallising capacity while improving consistency, efficiency and scalability in metallised paper production.
The installation incorporates a range of technologies aimed at enhancing process control and operational performance. These include increased metallising capacity, the introduction of Bobst iMA (Intelligent Metallizer Assistant) for automated control of the deposition process, and the use of AluBond technology to improve aluminium layer adhesion and barrier properties. Additional features include improved precision in aluminium layer control, higher production speeds and an expanded coating window.
Mr Bartulos commented: “Bobst and Lecta have had a relationship going back many years and we are delighted that they were the first company in the world to have Bobst iMA on their machine.”
The system is designed to support paper widths of up to 240cm and basis weights ranging from 35 to 300gsm, offering greater production flexibility. According to the company, these capabilities enable more efficient processes and support the consistent production of high-performance barrier papers for packaging applications.
Igor Iceta, mill director at Lecta’s Leitza mill, said: “The commissioning of the Leitzaran metallising line marks an important milestone for the Leitza mill. It has been a pleasure to collaborate again with Bobst on this project. The new metalliser enhances process control, operational efficiency and production flexibility.”
The investment forms part of Lecta’s broader development of its metallised paper portfolio. In recent years, the company has expanded its range of metallised paper solutions, particularly for flexible packaging, while maintaining its wet-glue and label product lines.
