UPM Specialty Papers has introduced an updated version of its UPM Forte™ glassine precoating designed to help labelstock manufacturers and siliconizers improve the cost structure and efficiency of silicone coating.
The enhanced precoating is now available across a broader range of UPM glassine grades.
Producers of release liners continue to face rising energy and raw material costs, especially in silicone curing, where platinum pricing and high-temperature processes have a major impact on total production expenses. UPM’s improved precoating aims to address these pressures by creating a surface that supports faster curing, lower temperatures and stronger silicone anchoring.
According to the company, the precoating gives manufacturers flexibility to choose silicone formulations based on their priorities. Some options can use up to 50% less platinum, while others cure at temperatures up to 15% lower—reducing energy use and helping retain the strength of the paper. Lower curing temperatures may also support downgauging to lighter glassine grades.
Faster curing can also increase coater speeds for producers seeking gains in throughput without major equipment changes. For printers, the upgraded surface can improve high-speed release and reduce silicone transfer, which helps maintain print quality on sensitive filmic face materials.
The updated precoating is available in three glassine grades covering established industrial shades and basis weights from 45 g/m² to 78 g/m². UPM says the technology has been evaluated in collaboration with partners across the label value chain, including silicone suppliers and labelstock producers.
UPM Specialty Papers produces papers for packaging, labelling, office and graphic uses, supported by mills in China, Finland and Germany and a global team of about 2,000 employees.
UPM develops fibre-based and advanced materials and operates worldwide with about 15,800 employees. The company generated about €10.3 billion in sales in 2024 and is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
Source: UPM
