Through three centuries, the canning industry has been a driver for Maryland’s economy. Today, the Independent Can Company , which has its corporate headquarters and manufacturing operations in Belcamp, is ensuring this proud tradition and important industrial capacity carries into the future with the launch of its new MetalStar 3 metal printer, the only machine of its kind in the Western Hemisphere.

This massive, technological marvel was manufactured in Germany by industry leader Koenig & Bauer and shipped across the Atlantic in more than 20 full-sized containers to its new, Maryland home. Now fully assembled and operating, the MetalStar 3 is a cutting edge, nine-color machine allowing for a nearly limitless range of images and graphics to be printed in a single pass, while maintaining a staggering output of up to 9,000 printed metal sheets per hour.

Independent Can’s MetalStar 3 also brings unprecedented levels of automation to the game. For Independent Can, that automation means making more cans every hour, doubling production and cutting lead time, while increasing safety and reducing physical demands on its production team, all while simultaneously revolutionizing and future-proofing the canning industry in Maryland.

Recently, the Independent Can Company hosted a ribbon cutting in Harford County to commission the brand new MetalStar 3 printing line. Watch the video below to see the machine in action and hear from Independent Can Company President Rick Huether.

Having this world-class capacity right here in Maryland means a reprieve from global supply chain issues that have rocked so many sectors. Thanks to the Independent Can Company, a member of the Maryland Marketing Partnership  and proud, four-generation local manufacturer in business since 1929, the future of this historic industry is in good, Maryland hands.

See a timelapse video showing the assembly and start-up of this mighty Maryland machine. 

Assistant Secretary of Commerce Tom Riford (at left) presents a Secretary’s Citation to Independent Can Company President Rick Huether during the September MetalStar 3 ribbon cutting.