Flexography is a printing technique that uses pressure and relief plates to create images. The plates adhere to the cylinder and then they get inked a roller. The substrate passes through the impression cylinder and plate cylinder to get ink transfer. In most cases, the ink is dried before getting to the next print stage. According to https://www.laserengravingmanufacturers.com/, you can print a wide range of products on the flexo press. Some of the products are shrink sleeves, pouches, labels, and more.
Various benefits of flexo printing make it suitable for both commercial and consumer applications. The capabilities it offers surpass other methods that do not have the same technological advancements and flexibility.
Benefits of Flexographic Printing
It is Versatile
You should note that flexographic printing can work with a range of fast-drying inks and substrates. That makes it the best option for package printing. In fact, this process allows printing on both non-porous and porous surfaces. Moreover, lightweight and low strength substrates like films, foils, and paper can be used. Unlike other printing methods, this printing technology uses a variety of inks, which need minimal drying time. Since the ink gets dried on the press, the material can go to the post-printing. Other than using traditional solvent-based inks, you can also use water-based, fluorescent, metallic, and UV-curable inks.
Ink Control
An important thing you will like about flexographic printing is the ability to control the amount of ink used. As you know, issues with the distribution of ink can damage your printing. This can cost you a lot of money as you need to purchase new materials. Fortunately, pre-defined inking amounts mean that you do not have to make re-calculations or adjustments during the printing process. The other benefit of flexographic printing is the ability to generate large prints with excellent color consistency. Since the ink dries quite quickly, you can add multiple layers instantly.
High Printing Speeds
One of the reasons flexo printing is quite popular is the high production speed. There are different factors that contribute to this: short setup time, fast-drying ink, easy cleanup process, and the ability to integrate a range of finishing processes.
Makes Platemaking Easier
Flexographic printing technology is used by manufacturers to print a lot of images with a few templates. You should note that using this technology for plate making is more economical than other methods. In fact, the plate that is made during flexo printing is durable. Also, you can achieve a consistent image with each print. You can ensure that every copy of the print is a replica of the original one.
Environmentally-Friendly Printing
The fact that flexographic printing uses solvent-free inks; helps reduce the amount of VOC emissions. Also, most printing machines have the ability to recycle spent wash water and ink. This helps further to reduce the number of chemicals that get to the environment.
Over the years, flexographic printing has grown when it comes to productivity and quality. Moreover, innovations and process improvements are still being made. Many stakeholders have invested heavily in this printing technology to make it more sustainable, and cost-effective.
