9 Advantages of Flexo Printing over Other Printing
Introduction to Flexo Printing
Flexo printing, also known as flexographic printing, is a printing method that uses flexible photopolymer plates to transfer ink onto a variety of substrates. It is a versatile printing method that can be used to print on a wide range of materials, including paper, plastic, film, metal, and even glass. Flexography is a popular printing method that is also known for its high quality, speed, and versatility. It is a good choice for businesses that need to print a large volume of products on a variety of substrates.How Flexo Printing Works?
The flexo printing process involves the following steps in any type of flexo printing machine:- Plate Preparation for the Print: A photopolymer plate is created using a digital image or a laser engraving process. The plate is then mounted onto a printing cylinder.
- Inking: The printing cylinder is rotated through an ink reservoir, which coats the raised portions of the plate with ink.
- Printing: The inked printing cylinder is then pressed against the substrate, transferring the ink onto the material.
- Drying of the Ink: The printed substrate is then passed through a drying system to remove the excess ink.
Versatility of Flexo Printing
Flexo printing is a versatile printing method that can be used to print a wide variety of products, including:- Packaging: Flexo printing is widely used for printing packaging for a variety of products, including food, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
- Labels: Flexo printing is also a popular choice for printing labels, as it can produce high-quality labels with intricate designs.
- Textiles: Flexo printing can be used to print on a variety of textiles, including fabrics, carpets, and apparel.
- Industrial Products: Flexo printing is also used to print on a variety of industrial products, such as electrical components, toys, and sporting goods.
Advantages of Flexo Printing
Flexo printing offers several advantages over other printing methods, including:- High quality print: Flexography can produce high-quality prints with fine details and vibrant colors.
- High speed production: Flexo printing is fast and efficient. Modern flexo presses can print at speeds of over 600 feet per minute.
- Extremely versatile print process: Flexo printing can be used to print on a wide variety of substrates, including paper, plastic, film, metal, and even glass.
- Very economic for medium & high volume production: Flexo printing is a cost-effective printing method for medium and high volume runs.
- One-off cost for plates: The cost of making flexo plates is relatively low, and the plates can be used for multiple print runs.
- In-line converting flexibility: Flexo presses can be equipped with a variety of in-line converting features, such as die-cutting, embossing, and laminating.
- Possible to print on a wide range of substrates: Flexo printing can be used to print on a wide variety of substrates, including paper, board, foil, plastic film, cellophane, recycled substrates, and a variety of textiles.
- Possible to use different types of inks & drying systems: Flexo printing can be used with a variety of inks, including water-based and solvent-based inks. Flexo presses can also be equipped with a variety of drying systems, such as air heaters, IR dryers, and UV dryers.
- Easy to use and maintain: Flexo presses are relatively easy to use and maintain.