FLEXOGRAPHY PRINTING

   What is flexo printing?

Flexo printing involves a technique using a flexible relief plate that transfers the ink to the substrate.  The plate is usually made of photopolymer. Since this is a highly flexible material, it can accommodate a huge variety of print media. Flexo printing is the system that is most commonly used for corrugated cardboard and plastic materials.

     Which inks are used?

In this printing system liquid inks are used that are characteristically quick drying. It is this high-speed drying that enables huge volumes to be printed at low cost, compared with other printing systems. However, for less absorbent substrates, it is imperative to use dryers incorporated in the printer itself.

     What type of printers do we have?

Our printers have a central rotating cylinder, with the main difference between these and other printing systems being the way in which the plate is inked. In general terms, an anilox roller picks up a thin, even layer of ink by means of microscopically small cells and meters it out when it comes into contact with the printing plate. The plate then transfers the ink to the substrate that is to be printed.

     What are the characteristics of an anilox roller?

An anilox roller is selected according to:

 Its line count.

 The angle formed by the cells.

 The geometry and depth of the cells.

 The volume of ink supplied per printed surface unit.

Flexo printing is one of the most common printing methods used for containers, plastic coatings and film (polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, etc.), plastic and paper bags, labelling for containers, etc.