Based on recent thermal processing equipment optimization, we looked to identify strengths and limitations of some thermal plate processing equipment. Equipment, Material and Measurement Devices Used Thermal Plate Processor G&J Flex-N-One 260 Esko CDI (HD Flexo) ITP-M – 0.045 Micrometer Troika AniCam (Flexo Plate QC) Process Description Verify thermal processing reaches back exposure, determining relief. … Read More...
What's in a name? It seems like everywhere you turn, you hear the phrase Hybrid Digital Flexo, Digital Hybrid Flexo, Flexo Hybrid or some other combination... Are they all the same or is each phrase unique? In the Flexographic industry, the terms are essentially the same—however the products can vary greatly. Any phrase using the words … Read More...
EskoWorld 2017 Each year, we look forward to attending EskoWorld (Esko's user conference) to share ideas and bring our customers news of the latest innovations! This year didn't disappoint! There are many new features coming soon that will directly benefit the flexographic market, specifically those making plates. Post-RIP Scum Dot Removal Scum dots are small image … Read More...
It's May 9th, first day of EskoWorld 2017 with more than 500 Esko users in attendance! Esko's President, Udo Panenka, opened with an overview of Esko's Vision. Esko has been with Danaher for more then 6 years as part of the growing Product Identification Group. During this time X-rite, Pantone, VideoJet and Laetus have joined this group and … Read More...
A common misconception in water based ink cleaning is the thought that to be effective it would need to have a high pH and thus, be hazardous to the user or equipment. In reality there are two parts for these cleaners to be effective, pH and alkalinity. The alkalinity levels in these cleaners is what causes … Read More...
Our Technical Solutions Group (TSG) is often contacted by photopolymer platemakers reporting an inconsistent floor. Typically, they measure the lamp output with a UV-A meter and see that the exposure bed is fairly consistent. They don't understand why early in the day things seem to be fine, but as several exposure cycles are performed, the … Read More...
Clarifying the Facts for G7® or NNC G7® (also called Near Neutral Calibration, NNC) is not a new term and I am sure many already have at least a basic understanding of what it is, but in my discussions with individuals and companies I still encounter some confusion on the true meaning and application for G7®. To simplify … Read More...
Your doctor blade and end seal are an important part of your ink metering system. Most printers would agree that the effectiveness of your doctor blade is critical to your print quality and ultimately your success with your customers. The efficiency and longevity of the doctor blade and the containment blade ultimately lead to more run time between … Read More...
While safety is always at the top of our customer's priority list, often OSHA rules and regulations are not so clear-cut to some of our customer's or at least the individuals working in the production environment. Generally speaking it is APR's focus to provide new innovative ideas and products to make the printers life easier, more … Read More...
Are synthetic doctor blades a viable option to replace your steel doctor blades? The answer is quite simply YES. Synthetic is safe, reliable, greatly reduces anilox scoring and increases longevity compared to many steel options. Don’t be fooled, this is a premium blade with a precision edge that is available in any tip configuration, capable … Read More...