The modern world has changed every aspect of mankind so the revolution in the field of flexographic printing is remarkable. This change is at the core of the enhancement of flexo printing plates that have enhanced label quality and productivity. This article focuses on the history of flexo printing plate, the changes that have occurred in the technology, and the impact of the change on the label printing industry.
The Eary Development of Flexo Printing
As time passed things changed in this regard during the early stages of the development of flexographic printing, rubber plates were the most preferred materials to create images and text. These rubber plates were quite secure and could be bent and twisted but they were not very clear and precise in terms of images. Photopolymer plates are preferred by everyone these days. Rubber plates lack the level of detail and quality of images found on photopolymer plates, which are composed of a light-sensitive polymer.
Technological Advancements in Plate Making
The technology utilized in the production of plates has also advanced recently. The initial techniques for creating plates required a great deal of manual labor and took a long period. Better engraving technologies, like electronic engraving and laser engraving machines, have been utilized by industry today.
Electronic Engraving Machines
These machines use electronically controlled diamond styluses to create the cells required for printing with precision. The final output is a very clear and sharp printed material that does not distort the original image.
Laser Engraving Machines
Laser technology has greatly improved the accuracy of flexo-printing plates. With extreme precision and detail, laser engraving machines engrave the desired designs on the plates using laser beams.
The Impact on Label Printing
The label printing industry has been greatly impacted by the advancement of flexo printing plates. Here are a few significant ways that these developments have changed the sector.
Enhanced Efficiency
Technological advancement in plate making has enabled the development of labels with less time and energy as compared to the past. Automated systems have replaced manual interferences and mistakes, hence enhancing the efficiency of the systems.
Greater Flexibility
The current flexo printing plates are very flexible and can work with different substrates such as films, foils, and paper among others. This flexibility helps the company to manufacture different labels from simple product labels.
Cost-Effectiveness
While it is expensive to purchase the new plate-making technology, the total cost is low in the long run. There is no need for replacement, which assists in reducing wastage and rework on labels thereby reducing costs.
Flexo Printing Plates: The Future
The future of flexo printing plates is therefore promising as technology continues to advance. It is believed that future advancements in the material of the plates, the engraving technique, and the touch screen will enhance the efficiency of flexo printing. The industry will continue to evolve and will offer even more opportunities for the development of new and qualitative labels.
Conclusion
The revolution in flexo printing plates has created a new shift in the label printing industry. These changes have included the change from rubber to photopolymer plates to the use of the latest engraving technologies that have improved the quality, speed, and flexibility of the prints. As the industry grows, flexo printing plates will continue to be an important aspect in the growth of label printing.