By: Hybrid Software

(Ghent, Belgium) Hybrid Software, developer of innovative productivity tools for packaging and label printing, is pleased to announce support for Canon’s upcoming LabelStream LS2000 digital label press*. 

Version 10 of Hybrid Software’s PACKZ all-in-one PDF editor for packaging prepress supports the direct interface to the LabelStream LS2000 digital press. PACKZ 10, as well as the full portfolio of Hybrid Software solutions for labels and packaging, will be on display in Booth 3015 at Labelexpo Americas, held Sept. 10-12 in Rosemont, IL.

Hybrid Software had previously worked with Canon to automate the workflow for Canon’s first-generation label press, the LabelStream LS4000. The direct interface for the upcoming LabelStream LS2000 press was co-developed by Hybrid Software to Canon’s specification and supports features of the new press. By integrating the interface directly into PACKZ, the LabelStream LS2000 can be driven directly by operators who have Version 10 of PACKZ that are in use worldwide. There are currently 6,000 copies of PACKZ.

Patrick Coussement, CTO of Hybrid Software, comments, “PACKZ serves two key roles in prepress for labels and packaging. Operators first edit the PDF artwork representing a single one-up label to make sure that the colors are mapped correctly to the printing inks, bleeds and technical marks are correct, variable data fields are linked, and to make any other changes required for outstanding output. Next, a step-and-repeat layout is applied to the one-up label to create a print-ready PDF file that maximizes coverage of the substrate and fits the artwork correctly to downstream cutting dies and finishing equipment. It’s a natural extension of PACKZ to support direct output to the LabelStream LS2000 press, and an efficient workflow for our mutual customers.”

“We are excited to preview the capabilities of the upcoming LabelStream LS2000 inkjet press that can help meet the ever-changing demands for digital, high-quality label converting,” said Shinichi “Sam” Yoshida, executive vice president and general manager, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “We look forward to Labelexpo Americas and demonstrating how our products can contribute towards efficient and versatile label production.”

For more information about PACKZ and other Hybrid Software solutions visit: www.hybridsoftware.com.

*This product is currently under development and not available for sale or use in the Americas. Specifications and features may change and no assurances can be given that this solution, in the current or any other form, will be made available for sale or use in the Americas. This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.

About Hybrid Software

Through its operating subsidiaries, Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) is a leading developer of enterprise software for industrial print manufacturing. Customers include press manufacturers such as HP, Canon, Durst, Roland, Hymmen, and hundreds of packaging printers, trade shops, and converters worldwide.

Hybrid Software is headquartered in Cambridge UK. Its subsidiary companies are color technology experts ColorLogic, printing software developers Global Graphics Software, enterprise software developer HYBRID Software, 3D design and modelling software developers iC3D, the industrial printhead driver solutions specialists, Meteor Inkjet and pre-press workflow developer Xitron.

By: Asahi Photoproducts

New water recycling system, combined with CrystalCleanConnect, underscores NABEPROCESS’s dedication to pioneering eco-balanced practices and sets a new benchmark for sustainable manufacturing processes

Tokyo, Japan & Brussels, Belgium, September 10, 2024. Asahi Photoproducts, a pioneer in flexographic photopolymer plate development, a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei, today reported that NABEPROCESS Co., Ltd., a major Japanese printing company and one of the first companies in the world to install CrystalCleanConnect, has advanced its sustainability initiatives even further by adding an Asahi AWP-LOOP™ water recycling system to its CrystalCleanConnect configuration. CrystalCleanConnect is an offering jointly developed by Asahi Photoproducts, ESKO, and Kongsberg that automates the flexographic platemaking process, reducing steps from 12 to 1 and dramatically reducing potential for error. The system produces flexographic plates ready for mounting on press.

“The Asahi AWP-LOOP™ system represents a state-of-the-art solution that facilitates the recycling and reuse of water in the plate-making process, drastically reducing environmental impact, said Mr. Yasuo Naka, Flexography Division Manager, NABEPROCESS Co., Ltd. “This strategic move aligns with our commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency. Over several months the system has been operational, we have seen a reduction in water usage of about 50% and an overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. We have also seen savings in our waste treatment fees. We are now in a position to phase out solvent-based plate production entirely, reducing our carbon footprint even further.”

In this configuration, NABEPROCESS  is using Asahi’s AWP™ water-washable plates in conjunction with CrystalCleanConnect which automates platemaking and reduces overall time to market. Mr. Naka adds, “We are using the AWP-LOOP™ system once a day on average, working in harmony with CrystalCleanConnect. We engage the LOOP system after a half day of platemaking with CrystalCleanConnect to treat the processing water. By reducing the need for outsourced wastewater treatment, we have achieved significant cost savings.”

“This is a great example of a company that is taking advantage of Asahi’s innovative approach to flexographic platemaking, increasing efficiency, sustainability, and quality while reducing time to market, all critical elements in today’s highly competitive marketplace,” added Arata Ohnoko, Marketing and Sales Manager at Asahi Kasei.

NABEPROCESS has also been pleased with the installation, calibration, and training that took place upon receiving the AWP-LOOP™ system, as well as previous and ongoing support of its CrystalCleanConnect system, including both remote and on-site support, preventative maintenance, and more.

For more information about products and services from Asahi Photoproducts, visit us at www.asahi-photoproducts.com or email hello@asahi-photoproducts.com.

About Asahi Photoproducts

Founded in 1973, Asahi Photoproducts is a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Corp., which has a century of operating history. Asahi Photoproducts is a leading pioneer in the development of photopolymer flexo printing plates. By creating high-quality flexographic solutions through continued innovation, the company aims to drive printing forward in harmony with the environment. More information is available at www.asahi-photoproducts.com.

By: EFI

EFI’s broad portfolio of printers for the display graphics, packaging, and textile markets delivers brilliant quality, innovative functionality, and a clear path to profitability

LONDONDERRY, NH, September 10, 2024 – Electronics For Imaging, Inc. today reported it is exhibiting its newest production-level digital inkjet printers, and displaying brilliant applications and samples produced from their broad portfolio of sign and display graphics, packaging, and textile printers at the PRINTING United Expo, running September 10-12 in Las Vegas. EFI™ is in booth SL7005 at the show.

“We’re happy to be back at the PRINTING United Expo again this year, the premier printing show in the United States,” said Frank Pennisi, EFI’s CEO. “This year, we’re announcing the debut of two brand-new printers alongside several new innovations that impressed crowds at drupa and other events earlier this summer. This show enables us to reconnect face-to-face with customers and partners and reaffirm our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We’re here to deliver innovation that sharpens our customers’ competitive edge, enabling them to increase productivity, drive efficiencies into their processes, lower costs, and grow profit margins.”

Visitors to EFI’s booths will see live demonstrations of its latest innovations for sign and display graphics producers and learn how they can turn these new, disruptive capabilities into opportunities. Two brand-new printers will be on display in EFI’s booth:

·        The 3.2-meter EFI VUTEk® M3h hybrid flatbed/roll-fed LED printer designed for print providers looking to make the move to higher-volume, production-level printing to reduce costs, increase margins, turn jobs faster, and differentiate their offerings with new substrates and/or applications at a lower cost.

·        The 3.5-meter EFI VUTEk X3r roll-to-roll LED printer, engineered for high-volume production of a wide range of indoor and outdoor sign and display applications, combines carefully integrated automation, software, and hardware to support full-shift unattended printing, deliver a complete print-to-finished-graphic workflow system, and take image quality at production-level speeds to a new level.

EFI will also be exhibiting the VUTEk Q3h XP printer at its booth. This high-speed hybrid flatbed/roll-fed LED printer offers exceptional imaging quality, flexible production-level throughput, and advanced media handling and automation options, making it a perfect solution for businesses looking to address current labor challenges and cost-reduction initiatives.

“Visitors to our booth will also see examples of innovative and unique applications made possible by our industry-leading technologies for the packaging, sign and display, and textile markets,” said Ken Hanulec, EFI vice president, worldwide marketing. “This includes samples produced by EFI Nozomi single-pass digital inkjet and EFI VUTEk printers, which deliver super-high speeds and high-quality imaging for the packaging and sign and display markets. We have something on display to inspire everyone.”

New EFI Wide Format Pro+ printers designed for business growth

Several of EFI’s preferred partners are exhibiting EFI Wide Format printers in their booths, including the new EFI Pro 16h+ hybrid LED printer and EFI Pro 30f+ flatbed LED printer, which deliver high-quality imaging at production-level speeds and even more printing capabilities – all with a low total cost of ownership (TCO). The EFI Pro+ printers, featuring new high-performance EFI ProGraphics+™ Series LED-curable inks, raise the bar for entry-level, wide-format production-level printing.

EFI partners demonstrating EFI Wide Format Pro Series printers include LexJet (booth SL5017), Nazdar SourceOne (booth SL10112) and Reece Supply Company (booth SL10136) – all featuring the EFI Pro 16h+ printer. Nazdar will also be showing the EFI Pro 30f+ flatbed LED printer, and Ricoh USA (booth C2161) will be exhibiting the EFI Pro 30h hybrid flatbed/roll-fed LED printer.

“We have a powerful line-up at PRINTING United Expo this year and we are looking forward to showing how our latest innovations can not only positively impact our customers’ growth and profitability but also their sustainability goals,” Pennisi added.

To learn more about EFI’s portfolio of innovative digital inkjet products and support services, visit www.EFI.com. 

About EFI 

EFI™ is a global technology company, leading the worldwide transformation from analog to digital imaging. We understand our customers want breakthrough technologies to lead them through their digital journey. That’s why we’re passionate about driving their business growth with a scalable portfolio of products, solutions, services, support, and world-class partnerships for the manufacturing of signage, packaging, textiles, ceramic tiles, and building materials with a wide range of printers and inks. They work together to increase profits, cut costs, improve productivity, and optimize efficiency – job after job, year after year. We are devoted to our customers. And we definitely believe we have the right people, technology and experience to help them achieve their business goals.

By: IST America

Shorewood, Illinois, September 9, 2024 – IST America (ISTA), a global leader in UV and LED light curing technology, is pleased to announce its participation in the upcoming National Coil Coating Association (NCCA) Fall Technical Meeting, taking place September 23 – 25 in Chicago, IL. Chris Davis, Head of Sales for IST America, will present “Utilizing UV & LED Technology in Coil Coating,” showcasing cutting-edge advancements in the industry.

Chris Davis’ presentation will explore the transformative benefits of UV and LED curing technology for the coil coating sector. These technologies offer several key advantages, including faster curing times, reduced space requirements, and significant energy savings compared to traditional thermal ovens. UV and LED solutions enable coil coaters to enhance productivity while achieving high-quality finishes in an environmentally friendly manner with reduced carbon footprints.

“UV and LED technology represent a game-changer for coil coaters, providing unparalleled speed and efficiency while significantly lowering energy consumption,” said Chris Davis. “We’re excited to share how IST’s innovations can help manufacturers not only improve their bottom line but also make strides toward sustainability.”

The presentation will cover real-world applications of UV and LED technology, including the use of UV-curable primers and topcoats for galvanized steel, aluminum claddings, and other materials. By utilizing these advanced systems, coaters can achieve superior surface finishes, increased line speeds, and energy efficiency, all while eliminating the need for cooling processes or high-temperature curing ovens. Chris will also highlight the role of IST’s hybrid UV-LED systems in achieving matte surfaces and how excimer technology enhances product aesthetics and functionality.

ABOUT IST AMERICA

IST America is the North American arm of IST Metz in Nurtingen Germany. IST has been long known as the Global Leader in premium UV Curing solutions. Their systems include LEDCure, Traditional LAMPCure, Low Energy, Excimer, and Hybrid UV technology for sheetfed, wide web, narrow web, digital, and industrial applications. IST America provides system sales, service, parts, and application support for the North American market to OEM manufacturers and end users for new equipment as well as retrofit opportunities. IST America is located in Shorewood, Il. For more information visit: www.ist-uv.com/en-us

By: Mark Andy

Chesterfield, MO (September 9, 2024) –  Mark Andy, a leading provider of label and print solutions, and Domino Printing Sciences (Domino), the global expert in advanced digital printing and variable data solutions, are proud to showcase their ongoing collaboration with the launch of the 1200dpi DSiQ-730 hybrid press at this year’s Labelexpo Americas. This partnership is a testament to both companies’ dedication to driving innovation in hybrid printing technology, providing converters with high-performance, automated solutions to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

For several years, Mark Andy and Domino have combined their expertise to offer state-of-the-art hybrid printing systems. These systems enable converters to benefit from the versatility of digital printing, including variable data and customization, while maximizing efficiency by integrating flexographic and digital technologies into a single process. This combined approach allows for producing high-quality labels in a single pass, improving workflow and reducing production times.

“Hybrid printing is transforming the industry, and the efficiencies of single-pass technology are precisely what our customers are looking for. Our partnership with Domino exemplifies our commitment to providing innovative hybrid printing solutions that meet the needs of our customers,” said Duane Pekar, CEO of Mark Andy. “The introduction of the DSiQ-730 reinforces our focus on delivering high-quality, efficient hybrid presses that offer the automation and precision our converters expect.”

A Mark Andy Digital iQ Series hybrid press featuring the DSiQ-R digital retrofit module will be in Mark Andy’s booth #319 at Labelexpo Americas, with live demonstrations daily from September 10–12, 2024.

About Mark Andy Inc.

Mark Andy is a pioneer of the graphic arts and printing industry. As the world’s leading manufacturer of narrow- and mid-web printing and finishing equipment, it supplies leading global brands, including Mark Andy and Presstek printing presses, Rotoflex finishing solutions, as well as a complete line of Mark Andy Print Products consumables and pressroom supplies. All products are backed by the largest customer support team in the industry, minimizing downtime and helping customers be profitable, efficient and at the forefront of innovation. Mark Andy does what it takes to understand each customer’s unique business, the challenges they face and the pressures they feel. It strives to provide products and services that help customers solve their problems and solutions that go a step further, allowing them to excel in their day-to-day operations, ultimately increasing productivity and reaching their full potential. For more information, visit www.markandy.com.

By: Mark Andy

Chesterfield, MO – (September 10, 2024) – Mark Andy is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking milestone in digital label printing at Labelexpo 2024. The unveiling of the Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200 sets a new industry standard, doubling the speed of its predecessors at 1200dpi resolution, solidifying its position as the fastest narrow web digital press in the marketplace.

Running at an unprecedented 480 feet per minute, the Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200 boosts productivity by maintaining resolution above 1200dpi, delivering full-color variable data printing (VDP) and holding the tightest tolerances in print-to-print and print-to-die registration. This state-of-the-art press is powered by Mark Andy’s new ProWORX Digital Front End (DFE), which delivers additional productivity by streamlining prepress workflow and color management. 

“We’re incredibly excited about this technological breakthrough,” states Mark Andy CEO Duane Pekar. “The market is asking for greater digital press speeds and efficiencies. We listened, and we delivered. The HighSpeed 1200 is not just two times faster, it does so without compromising quality and capability. Available in hybrid or roll-to-roll formats, the new opportunities this technological advancement creates for converters are substantial. Our customers’ growth is our growth, and we’re looking forward to showing the market this new digital technology at Labelexpo.”

Key features of the Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200 include:

• High Productivity: Print more labels per shift with speeds up to 480 fpm.
• Advanced VDP Capabilities: Achieve high-speed variable data printing with unrivaled precision.
• Expanded Color Gamut: Options include CMYKOV or CMYKOVG for vibrant, accurate color reproduction.
• Shorter ROI: This press offers the shortest return on investment (ROI) in the digital label press market.

Mark Andy will be hosting live demonstrations of the Digital Series HD HighSpeed 1200 at Labelexpo 2024 at the following times each day of the show:

• 10:00 AM
• 11:00 AM
• 2:30 PM
• 4:00 PM

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the future of digital label printing in action.​​​​​​

By: Grupo Gráfico

Kennesaw, Ga. September 9, 2024 – Grupo Gráfico Romo (Romo GNM), one of Latin America’s leading commercial and packaging printers, set two new world records during August 2024. In its facility outside of Mexico City, Romo GNM produced 2,483,461 sheets in a full week (168 hours) and 9,515,613 sheets in one month (31 consecutive days). Both records were set using its Speedmaster XL 106-8P+L from Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), which prints at 18,000 sheets per hour and was recently installed in April. 

Unparalleled Value Through the Whole Supply Chain 

From high-end retail catalogs to luxury specialty folding cartons, Romo GNM offers comprehensive turnkey solutions for every aspect of its clients’ creative, printing, and fulfillment needs. The company boasts four main business units – catalogs/commercial printing, packaging/folding carton, wide format digital/point of purchase, and fulfillment – and offers impressive in-house services ranging from product photography and graphic and structural design through to complete print, finishing, and mailing. 

“We ensure a creative collaboration that delivers true effectiveness for our clients,” said Elías Sidauy, CEO, Grupo Gráfico Romo-GNM. “We deliver unparalleled value through the whole supply chain and brand consistency across multiple print platforms and finishing processes.”

Beyond its extensive range of services, Romo GNM distinguishes itself as the region’s leading printer by consistently delivering the highest quality and best value products for its customers. Earlier this year, the company installed an eight-color Speedmaster XL 106 perfecting press with coater from HEIDELBERG. The machine was specifically designed to optimize production of catalogs, a core segment of Romo GNM’s business. It was also selected for its flexibility and capability to produce high-quality folding cartons, which the company intends to manufacture on the press outside its peak catalog production season.

“The Speedmaster XL 106 enables us to be competitive in this new world of printing – helping us to be more efficient and live up to the high standards of today’s customers regarding pricing, quality, and faster turnaround times,” said Sidauy.

When the press was installed earlier this year, Romo GNM partnered with consultant Anthony Thirlby to optimize its production processes. Together, they implemented a true “Push to Stop” approach from prepress to press to postpress, eliminating human touchpoints wherever possible. Developing these standard operating procedures allows the business to produce with the lowest operating cost per sheet and with the highest commercial return. In its first month of production, the XL 106 produced over 6,000,000 sheets.

“It’s so easy to only focus on whatever current job is running on press,” said Sidauy, “but we also need to be properly prepared for the next ten jobs to ensure minimal disruption to output levels and maintain a consistent level of skill and performance.” 

Record Breaking Production

During its peak catalog production season, Romo GNM successfully produced a world record 9,515,613 sheets in one month (31 consecutive days) – producing 2,483,461 sheets during one of those weeks (168 hours), which is another world first. The company produced 179 different jobs and performed 1688 plate changes throughout its record-breaking run with an average run length of 53,160 sheets. All jobs were perfected and produced using four different stocks and three different sheet sizes with weights ranging from 90 gsm to 150 gsm.

Thanks to the press’s superior sheet transfer system, Romo GNM consistently ran at top press speeds of 18,000 sheets per hour with only one operator and one press helper per shift. Additionally, with the Speedmaster XL 106’s advanced Push to Stop technology, processes intelligently start on their own, so the operator only interrupts when necessary. The Push to Stop job sequencing enabled highly optimized batching, resulting in peak operational performance. Equipped with Prinect Inpress Control 3, HEIDELBERG’s industry-leading inline spectrophotometer, Romo GNM averaged 42 makeready sheets per job – maintaining consistent color, high quality, and minimal waste throughout the entire 31 days.

Sidauy proudly stated, “Our entire team – from our prepress technicians to the press operators and helpers – was part of this great achievement. They understand the Push to Stop technology and methodology, and they’ve been committed from the start to making this journey with us as a company.”

“Many congratulations to everyone at Grupo Gráfico Romo,” said Andrés Gálvez, Managing Director for HEIDELBERG Mexico. “This feat was only possible thanks to their unwavering commitment to process optimization, guided by the expertise of Anthony Thirlby.”

Romo GNM also boasts four other offset presses in production, including a Speedmaster CX 104 and Speedmaster CD 102. Its Speedmaster CX 104 is a state-of-the-art UV machine dedicated to printing the company’s specialized folding cartons. Now that its Speedmaster XL 106 is running at the optimum level of productivity, Romo GNM intends to implement similar process optimization procedures in its folding carton production. 

Overall, Sidauy stated the advanced intelligence of Speedmaster presses, combined with the improvements to Romo GNM’s production practices, will help his company win more jobs. “We can give better prices along with higher quality because we are faster in the changing of a job, in the adjustment of the machine, in how many waste sheets we need to set up the machine.”

He concluded, “I think it’s too soon to quantify its magnitude, but the high level of productivity we’ve been able to achieve on the Speedmaster XL 106 is a gamechanger. Now that we understand our capabilities, we have a significant opportunity to expand the business.”

*After measurement by HEIDELBERG

About Grupo Gráfico Romo 

Grupo Gráfico Romo-GNM offers graphic products and services, manufactured with high quality standards. Over the years, the company has proudly garnered the trust and loyalty of countless customers because its products are built with quality materials and the latest technologies to meet the highest industry standards. Among the top five printers in Latin America and the top ten worldwide, Grupo Gráfico Romo has positioned itself as a benchmark in the Graphic Arts Industry, including packaging, catalogs, magazines, and customized displays. It is distinguished by the high level of commitment, quality, and attention given to its customers and business partners, seeking to enhance their sales and their brand.

By: EFI

ORLANDO, Sept. 9, 2024 – Electronics For Imaging, Inc., the leader in digital inkjet technologies for corrugated packaging and display production, is showcasing the winning production capabilities of its versatile industrial inkjet portfolio at the 2024 AICC/TAPPI SuperCorrExpo in Orlando. With its broad range of preferred solutions, EFI™ continues to push the boundaries of industrial digital printing to help independent sheet plants, box manufacturers, and integrated paper and packaging producers drive greater efficiency, sustainability and profitability.

Leading the Way in Inkjet Innovation for Corrugated Packaging

EFI stands out as the only company to offer both water-based and UV ink solutions for digital corrugated packaging printing, and the company’s packaging experts are at hand in booth #2711 to discuss breakthrough solutions such as the popular 1.4-meter-wide EFI Nozomi 14000 LED inkjet printer, as well as EFI’s new Nozomi 14000 AQ model featuring water-based inks. 

EFI, in partnership with Packsize^®, has also developed the groundbreaking X5® Nozomi, an on-demand, full-color LED inkjet, right-sized box system. This first of its kind solution creates printed, custom-sized corrugated packaging in real time, changing the rules of manufacturing efficiency for packaging producers, ecommerce companies and third-party logistics providers.

EFI’s innovations are backed by two decades of expertise in industrial digital printing. With eight generations of single-pass technology and over 60 Nozomi printer installations completed worldwide, the company has a proven track record of delivering reliable, high-performance solutions.

Expanding Beyond Single-pass Technology

EFI is not only a leader in single-pass technology, but also excels in multi-pass inkjet technologies, including new solutions like the superwide-format EFI VUTEk^® Q3h XP hybrid flatbed/roll-to-roll UV LED inkjet printer that can deliver premium-quality, short-run corrugated display and packaging jobs, along with many other types of graphics applications. 

“The success of EFI and our digital printing product lines stems from more than just advanced technology; it’s our deep understanding of customer needs that sets us apart,” said EFI CEO Frank Pennisi. “We don’t just provide products —we deliver complete solutions with the equipment, inks, primers, software, and services to successfully guide corrugated packaging providers through their digital transformation.”

EFI’s digital printing technology offers significant benefits, including market differentiation, faster job turnarounds, and enhanced customer relationships. Research by IT Strategies confirms that EFI customers with Nozomi print technology have been able to generate new business, expand into new segments, offer higher-margin applications, and provide better overall service.

In addition to the quality and flexibility of its digital inkjet printing solutions, EFI’s technology helps businesses increase total plant capacity by freeing up printing equipment capacity.

SuperCorrExpo visitors to the EFI booth can explore how their innovative digital solutions can empower businesses to achieve greater efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. To learn more about EFI’s wide range of digital inkjet products and services for corrugated packaging and displays, visit www.efi.com.

About EFI 

EFI™ is a global technology company, leading the worldwide transformation from analog to digital imaging. We understand our customers want breakthrough technologies to lead them through their digital journey. That’s why we’re passionate about driving their business growth with a scalable portfolio of products, solutions, services, support, and world-class partnerships for the manufacturing of signage, packaging, textiles, ceramic tiles, and building materials with a wide range of printers and inks. They work together to increase profits, cut costs, improve productivity, and optimize efficiency – job after job, year after year. We are devoted to our customers. And we definitely believe we have the right people, technology and experience to help them achieve their business goals.

By: XSYS

Carminati S.r.l. has reaffirmed its strong confidence in XSYS’ plate processing technology with the installation of a second ThermoFlexX Catena Washer, Dryer, Light-Finisher, and Stacker (WDLS) in less than two years. The Italian prepress expert has worked closely with XSYS to maximize the potential of this innovative technology and deliver the highest quality flexo plates to its customers.

Willstaett, Germany. 09 September 2024 – Operating mainly in the corrugated sector, Carminati is a leader in its field. Located in Antegnate, east of Milan in northern Italy, the progressive company makes flexographic printing plates for customers across Italy, into France and beyond. The plates are produced on two state-of-the-art lines at its 5000 sqm modern plant, where 35 staff work tirelessly to maintain the company’s well-established reputation for high quality and excellent customer support.

Doubling up with second Catena-WDLS

In 2021, Carminati decided it was time to replace one of its outdated plate processing lines with a ThermoFlexX Catena-WDLS to ensure continued growth and enhance quality even further. The new equipment was installed by XSYS Italia at the end of that year. Less than two years later, a second Catena-WDLS has been introduced to upgrade the other processing line, giving the company a total capacity uplift of over 20%.

“Our old processing equipment had served us well, but it was time to upgrade to ensure we stay ahead of the curve. Not only do we serve our customers with the best plates for printing every day, but we also have a very active R&D laboratory, allowing us to continue innovating and lead the way in flexo printing for corrugated boxes and flexible packaging,” said CEO Carlo Carminati, son Alessandro Carminati, who founded the company in 1960.

Carminati is known for its forward-looking strategy and keen interest in pushing the boundaries with the latest technology. “We successfully installed the very first Catena-WDLS in Italy not very long ago, and now we are the first in the world to have two. This impressive setup from XSYS means we are moving to Industry 4.0 level with higher automation, best-in-class quality, faster delivery, and more sustainable operation.”

Sustainable and automated technology

ThermoFlexX Catena-WDLS integrates washing, drying, light-finishing, and stacking into one smooth process. The operator simply loads the imaged plate at the start using a pinbar system and then collects the print-ready version at the other end. This high level of automation brings numerous benefits, including reduced waste, faster processing, and exceptional quality. In addition, the system is very energy efficient, helping Carminati to reach its sustainability targets. For instance, the company reports a reduction in drying time per plate of 30 minutes compared to the old system.  

The Catena-WDLS is controlled by a ThermoFlexX Graphic User Interface (GUI) displayed on an HD touch-screen for rapid and straightforward operation. All key information is clearly presented, ensuring operators can navigate the system effortlessly, with minimal risk of errors. For Carminati, these aspects fit perfectly with its commitment to Industry 4.0 production where human intervention is minimized, and each process is digitalized so the production data can be analyzed.

Advanced washing method

The first Catena-WDLS was chosen after thorough consideration of the options available on the market. Offering the highest productivity, it uses unique plate alignment when loading which avoids plate skew during transport, and an incremental mode of washing where each plate progresses through the system at a constant speed.

Working closely with the XSYS Italia team, Carminati has further developed the technology, meaning the second WDLS employs a high-productivity batch mode of washing that is ideal when various plate thicknesses need to be processed. Both methods consistently guarantee sharp, clean print.

“The Catena-WDLS is the best on the market, in particular, its softer brush technology is perfect for our sensitive plates with microcell screening. For the second machine, we collaborated with XSYS to improve the productivity of the system, so it fits our special requirements exactly. This means that the loading time has been reduced and output is faster, giving us a great advantage,” explained Mr Carminati.

Collaboration for success and more growth

The other half of the equation when investing in new equipment concerns the service and support provided by the manufacturer or supplier. XSYS Italia prides itself on its close proximity to customers, which is seamlessly complemented by the remote capabilities of the Catena equipment itself.

“The collaboration between XSYS and Carminati is very positive and productive. We are extremely proud to support them in achieving the best possible quality in flexo platemaking,” stated XSYS Italia Sales Manager Roberto Malagù. “Close partnerships are essential to success and we look forward to continuing our work with Carminati, which is a trailblazer in this market.”  

“The working relationship with XSYS is excellent and I cannot fault the service from the team. Their assistance is always prompt and efficient. We have also used the remote service many times and it works very well, saving a lot of time for us and out customers,” added Mr Carminati.

He summed up the company’s position, concluding, “Our Catena-WDLS duo will allow us to reach our ambitious goals and help customers achieve excellent quality, higher sustainability, and faster time to market. This project is an instrumental part of our growth strategy and we are now fully equipped to stand at the frontline and disrupt this competitive market.”

About XSYS

Headquartered in Willstaett, Germany, XSYS operates globally and remains one of the largest suppliers offering both flexographic and letterpress prepress solutions, including plates, sleeves, processors, workflow solutions, and expert professional services, designed to help these industries move forward with increasing innovation, improved productivity and profitability, and a reduced environmental footprint.

In recognizing our endeavor to bring more brilliance into the packaging industry – into the lives of our customers and colleagues – XSYS has achieved a Gold Medal rating from EcoVadis for its sustainability. This distinction goes beyond our commitment to protecting the environment by also evaluating our dedication to social responsibility, diversity, and human rights.

The broad XSYS portfolio comprises some of the industry’s best-known brands of consumables (nyloflex® and nyloprint® plates), plate processing equipment (Xpress, ThermoFlexX, and Catena), surface screening software (Woodpecker), plate mounting (rotec®), and washout solvents (nylosolv®).