Tresu has introduced a light, fast-change inking system to improve process efficiency in narrow-web flexo printing.
The FlexiPrint Reservoir SAVEink chamber doctor blade can be used for narrow-web UV and water-based flexo applications that can be used without an ink pump.
Tresu's patented seals will help air-tight chambers to avoid leakage. They can be deployed or removed safely in five seconds without the risk of spilling ink.
The operator locks the unit to the anilox roll to introduce it to its mounting. It will be rotated from a six-o’clock to a nine-o’clock position. Removal reverses the process.
When the doctor blades are in pre-set position and there is no need for further adjustment. This pre-set position will make sure that optimal anilox contact with minimal wear. An automatic indicator will show when the blade needs replacement, reducing wastage of time with unnecessary checks.
The chamber can also hold between 250ml and 2000ml of ink, which is claimed to be an ideal way for application of normal and spot colours along with high risk transfer printing. Ink can be added manually without stopping the press, adding to the system’s flexibility for long and short run production.
As the chambers are sealed, the risk of ink contamination is claimed to have been eliminated, while an optimal pressure is maintained to ensure foam-free printing and an even ink coverage across the web.
The chamber can also maintain precise inking even at the high speeds that are demanded by narrow-web printers. These chambers are available in widths up to 800mma and the can be fitted to almost any narrow web press.
When being used with manual filling, the chambers can be removed and sealed so that the ink can be reused. As the unit has a single compartment, manual cleaning is fast and easy.
Printers with optional pump system have the advantage of precise flow control along with the ability to return unused ink to the bucket.
Tresu Ancillary vice president Henrik Kristensen said: “With shorter runs and faster turnarounds, label converters are under increased competitive pressure to eliminate waste. Tresu’s single-component SAVEink system makes an attractive option for an efficient label printing workflow, with its fast setup times, minimal maintenance requirements and capability for consistent quality at high speed.
“With a short return on investment, the benefits of our chamber doctor blades are a viable and value-adding alternative to investing in a new press.”
Image: Tresus new SAVEink chamber. Photo: Courtesy of TRESU GROUP.