India-based Veepee Graphics has invested in the Digital Flexo Suite (DFS) and a Kongsberg X20 cutting table from Esko.
The Belgium-based Esko says that the combination of its flexo software and specialized output device facilitates automation of the plate layout and design. It also allows for the precision cutting of the plates in unique ways for the customers of Veepee Graphics across all its three flexo markets.
Veepee Graphics offers pre-press and digitally imaged flexographic plates to the major printers and converters in the label, flexible packaging and corrugated industries.
According to Esko, the DFS software enables a user to create an overall design and die lines of corrugated boxes where the areas that need flexo printing are precisely defined and are plotted accurately.
The Kongsberg X20 cutting table is utilized to output the die lines on a Mylar sheet and also for defining the decorative text and image areas.
Post imaging, the flexo plate pieces are cut precisely with beveled edges to make sure that there is no build-up of ink on the leading edges during printing.
Esko claims that with such efficiency in design that accomodate the large unprinted areas of a corrugated box, Veepee is able to provide plates to corrugators at a reduced cost than before. This has saved them a lot of time in production of die lines and plate mounting.
Veepee managing director Jai Chandra said: “With precision and automated cutting of the plate edges the risk of damaging the plate by hand cutting is eliminated and the plate mounting is made much easier.
“The CI flexo presses run more smoothly with reduced or zero bounce from the plate edges. Our investment in the Kongsberg X20 has allowed us to offer a value-addition to our customers where we cut the plate with special radial edges free of charge for them.”
Image: Esko’s DFS and Kongsberg X20 cutting table. Photo: courtesy of Esko-Graphics bvba.