As a natural extension to its range of offset CTP products, CRON-Europe introduced its new flexo CTP device at LABELEXPO in Brussels.
With many of the features of its sister offset products, which now total over 3000 machines sold, the new FX-36 Flexo offers an alternative route into digital flexo plate production. Cron says its high resolution of up to 6000 dpi and excellent dot quality make the FX36 ideal for a number of flexo applications from labels to blue-chip cosmetic packaging.
According to Derek Sizer, Regional Director, CRON-Europe, “With our latest CRON CTP devices we have focused on exceptional quality and high value. These improvements have been applied to our new FX36 which can deliver an exceptional on-plate tonal range. Our high level of dot accuracy means that flexo printers will be able to compete for packaging work that was normally considered the domain of offset and gravure.”
Cron claims the advantages of the FX36 are best understood by a review of the advanced technology which is present at every stage of plate production. Firstly, a new pneumatic plate handling system ensures smooth transfer of flexo plates into the imaging system. The plate handling has been designed specifically to handle the thicker flexo plates (up to 4mm) with fault-free and fast operation.
The FX36 then uses the latest linear magnetic drive scanning system to deliver the accuracy required for high resolution exposure up to 6000 dpi. Friction free, it eliminates imaging issues often experienced with other alternatives
“The improvements to the exposure system do not stop there,” states Sizer. “The imaging head itself has also been redesigned to incorporate liquid cooling and the shortest possible path between the lasers and the plate surface. These features deliver the stability of imaging that is required for ultimate dot accuracy.”
Providing exceptional imaging quality on a wide range of plate types, the TF-36 brings major productivity advantages to flexo printers.
“The packaging industry is increasingly under pressure to shorten turnaround times to respond to special offers, new lines and improved styling. Flexo CTP is one weapon in the armory to meet this need. But quality and costs are also under pressure. We believe that the new CRON FX-36 will enable flexo printers to respond to these pressures and extend their capabilities at a reasonable cost and minimum disruption,” concludes Sizer.
