New platesetter for flexo and letterpress printing

Screen has launched a new version of its thermal platesetter for the flexo and letterpress markets.

The Platerite FX870II features imaging technology that is claimed to enable output up to 4,800 dots per inch (dpi) satisfying the increasing demand for fast job turn-arounds.

Screen said that the Platerite FX870II is the world's first flexo platesetter to offer a maximum resolution of 4,800dpi as a standard feature.

This resolution improves the smoothness of curves and diagonals, and its reproduction of fine lines and small text is outstanding.

Gradations appear smooth especially in the highlights.

The use of combination presses is becoming more widespread in the packaging and labels industries to deliver fast turn-around products at high speed, commented Screen.

Therefore, there is an increasing need for pre-press equipment that offers better quality and increased productivity.

Designed to meet these growing needs, the Platerite FX870II features a newly-developed recording head, as well as an auto-balancing function that is said to ensure stable drum rotation.

Screen said that its thermal laser technology can image advanced digital plates from a variety of leading manufacturers.

The Platerite FX870II provides better productivity in every aspect of the CTP process, from plate mounting to exposure.

Plates can be loaded in any size from 100mm x 100mm up to 870mm x 762mm without any extra handling or masking of the drum.

The elimination of intermediate production steps involving film also frees the operator from time-consuming tasks, such as preparing the film, step-and-repeat operations, and imposition work.

The Platerite FX870II reduces the number of stages required before printing and improves the resin plate quality, it is claimed.

The system also features a clamp for plate loading.

Flexo Dot is a new system of halftone dots from Screen, designed to improve the highlight areas in flexo and letterpress printing.

It features a minimum halftone dot size of several dots, as opposed to the conventional halftone dot comprising a single dot.

By applying a reinforcing pattern to the base halftone dot shape, the relief patterns in the highlight areas are more consistent, allowing more control and crisper images.

It also provides a greater range of gradation, as the minimum halftone dot shape can be selected from three available types to suit the specifics of the highlight printing according to the platemaking environment and the inks and media, said Screen.

Back to top