Ruey Chang expands ECG

Ruey Chang Printing & Packing has installed a CrystalCleanConnect CCC4260 automated flexo platemaking system and a new Uteco press at its plant in Taichung City, Taiwan, to expand its fully ECG-based flexible packaging production and prepare for water-based ECG applications.

The CCC4260 replaces the company's AWP 4835P plate processor and was commissioned in December 2025. Productivity and automation drove the decision, as the previous processor limited efficiency in plate mounting and overall throughput. The larger format and automated features of the new system are expected to improve output and process stability, reduce manual workload for operators and create a more consistent platemaking environment.

Ruey Chang specializes in flexible packaging and follows a one-stop approach covering pre-press, printing and converting. All of its jobs are currently produced using UV extended color gamut (ECG) printing on a Bobst M6 press, and the new Uteco press adds a second production line within its flexographic operations. By reducing reliance on spot colors, ECG printing minimizes ink changeovers, shortens setup times and cuts ink waste, which suits flexible packaging production with high job variability.

'Our investment strategy goes beyond maintaining our current UV ECG production. With 100 percent of our jobs already produced using ECG, the next logical step was to expand our production environment and prepare for additional ink systems. The new press line positions Ruey Chang for the next stage of ECG development, including water-based applications,' said Roger Wang, executive assistant at Ruey Chang Printing & Packing.

The company also plans to move progressively from AWP™=-DEW plates to AWP-CLFQ flat-top plates, validating them first within its UV ECG workflow before extending their use across production. It expects the plates to deliver more consistent solid ink density and better white opacity, particularly when combined with Quartz screening.

'Ruey Chang's investment demonstrates a clear commitment to long-term ECG development. AWP-CLFQ plates are designed to deliver consistent ink transfer and stable print performance in UV ECG today, while also providing a robust technical foundation for the next generation of water-based ECG applications,' added Masaki Matsumoto, managing executive at Asahi Photoproducts.