Focus installs flexo press in Malawi

Malawi-based Flexible Packaging Industries has installed a 6-color Centraflex 250 flexo press from Focus Label Machinery. The machine, the first of its kind to be installed in the country, has among its features UV varnishing, three die-cutting units, laminating, video inspection and auto tension control. In addition, Focus has supplied an RT250 slitter rewinder, a Profile A3 platemaker and a Platemate video platemounter. 

The new press is to be used for flexible packaging and self-adhesive labels on a range of substrates and was purchased in order to capitalize on a growing domestic market, which relies heavily on imported labeling. 

In addition to the UV varnish unit, the press is equipped with standard dryers, which combine infra red lamps with forced cold air, allowing faster drying speeds without heat build up. The removable print cassettes can be interchanged or removed from the press in a few seconds, allowing fast job changes and clean ups. 

Faizal Khamboo of Flexible Packaging Industries said: ‘We had been looking for a compact press which was capable of producing self-adhesive labels and wet glue labels as well as filmic products and light carton board. We first saw the Centraflex at Drupa 08 and were very impressed with the quality and versatility of the press. A few months afterwards, we placed our order and started to prepare our plant in Malawi. The Centraflex press is now fully installed and is already producing high quality labels for our local and export markets. Focus has been very helpful and given plenty of technical assistance in all aspects of this project. I’m sure that we will soon talking to them about our next press.’ 

Focus sales manager Antony Cotton said: ‘Flexible Packaging Industries needed a versatile press, capable of producing a wide range of different products. With its central impression design, our Centraflex press met with all their requirements, whilst remaining compact and sensibly priced. In addition, we were able to provide our customer with a complete package, including all the ancillary equipment they needed to begin production. We look forward to building a good working relationship with Flexible Packaging Industries in the future.’ 

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