Kodak Flexcel NX Mid System donated to Stuttgart Media University

Leading to a Bachelor of Engineering, the course is conducted in English and attracts applicants from all over the world. The course focuses on future and growth-oriented segments in the print media industry, such as smart printing in a wide range of packaging and industrial applications. This includes flexo as a process for package printing. Additive manufacturing (3D printing) as well as different variable data printing (digital) technologies and applications are other major elements of the curriculum. Classic commercial printing is covered as well. The curriculum further embraces natural sciences and business basics. All technical courses are supported by a technology center, where students can gain practical experience in research, development and production.

The Flexcel NX System installed at the university is equipped with all the latest features including Kodak’s NX Advantage technology, a mechanism for optimizing ink transfer during printing through  plate surface patterning. The system can also image thermal film for screen printing stencils and features an hybrid option, which means the Flexcel NX Imager can also image thermal plates for offset. Thanks to these capabilities, the Kodak Flexcel NX System will replace two other CtP systems at Stuttgart Media University.

The Flexcel NX System in Stuttgart will also be made available to the German Flexographic Technical Association (DFTA) – which shares premises with the university – for test and training purposes.

Volker Jansen, Academic Dean and professor of print media technologies, commented: ‘The industry needs competent young talent, familiar with the newest production processes as well as with future trends in packaging printing and other growth markets – not just in Europe but throughout the world. Our aim is to get young people worldwide enthusiastic about the world of print and produce highly qualified graduates to work in emerging international markets. We provide ambitious young blood with a one-of-a-kind study environment. It’s a definite advantage that, as far as we’re aware, Stuttgart Media University has access to better and more extensive hardware than any other higher education institution worldwide offering courses in print technology.

‘The Flexcel NX System from Kodak will significantly support our efforts to elevate our practical options in packaging printing to the latest technological standard.’

Chris Payne, president of the flexographic packaging division and vice president at Kodak, said: ‘Flexographic printing is increasingly playing a key role in the packaging sector; in terms of quality, performance and production efficiency. The standard achieved with this process would have been considered impossible only 10vyears ago. Kodak Flexcel NX Plate technology has made a vital contribution here. That’s why we want to give students who will be taking on management responsibilities in tomorrow’s global printing industry an opportunity to come into contact with this innovative technology.

‘Kodak sees the donation of Flexcel NX Systems as a way to foster the course’s quality and industry relevance, giving students and lecturers alike a chance to make flexo plates for premium packaging printing using leading-edge technology.’