Rol-Tec expands ITR laser engraved print cylinder capabilities with second SPGPrints Kronos system

Rol-Tec has invested in a second precision laser engraving machine to meet growing demand for in-the-round (ITR) flexo printing sleeves and cylinders.

The investment virtually doubles Rol-Tec’s production capacity, as well as adds efficiencies and new output capabilities

This has seen it sign an agreement to purchase a second Kronos precision laser engraving system from SPGPrints. Rol-Tec purchased its first laser engraving system from SPGPrints in 2013. The investment virtually doubles Rol-Tec’s production capacity, as well as adds efficiencies and new output capabilities.

The new system will be built in Austria and installed at Rol-Tec’s primary manufacturing facility in Green Bay.

Rol-Tec president Matt Umentum said: ‘We have been manufacturing rubber covered rollers and fiberglass sleeves for the converting and printing industry for years. With the first Kronos direct laser engraving system, we became the only single source in the US for the complete system of mandrels, base sleeves, rubber covering and laser engraving. This was a great advantage to our customers by reducing purchasing logistics and eliminating delays caused by shipping components between multiple suppliers.’

Both Kronos systems can engrave cylinders up to 126in (320cm) long and diameters from 2.7-15.7in (60-400mm). ‘The first Kronos has the capacity to handle a 1100lbs (500kg) load weight, while the new unit has a load capacity of 2200lbs (1000kg),’ added Umentum. ‘The added weight capacity is significant for customers in the pattern engraving business, though flexographic print cylinders and sleeves don’t typically weigh that much. It’s also a reflection of the fact that these are both really robust and well-made machines. It's all part of our commitment to the industry.’