Rotoflex launches DF3 in support of growth in digital printing

Rotoflex has launched DF3, a configurable off-line digital finishing and converting machine.

Rotoflex DF3 launches at Labelexpo

Debuting at Labelexpo Americas 2018, the Rotoflex DF3 is servo-driven from unwind to rewind with print and die cut units in between. It has been designed to deliver efficient operation and a full spectrum of off-line decoration and finishing in the fast-growing digital and hybrid world.

‘The DF3 is ideal for a business that currently operates roll-to-roll digital label presses and is ready to its optimize finishing processes,’ said Kevin Gourlay, senior vice president, Rotoflex. ‘The Rotoflex organization is excited to share with the industry how this solution can remove the bottlenecks in production while meeting customer embellishment requirements. All with a single post-press asset.’

The DF3 complements digital, non-hybrid label presses without in-line converting functionality and eliminates the need for single-application embellishment units.

Manohar Dhugga, VP of operations at Rotoflex said the technology is a replacement for legacy digital converting systems due to its configurability. ‘The DF3 comes with a rail option that opens a lot of doors when you add it to your configuration,’ said Dhugga.

The rail enables lamination, foil decoration, rotary screen (both conventional or UV digital alternatives), advanced waste removal features and turnbars.

Dhugga continued: ‘At the show, we got a lot of praise for the lamination capabilities the rail brings to the table. It's something that conventional digital or other similar systems can't do in-line and the DF3 supports it cost-effectively at top speeds for short-run work.’

The DF3 delivers capabilities of both full and semi-rotary diecutting which accommodates a wide range of repeat sizes and existing investments in tooling. Die changeovers are also achieved in 30 seconds or less.

The DF3 was built with speed in mind, converting and finishing at an unprecedented 1000 fpm. Beyond speed of the actual hardware, Rotoflex is able to support delivery by the end of the year for those interested in taking advantage of the Section 179 tax incentive for capital equipment expenses.

The Rotoflex DF3 is available for demonstrations at the company's new headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Beyond housing the core Rotoflex team, the facility also supports manufacturing of the inspection and rewind systems, which was initially conducted at Mark Andy headquarters in the United States, parent company to Rotoflex.

Gourlay concluded: ‘There was a significant gap in the market for an off-line solution to support brand requirements. This machine hits all the key needs- value-add finishes, high speeds, and options for any business challenge. We've had many companies already commit to the technology at Labelexpo and we anticipate it to make a major impact on their bottom lines in Q4.’

Read more about finishing and converting technology in issue 5, 2018 as part of the Labelexpo Americas 2018 review