Focus to unveil UV version of Centraflex press at Labelexpo

At Labelexpo Europe on stand 7L20, Focus Label Machinery will unveil its new UV Centraflex press with water-cooled central impression drum – designed for printing and converting a wide range of unsupported, synthetic substrates. 

The new press is designed to compete in the growing markets for unsupported flexible packaging, shrink sleeves and the niche market for printed casings. Artificial casings are used widely used for packaging of meats, sausages and cheeses. Focus is already established in these markets with its Centraflex press, but until now has concentrated on presses for use with water-based and solvent-based inks. These growing markets are now seeing an increased demand for the high quality print and consistency provided by UV inks, says the company.   

In order to stabilize the substrate temperature, while subjected to the heat of the UV dryers, the new press incorporates a water-cooled CI drum using chilled water together with air-cooled lampheads on each print station. The increased drum diameter allows extra space for the drying system and gives good access to all six print stations. For casings, the optional turn-bar system will enable the substrate to be printed on both sides simultaneously, allowing up to six colors to be printed in register front and back (6+6 color printing). Also, an integral scraper blade system is employed to remove excess ink when casings are printed right up to the edge, without creating a build-up of ink on the CI drum.

Focus will also show a 6-color Proflex S servo press with 250mm web width and equipped with auto-register, full UV drying, chill rolls and a digital inkjet unit for variable data. The Proflex S incorporates rapid-change print cartridges to reduce downtime and an efficient inter-station drying system, enabling high press speeds. The relatively short web path allows for a compact design, while maintaining good accessibility for the operator and space for optional equipment. Full or partial UV drying is available, as well as delam/relam, rotary cold foil transfer, silk screen, turn-bar, sheet conveyor, enclosed/chambered ink ducts, plus other options.  

For digital web printers, the Reflex S servo press will demonstrate the accuracy of its re-register system – even at speeds of over 100m/min. The full rotary system incorporates printing/coating, foil, laminating, varnishing and die-cutting facilities in roll to roll or roll to sheet applications. The press on display at Labelexpo will be a 330 model with UV dryer and conveyor stacker.     

Visitors can also see the Platemate video plate mounting system for quick and accurate mounting of all photopolymer plates. The Platemate can be mounted on any bench top surface. An efficient tape dispenser is also included in order eliminate tape wastage. The Flexosonic ultrasonic anilox roll cleaner will also be demonstrated. 

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