Kodak launches new flexo CTP system

Kodak has launched a new flexo computer to plate (CTP) system which images a carrier sheet before lamination to a plate, followed by conventional UV exposure and post-processing. Kodak claims its Flexcel NX Digital Flexographic System halves current fCTP imaging times and is capable of forming dots as small as 10 microns.

The integrated Kodak Flexcel NX system consists of the NX 830 Thermal Imaging Layer, a choice of Trendsetter NX Narrow or Mid imagers, a laminator, digital flexo plates, and the Prinergy packaging workflow system.

The Thermal Imaging Layer is imaged by Squarespot technology to provide high resolution images with highlight dots down to 10 microns.

‘The improved resolution allows flexographic printers to reproduce on press subtle gradations in highlights and use all levels of gray,’ says Vic Stalam, director of market segments and vp packaging products at Kodak’s Graphic Communications Group.

The Trendsetter images at up to 9.5 sq meters/hour, and includes TIFF-based front end software which allows operators to check files before imaging and optimize media usage for both plate imaging and proofing applications.

Post imaging, the Thermal Imaging Layer is laminated to the NX digital plate - manufactured by MacDermid Printing Solutions. The lamination ensures intimate contact between the layer and the plate, eliminating all oxygen and allowing full amplitude, flat top highlight dots to form during UV exposure, according to Vic Stalam. ‘Dot gain is extremely consistent even with over-impression. In addition, plates resist plugging with ink, decreasing costly downtime for cleaning, which often destroys highlight dots.’

The Flexcel system builds on proven elements inherited by Kodak when it acquired Creo, including the Trendsetter/Squarespot thermal imaging technology which was used to image offset plates and carrier sheets for digital halftone dot proofing, as well as Creo’s established Prinergy workflow system.

Kodak is retaining its existing Creo-legacy Thermoflex fCTP systems.