Screen adds PlateRite FX1200 to thermal flexo platesetter range

Screen has launched a new thermal platesetter for the flexo market. The PlateRite FX1200 features Screen’s thermal imaging technology that enables output up to 4800 dpi for high quality production of flexible packaging, labels, cartons and corrugated packaging.

The third model in Screen’s flexo and letterpress range, the PlateRite FX1200 complements the FX870II and FX1524 models and supports all leading makes of plate at sizes from 100 x 100 mm up to 1200 x 1067 mm (47.2 x 42 inches). It can also be upgraded on-site to the larger FX1524 specification of 1524 x 1067 mm (60 x 42 inches), providing a growth path into larger format work.

‘Our policy of continuous innovation and refinement meets the diverse needs of our customers,’ said Carlo Sammarco, European business manager, packaging solutions, Screen. ‘With the addition of the PlateRite FX1200 we continue to strengthen our digital flexo range to provide quality, productivity and ease-of-use, together with the flexibility  to upgrade conveniently to a larger format as and when the business demands it, and without major reinvestment.’

Featuring the laser and plate loading/unloading technology that Screen’s PlateRite series employs in the offset market, the PlateRite FX1200 offers productivity of up to 4 sqm/hr (flexo; 3.3 sqm/hr at 4800 dpi) and 6.3 sqm/hr (letterpress).

A 4800 dpi output and screen rulings up to 200 lpi is achieved via a newly-developed imaging head and associated optics, using 64 high-power, long-life laser diodes, with a backup mode for continued production in the event of laser failure. This high resolution is said to significantly improve the smoothness of curves and diagonals, while the PlateRite FX1200’s reproduction of fine lines and small text is claimed to be excellent. Gradations appear smooth, especially in the highlights. This is further enhanced by Screen’s FlexoDot screening technology which offers a choice of minimum halftone dot size and shapes, enabling better tonal control and crisper imaging in printed highlights, says the company.

The PlateRite FX1200 features an easy-to-operate clamp system for holding the leading and trailing edges of maximum-size plates that makes loading simple and efficient. Smaller plates can be loaded easily and reliably without having to mask the rest of the drum.

The PlateRite FX1200 can be driven from any of Screen’s workflows and also accepts 1-bit TIFF input from any other source.

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