Netpack transitions to Flexcel technology

Netpack has transitioned its entire printing operations to Flexcel NX Technology after almost a decade of working with the advanced platemaking system at its facility in Cesena, Italy.

The Italian packaging producer, part of the Sorma Group, has produced over 26,000 sqm of plates using the technology since investing in a Flexcel NX System in 2016. The company averages around 1,500 new sets of plates annually.

'We first learned about Flexcel NX Technology from our sister company in Spain, so our CEO and graphics manager went to see firsthand the print quality it enabled,' said Gian Luca Zangheri, graphics manager at Netpack. 'That convinced us right away to invest in a Flexcel NX System, which quickly replaced our previous platemaking system.'

Netpack handles 100 percent of its packaging production cycle in-house, from graphic design to finished products. This approach provides what Zangheri describes as total control necessary to guarantee high customer service levels.

'We can create plates that precisely match the characteristics of each job, taking into account the press, substrate, inks, and so on,' Zangheri explained. 'We're not dependent on external suppliers, which matters a lot if we have to remake a plate.'

The company typically has plates ready within 48 hours of customer order confirmation. Zangheri emphasized that while plate quality initially attracted the company, overall efficiency and on-press performance have proven most valuable.

'The tools and targets embedded in the plates simplify linearization of the process, and repeatability is excellent — we can remake plates for a repeat job six months later, with total confidence that we'll get exactly the same result,' he said.

Netpack recently invested in a Shine LED Lamp Kit from Miraclon to address fluorescent exposure challenges. The LED upgrade provides perfect exposure uniformity, lower energy consumption, longer lamp lifespans and shorter exposure times.

'Plates are consistent in floor thickness and exposure, which wasn't the case before, and we're 100 percent confident in the linearization of the plate production process,' Zangheri said. ‘The prepress team has gained productivity benefits with simplified quality controls, performing just one check in the morning, one in the afternoon and a monthly power check.’