Technology
Printing / Converting
We run an Edale narrow web flexographic packaging press that can be specified to convert a wide range of modern substrates. Substrates can range from 12mu unsupported film to 600mu board.
To enhance control over web handling, printing and converting our press makes full use of the latest shaftless technology and is equipped with digital servo drives on each driven axis.
Embracing servo technology provides several benefits when converting tricky substrates. Each driven axis in the machine can be precisely balanced to ensure that a constant torque is applied to the web throughout the press. In doing this we can maintain extremely constant web tension throughout the speed range, resulting in very accurate registration stability.
Inks
We had already incorporated low migration inks around five years ago but in 2014 moved to bring in an ultra-low migration (ULM) standard as a result of increased focus in ink migration throughout the food packaging industry.
As part of the process, we've changed our ink stocks, conducted trials and completed profiling tests. We supply carton board products to some of the UK's best-known brands and we always strive to offer our customers the latest print finishes and effects. For us, this move to an improved lower migration ink system was an easy decision.
The benefits of Ultra-low migration inks (ULM):
- Low migration compliancy of 10ppb
- ISEGA tested
- Nestle compliant products available
- Ultra low odour, ultra low taint
- Optimum print and on-press performance WITHOUT the use of solvents
- High colour strength and heat stability
- Minimal dot gain and absorption characteristics
- Optimum adhesion properties
- High press and end conversion speed suitability
- Optimum flexibility, giving no cracking or flaking
- Dedicated first down opaque whites
- Specific coatings for optimum converting performance
HD Printing Plates
When required we use HD printing plates. HD Flexo is a process for making digital flexographic (flexo) plates. The improved plates are of a higher quality and print more consistently than standard digital flexo plates. HD Flexo may be implemented without scrapping existing equipment and working methods.
With HD Flexo, we are able to close the gap between flexo and gravure and offset. Bringing consistency, vibrant colours and increased print quality, HD Flexo raises the industry standard in flexo printing. Flexo printing can now compete with offset for quality and printing for flexible packaging.