Direct engraving gives sleeves a push
The digitization of prepress has its consequences for flexo plate making. The discussion focuses on the question: Will flexo printing plates and sleeves be produced by digital imaging or direct engraving? Opinions still differ. Lead Lasers BV, the Dutch producer of engraving machines, expects that direct engraving will be the technology to bring sleeves up to par for printing in flexible packaging. Nowadays, most new flexo presses are equipped with sleeve technology. Anilox rolls and printing cylinders can be produced in sleeve form. The advantages are clear: sleeves are lightweight and can easily be changed.
The digitization of prepress has its consequences for flexo plate making. The discussion focuses on the question: Will flexo printing plates and sleeves be produced by digital imaging or direct engraving? Opinions still differ. Lead Lasers BV, the Dutch producer of engraving machines, expects that direct engraving will be the technology to bring sleeves up to par for printing in flexible packaging. Nowadays, most new flexo presses are equipped with sleeve technology. Anilox rolls and printing cylinders can be produced in sleeve form. The advantages are clear: sleeves are lightweight and can easily be changed.
In combination with the modern, shaftless presses the time for job changes is
significantly reduced. Despite this, sleeves are still not used on a large scale.
