Driving Efficient Flexo Printers Strive to Reduce Touches By Robert Moran, Publisher, FLEXO Magazine, Flexographic Technical Association (FTA)
Shorter runs, intricate graphics, faster speeds, and more eco-friendly operations will define the flexographic indus- try of the future. Given today’s intensely com- petitive environment, reduced changeover times, leaner operations, and adaptation of contin-
The Magazine 14
WINTER 2017
ually advancing technologies will prove essential in continuing to innovate.
In flexographic printing circles, the focus is on efficiency. The end goal remains higher print quality at lower fixed costs. Talk constantly turns to asset management. Everyone is intent on improving service, managing workflow to accommodate just-in- time delivery, complying with new packaging con- tent regulations, and expanding finishing options.
Priorities range from optimizing processes and dis- pelling waste to expanding capabilities, escalating productivity, and boosting profitability. Long-term goals stress enhancing speed to market, realizing faster makereadies and quicker setups, and deliver- ing repeatable color and ever predictable outcomes.
A significant portion of Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) printer members are voicing expectations of significant sales growth in the next twelve months. Most indicate business will improve somewhere between 5 and 10%, while some believe big boosts in volume—better than 10%—are possible.
Delving into more unique aspects of the operat- ing environment, one printer offers, “I see a lot of business transitioning to flexo. We are traditionally
a gravure shop that just started flexo.” Another com- ments, “We’re expanding into new markets. We are very diversified and provide all types of packaging for our customers.”
What’s driving the future of flexographic printing? FTA printer members cite technological advances, multiprocess combination printing, sustainable practices, automated workflows, food safety guide- lines, regulatory/compliance issues, statistical process control, and Flexographic Image Reproduc- tion Specifications and Tolerances (FIRST) and other standards and specifications.
One explains, “Through standards and specifica- tions, flexo has become a printing method with a scientific process behind it that allows products to be printed consistently and repeatedly from run to run.” A second points to technologies, such as elec- tron beam (EB) printing, and says it “has potential to eliminate the lamination process for several food products.” That observation is frequently reiterated. One printer declares, “Automated processes trans- late into printing advances.” Another notes, “Effi- ciency and quality are the forces that will separate the strong from the weak.”
Next Moves Plans to maintain and build on momentum hinge on training and skills development as the number-one strategic direction among FTA printer members. Advice is specific and based on personal experience. “We are increasing our training com- mitments and investing in technology that improves efficiency and quality.” Another one of FTA’s most engaged printer members urges peers to, “Get more output in the same amount of time with training and accountability.”
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