SPGPrints Printing Systems Wuxi Co., SPGPrints’ China subsidiary, showed rotary screen printing and laser imaging systems for creating high-quality labels and packaging in a streamlined, efficient workflow at Labelexpo Asia 2017, December 5-8, at the Shanghai New International Expo Center.

SPGPrints’ rotary screen solutions displayed at the show cover every step in the workflow, providing a cost-efficient, productive way of applying numerous eye-catching and functional effects that add brand value. These include the no-label look, raised varnishes, fine linework, small text, metallic foil, security features and Braille up to 250 micron thick, in a single pass.

The company’s program of Rotary Screen Integration (RSI) printing modules, using 100% nickel re-imageable RotaMesh and re-usable RotaPlate rotary screens, enable smooth incorporation of the process inline with flexo, gravure, offset and letterpress processes. SPGPrints has a close partnership with many of the world’s leading press manufacturers, to install the technology on both new and, through retrofitting programs, on existing presses, up to at least 900mm width.

Expanded, durable nickel screen for high-value effects
With a unique hexagonal hole structure, SPGPrints’ nickel RotaMesh screens offer precision, durability and long-term value. They withstand handling and several imaging cycles, and remain stable at printing speeds of up to 150m/min. The nickel RotaPlate screens also offer significant reusability and stability at relatively high speeds.

Samples covering the complete range effects possible with both screens will be available for visitors to appreciate the visual impact and aesthetic appeal achievable.

SPGPrints has recently expanded its RotaMesh programme of rotary screens. The RotaMesh 405 was introduced to meet the demands of the Chinese market for sharp reproduction of small han, hanzi and Western text, down to 3-points. The ultra-high mesh count gives brand-owners the natural vividness of rotary screen, with the ability to provide more information, clearly, on a label. Also new is the RotaMesh Glitter Screen for glitter, lustre, shimmer and optically variable inks. 

HD CtP Laser imaging solutions for multiple processes
The variLEX processor is a high-definition digital imaging solution for flexo, dry-offset, screen and letterpress printing formes – combining ablating and exposing in one machine. Offering resolutions of up to 5080dpi, variLEX features multi-beam diode lasers that ablate the black mask and/or directly expose UV-sensitive screen materials. The flexibility of the variLEX means that it is easily adapted to customers’ plate and dot-shaping specifications.

For dedicated rotary screen imaging, SPGPrints also offers rotaLEN 7511, a direct CO2 laser engraving system with resolutions up to 5080dpi, without using film, chemicals or water. SPGPrints’ software optimises control when creating fine positive and negative images.

Additionally, there will be information about SPGPrints’ new Dev & Dry developer and washing system for RotaPlate screens, providing a fast, automated imaging solution with minimal manual input and outstanding reproducibility, without risk of error.  

Jimmy Cao, sales manager label printing, SPGPrints Printing Systems Wuxi Co., commented: “Retail goods manufacturers seek distinctive packaging for their brands, to convey the quality expected by consumers. We are experiencing a growth in demand for our rotary screen technology, as brand owners see a workflow centred around RotaMesh and RotaPlate as the solution to meet brand-owners’ quality demands, combined with a low cost of ownership and the support of SPGPrints’ global network. Our experienced technical sales team will be available at Labelexpo Asia to explain how these advanced technologies are the ideal platform for meeting the Asian market’s needs.”