In this issue, we’re delighted to feature an article authored by Sean Teufler of Harper Corporation of America. He takes our readers on a deep dive into the intricate world of anilox engraving specification. While we are learning new things about the label printing and converting industry all the time, myself and the rest of the L&NW editorial staff are somewhat limited when it comes to writing stories highly technical in nature, such as Sean’s anilox engraving feature. So, we turn to the experts.

A FIRST Level III Implementation Specialist, a two-time chair of the FTA Fall Conference, and an FTA President’s Cup winner for Leadership Excellence, there is no one more qualified to offer insight into the critical aspects of the flexographic print process than Sean. The anilox roll is often called “the Heart of Flexo,” so it’s most interesting to learn about all of the factors involved in the production of an optimal anilox roll.

We reached out to Harper for this piece in large part because we felt it was time for an update on the topic of anilox roll specification. Thanks to the data we receive from Google Analytics, we learned that a 2008 article we published by Dan Foy titled “Anilox Roll Specification: Line Count or Volume” continues to be one of our most read articles – month after month, nine years after it initally appeared in the magazine. With so much innovation taking place, along with the rapid rate of change within the industry, an update on the topic was long overdue.

Our readers have mentioned to me that they would like for L&NW to have some more technical content from time to time, and we’re happy to oblige.

Though we’re not manufacturers, we borrow from the Lean Manufacturing lexicon in our approach to putting this magazine together – continuous improvement – which means perpetually educating ourselves on the latest trends and technologies. It’s so we can improve upon our role in providing education and information to the label industry. With this in mind, we’re excited for the next major event. No, not Labelexpo Europe – yes, our biennial trip to Brussels is fast-approaching – but before that we’ll head to Chicago in early September for another event that takes place every two years, the TLMI printThink Summit.

If the name of the event doesn’t ring a bell, it’s okay, you’re not losing it. It used to be called the TLMI Technical Conference, and it has been rebranded and expanded in order to support the needs of converters’ operational, technical and business staff. There will will be three tracks of education, focusing on Shops & Systems, Science & Sustainability, and Strategy & Success. With 15 sessions concentrated in five content areas of Color Management, Future of Operations, Inkjet, UV vs. LED, and Workflow, there is truly something to be gained for any member of a label company’s production team.

I look forward to seeing you there and learning alongside you. Then we can start thinking about Brussels. (Of course we already have, just turn to page 72 of this issue.)



Steve Katz, Editor
[email protected]
Twitter: @LabelSteve