Kolding, Denmark, and Hapert, The Netherlands - TRESU DigitalSolutions, provider of flexo coating systems for digital printing lines, and Apex International, manufacturer of precision anilox coating and ink technology for packaging and label converting, have formed a global research, development and training partnership. Sharing expertise and facilities, the two companies aim to improve the performance of coating technology for sheet-fed digital printing applications, and to enhance customer service for users of TRESU’s iCoat Single and Twin sheet-fed coaters.

TRESU’s iCoat coating systems integrate with sheet-fed digital folding carton and commercial printing presses. They are used to apply full, spot or line varnish coatings that provide added protection or aesthetic qualities to the underlying graphics. As a result they provide an important link in a seamless, high-speed single-pass printing and converting line for these applications.  

Apex International, headquartered in Hapert, The Netherlands, is the world’s largest manufacturer of precision coating- and ink-transfer technology products. The company supplies anilox and metering rolls and sleeves for label, flexible packaging, corrugated, offset and industrial coating applications.  Its patented GTT® (open slalom engraving) anilox technology offers optimised ink transfer consistency for high-definition flexo and fixed palette printing situations. Furthermore, Apex International’s smooth, consistent coating transfer solution has proven to be popular in the coating industry thanks to its ability to eliminate micro-foaming.

The two companies will share TRESU Group’s iCoat digital coating test facilities at Kolding (Denmark) headquarters, and Apex International’s seminar and training centre at Hapert. Furthermore, TRESU will take responsibility for the sale of Apex International consumable products to its coating customers.

Kim Krintel, vice-president, TRESU DigitalSolutions, comments: “Apex International’s wealth of expertise in water-based and UV-curable coating transfer technology perfectly complements the digital folding carton workflow. By combining resources, competences and knowledge, we are well-placed to drive further process optimisation, and enable TRESU iCoat users to enjoy improvements in efficiency, quality and support.”