Flexo continues to be the most cost-effective solution for mid- to long-run printed packaging output, driven by the increase in quality and the continued development in digitalization of the flexo press equipment. Developments include inks, anilox rollers, plates, ITR sleeves and process automation and control, combined with robotics and an increase in hybrid and purpose-built press configurations all designed to increase quality and to reduce the need for increasingly hard to find skilled labor and to decrease costs and time to market.

Today’s flexo results in extremely high-quality print while still providing high productivity and low cost, with the added benefit of creating a significant defense against electrophotographic and production inkjet solutions. While the basic concepts of flexography have not changed, digital enhancements are affecting everything from transport to imaging and providing significantly enhanced automation and control. In the area of transport, the use of visual and other sensing technologies, combined with digital servo controls, enable less operator involvement and better control. This provides an advantage for flexo in that it can also be configured to address a full production line from precoat (if needed) through printing, embellishment, finishing, etc.

Today, technological developments are at the forefront of all flexo equipment and consumable manufacturers with increased digitalization, automation, and inline finishing enhancements to reduce costs and to address changing market requirements. There is also continued development in addressing environmental concerns for processing waste. Ink manufacturing is providing more eco-friendly inks and manufacturing processes to comply with local and global regulations. Meanwhile, paper and plastics manufacturers are developing substrates and solutions that better fit the reduce, reuse, and recycle model.