Boxmeer, Netherlands - Rotary screen solutions that efficiently and productively add value to labels and packaging will be featured on SPGPrints’ stand (Level 2, A135) at Graphispag 2017, 21-24 March, Fira Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.

The rotary screen process is uniquely capable of laying down thick layers of ink or varnish of between 5µm and 250µm in a single pass. This allows reproduction of numerous effects on self-adhesive labels and cartons, that enhance brand impact on the retail shelf, or provide functionality. These can include opaque features for the no-label look, tactile and texture varnishes, metallic effects, security features and Braille dots. 

SPGPrints’ comprehensive rotary screen printing programme, comprising robust re-engraveble nickel mesh screens, lacquers and digital screen imaging systems, enables converters to achieve these features productively and smoothly, inline, alongside flexo, offset, gravure or letterpress processes, for a relatively low cost of ownership.

Non-woven nickel RotaMesh® screens are re-engravable, while RotaPlate® screens may be re-used, saving time and money and reducing delivery times. These high-strength screens offer long life and stability at speeds of up to 130m/min (450fpm) and are suited for applications from coarse effects (up to 250μm thickness) to fine linework and legible text down to 2pt. The strength of the mesh means that screens up to 900mm wide can be used for high-volume production.

SPGPrints’ Rotary Screen Integration (RSI®) units, in widths from 254mm (10in) to 900mm (35in), can be easily integrated with presses from leading manufacturers and require minimal set-up time.

Digitised solutions for fast, user-friendly, high-definition screen imaging are also available from SPGPrints.

rotaLEN is a direct laser engraving system for imaging rotary screens up to 4000dpi resolutions in a single step. The system’s sealed CO₂ laser ablates the printed areas without film, chemicals or water, eliminating time and waste. RotaMesh screens up to 1000mm (39.3in) wide can be accommodated, or two RotaPlate meshes may be imaged simultaneously. SPGPrints’ own software is used for files for rotaLEN and provide optimum control with creating fine positive or negative images.

The variLEX hybrid laser exposer is a single, digital imaging solution for high-definition flexo, dry-offset and letterpress printing formes. With optional multi-beam diode lasers for ablating the black mask and/or for directly exposing UV-sensitive screen materials, variLEX is capable of ablation and exposure in a single step using SPGPrints’ software.

“The rotary screen process has already proven to be a vital factor in brand success in Spain and Portugal, especially for the wine and port industries,” said Hank Guitjens, commercial manager label printing, SPGPrints. “Providing the right look and feel to these labels that combine tradition, style and quality is something that SPGPrints’ solutions for screen can deliver. Other quality goods can also add value using the same techniques, providing distinction and improving the competitive advantage for brands. Being able to offer print of this quality gives label and packaging converters that important advantage, too.”