Flexo printing, also known as flexography or flexible plate printing, is a type of rotary printing process that utilizes a flexible printing plate made of rubber, plastic, or other elastomeric materials. Here are some key points about flexo printing:
It is a printing method where fast-drying ink is transferred from a flexible relief plate to a variety of substrates such as paper, plastic films, metal foils, and textiles.
This printing technique is widely used in the packaging industry for printing labels, flexible packaging materials, and corrugated boxes. It is also suitable for printing on rough or uneven surfaces.
Flexo printing machines are equipped with precision-engineered components that ensure accurate registration and consistent print quality. Modern flexo presses also incorporate advanced technologies such as digital plate-making and ink management systems.
Silkscreen refers to a specific printing technique that involves the use of a stencil method.
Silkscreen (or silk-screen) is a stencil method of printmaking where a design is imposed on a screen of silk or other fine mesh. The blank areas of the screen are coated with an impermeable substance, while ink is forced through the mesh onto the printing surface.
The term "silk screen" originated in the early 20th century, with the earliest recorded use dating back to 1930. It was initially referred to as a "silk screen" due to the use of silk as the mesh material. Over time, other materials like synthetic fibers have been used, but the name "silkscreen" has remained.
In silkscreen printing, a stencil or film positive of the desired design is placed on top of the mesh screen. The areas that are not part of the design are coated with an ink-resistant material, leaving only the design areas open. Ink is then applied to the top of the screen, and a squeegee or similar tool is used to push the ink through the open mesh areas onto the printing surface below.
Silkscreen printing is widely used for various applications, including T-shirts, printed fabrics, advertising, logo and branding, flags, banners, and many other items. It is a popular choice for its ability to produce sharp, detailed designs on a variety of surfaces.
Offset is a printing technique that utilizes the principle of "oil and water do not mix" to transfer ink from a plate to a rubber blanket and then to the printing material, such as paper.
In printing presses, a sleeve refers to a cylindrical component that fits around a plate cylinder or impression cylinder. It can be used to carry the printing plate or to adjust the printing pressure.
Offset by sleeve refers to the use of a sleeve component in an offset printing press, the sleeve could be used to carry the printing plate or adjust the printing pressure.
Rotogravure is an intaglio printing process where letters and pictures are transferred from an etched copper cylinder to a web of paper, plastic, or similar material in a rotary press.
In this process, an image is first etched onto a copper cylinder. This cylinder is then inked, and the excess ink is wiped away, leaving ink only in the etched areas. The inked cylinder then comes into contact with the substrate (paper, plastic, etc.) and transfers the inked image onto it.
Rotogravure printing is commonly used for high-quality printing of magazines, newspapers, catalogs, packaging, and other materials that require fine detail and rich colors.
Digital inkjet, also known as digital inkjet printing technology or digital printing technology, is a non-contact inkjet printing method utilizing high-tech digital printing equipment. This technology enables printing on a wide range of materials, including but not limited to wood, glass, crystal, metal plates, ceramic tiles, plastic, fabrics, leather, silicone, PVC, and more.
It is not limited by the type of material. It can print on virtually any surface, allowing for a broad range of applications.
Digital inkjet printing is cost-effective, especially for short-run or customized print jobs. There are no setup costs or plate charges, and the printing can be done directly from digital files.