SPGPrints’ launches new direct laser engraver

Packaging Solutions

SPGPrints has introduced a 914 mm version of its rotaLen direct laser engraver for imaging nickel screen cylinders, taking the technology to new markets including mid web package printing applications for folding cartons and other converting applications.

Featuring a sealed CO2 laser that ablates the printed areas without film, chemicals or water, rotaLen images SPGPrints’ non-woven nickel re-engravable RotaMesh screens with high definition resolutions of up to 5080 dpi in a single step. A narrow web version of the engraver, used primarily by label converters, accommodates screens up to 660 mm width.

Capable of applying ink or varnishes of up to 250 µm thickness in one pass, the rotary screen process is a productive way of creating high impact embellishments. Examples include raised, coarse and textured varnishes, rich and opaque colours, metallic finishes and functional tactile features like Braille and warning triangles. The process can provide an alternative to embossing for tactile features. Laser imaged rotary screens can also be used on a wide range of paper grades, including tissue, and for high quality long production runs.

SPGPrints’ technologies cover every stage of the workflow. Its RotaMesh rotary screens feature a seamless hexagonal hole structure, giving them strength to withstand handling and may be re-used multiple times, even on different jobs. Depending on the application, printing speeds up to 150 metres per minute can be achieved. The company’s printing units, with UV curing or hot air drying systems, can be integrated inline on almost all web presses up to 914 mm width, alongside flexo, offset or gravure processes.

Arno Bouwmeester commented, ‘Rotary screen printing is ideal for achieving distinctive, point of sale branding, without being restricted to using high grade papers. Moreover, SPGPrints’ RotaMesh screens make the process an economical, reliable option as they are strong enough for reuse and productive speeds. The new 914 mm width engraver ensures that rotary screen technologies are at the same advanced levels of development as the presses they are used with. In this way, converters are assured of high performance levels throughout the workflow.’

Files processed by rotaLen can be prepared with SPGPrints’ software, providing optimum control when creating fine positive and negative images. For label converters, the engraver can image two reusable RotaPlate screens simultaneously, exclusively for label printing, thanks to the extra width, when applied to a drum of 1300 mm circumference.

rotaLen is compatible with the complete rotary screen range, from the finest meshes available, such as RotaMesh 405 and RotaPlate 355F screens, to RotaMesh 75 for 250 µm thick Braille dot reproduction.