The correct assembly of the flexo plates in the press is a crucial step in the printing process, since it directly affects the quality and consistency of the desired result, for that reason, we name some verifications that you must do:
• Cleaning: Make sure the plate is clean and free of ink residue or dirt. With the print relief facing down, clean the back with a mild solvent such as isopropyl alcohol, using a clean, non-wool (preferably microfiber) light white cloth.
• Surface: Check that the surface of the plates has no deformations or irregularities.
• Alignment: Check the correct alignment using the microdots or registration crosses (depending on your printing system).
• Pressure: Make sure that the pressure applied is as indicated and that it is uniform across its entire surface.
• Secure fixation: Verify that the sticky back is well placed on the plates holder roller and that it, in turn, is adhered correctly, without free corners or edges.
• Leveling: Make sure the press is level to avoid ink distribution problems during the run.
• Ink: Use the appropriate ink for the type of plate and substrate you are using, keep in mind that incompatibility between the ink and the plate may affect adhesion.
• Print test: Before starting production, we recommend carrying out a test to verify quality and identify possible problems and correct them before printing in large quantities.
• Documentation: By keeping a record of all the steps carried out in the project, you will be able to quickly visualize what opportunities for improvement you can incorporate and what processes take you to reach your objectives.
If your team currently carries out this verification process, congratulations!, and if, on the contrary, you have not yet implemented it, we show you some of the countless advantages:
1. Ensures correct ink transfer.
2. You can identify and correct problems before mass production.
3. Contributes to the durability of the cliché and all the variables involved in the process.
4. Minimizes time spent on adjustments and readjustments during production, improving efficiency and reducing costs associated with defective prints or rework.
5. You deliver the printed product on time, meeting the expectations and requirements of your customers.
As you can see, making these verifications contributes to sustainable and long-lasting printing practices.