Flexograafias

Flexographies, or flexographic printing, is a relief printing process that uses flexible rubber or photopolymer plates and quick-drying inks. It is widely used for packaging, labeling, and other continuous-material print applications because it can print on a wide range of substrates, including plastics, foils, paper, and laminated films. The process relies on a rotating anilox roll to meter a precise amount of ink onto the raised image on the plate, a doctor blade to remove excess ink, and a plate cylinder that carries the flexible relief plate. The substrate passes between the plate cylinder and an impression cylinder, transferring the inked image. After printing, the web is dried or cured depending on the ink type.

Historically, flexography evolved from late 19th and early 20th century letterpress, with early use of rubber plates and continuous-feed presses. Improvements in photopolymer plates and the development of reliable, high-speed multi-color workflows expanded its role in packaging and labels during the mid to late 20th century. Advances in inks, drying or curing technology, and press automation have further increased its efficiency and substrate compatibility.

Inks used in flexography include water-based, solvent-based, and UV-curable formulations, selected for substrate compatibility, sustainability goals, and regulatory considerations. Modern flexographic systems often employ multiple printing units for full-color work, with digital prepress and edge-to-edge color control enhancing consistency.

Advantages include high production speeds, suitability for a broad range of substrates (including pre-printed materials), cost efficiency for long runs, and adaptability to formable or irregular surfaces. Limitations can include historical constraints on fine detail and color accuracy relative to other processes, plate wear, and environmental concerns with solvent inks; ongoing improvements in inks and digital plate imaging mitigate many of these issues.