fleksotrükki

Flexography, often shortened to flexo, is a type of printing process that uses flexible relief plates to print on a variety of substrates. This method is essentially a modern version of letterpress printing. The key characteristic of flexography is its use of resilient, raised printing plates, typically made of photopolymer. These plates are mounted on a cylinder that rotates, transferring ink directly or indirectly onto the substrate.

The process involves several key components: an ink fountain, an anilox roll, a plate cylinder, and an impression cylinder. The anilox roll, which is engraved with tiny cells, picks up a precise amount of ink from the fountain and transfers it to the raised areas of the printing plate. The plate cylinder then presses the inked plate against the substrate, creating the printed image. The impression cylinder provides backing for the substrate, ensuring even pressure and a consistent transfer of ink.

Flexography is widely used for printing packaging materials such as plastic bags, food wrappers, cardboard boxes, and labels. Its ability to print on a wide range of flexible materials, including non-porous substrates like plastic film, makes it a versatile and cost-effective solution for high-volume printing applications. The inks used in flexography are typically low in viscosity and quick-drying, often solvent-based, water-based, or UV-curable.