What Is Flexo Printing Machine

May 21,2025

Publisher: RUITING

1. Overview

A flexo printing machine uses fluid ink and a roller system to transfer images onto substrates. Ink flows from the ink pan via an ink fountain roller to an anilox roller, which distributes precise ink volumes to the raised image areas of flexible relief plates. An impression cylinder applies pressure to transfer ink to substrates like paper, plastic, or corrugated board, followed by drying—using hot air or UV light. Its simple design enables easy operation and high-speed production, making it ideal for packaging and label printing.

2. Naming Origin

The term "flexographic" stems from early corrugated cardboard printing needs. Rigid plates failed on its uneven surface, so flexible plates were developed to conform to ridges and valleys. To prevent ink smudging on unprinted "high points," non-image areas of the plate were deeply recessed. "Flexo" highlights the plates' adaptability, while "graphic" refers to image transfer—capturing the technology's core: flexible, deeply etched plates for rough substrates.

3. Key Features

Feature	Description
Substrate Range	Works on porous (paper, cardboard) and non-porous (plastic, metal foil) materials.
Cost Efficiency	Low plate costs and high-speed operation reduce production costs per unit.
Environmental	Uses water-based/UV-curable inks to minimize VOC emissions.
Resolution	Achieves 100–200 lpi, suitable for most packaging and label applications.

4. Applications

Flexo machines excel in:

• Packaging: Corrugated boxes, food pouches, and pharmaceutical cartons.
• Labels: Self-adhesive retail labels, shrink sleeves, and industrial tags.
• Specialty: Textile banners, metallic packaging, and embossed surfaces.

5. Technology Comparison

Technology	Plate Type	Substrate Flexibility	Speed	Ideal For
Flexo	Flexible relief	High (uneven surfaces)	High	Large-volume packaging
Offset Litho	Rigid aluminum	Low (smooth paper)	Moderate	High-resolution prints
Gravure	Engraved metal	Medium	Very high	Long-run consistency
Screen Printing	Mesh stencil	Extremely high	Low	Specialty items

Conclusion

Flexo printing balances simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, making it a key technology in modern industrial printing. While offering moderate resolution, advancements in plates and automation enhance precision and sustainability, ensuring its relevance in diverse applications from packaging to specialized labeling.