Can the machine run different board grades without adjustments? | Keshenglong&Shinko Guide

Can the Machine Run Different Board Grades Without Adjustments?

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Flexo printers are expected to deliver consistency and efficiency. A common question among professionals is whether flexo printing machines can run different board grades without needing manual or automatic adjustments. This article examines the operational capabilities, limitations, and best practices regarding board grade changes, so you can optimize performance and reduce downtime.

Factors Influencing Board Grade Flexibility

Board Grade Variability

- Board grades differ by thickness, composition, and surface texture, directly impacting print quality (Source: FEFCO, 2023).

- Typical board grades include single wall, double wall, triple wall, and various recycled options.

- Variations affect ink absorption, pressure needs, and cutting accuracy.

Machine Design Considerations

- Most flexo printers, including leading models from Keshenglong&Shinko, are designed for a set range of board calipers.

- Automatic adjustment features—such as servo-controlled anilox and impression settings—aid rapid changeover.

- Older or entry-level machines usually require manual setup for each board grade change.

Print Quality and Process Stability

- Running different board grades without adjustment may lead to:

- Poor ink transfer due to surface differences.

- Inconsistent die-cut depth or misregistration.

- Increased waste and rework, offsetting productivity gains.

Required Adjustments When Changing Board Grade

Essential Adjustment Points

- Impression Pressure: Adapt for board thickness to maintain clear, uniform print.

- Ink Viscosity and Volume: Adjust to match board absorbency.

- Feed and Registration Settings: Crucial for proper sheet handling and print alignment.

Automation and Control Systems

- Advanced flexo printers feature presets and automated adjustment based on board profiles.

- Data connectivity allows for quick recall of job-specific settings, saving setup time (Source: Flexographic Technical Association, 2022).

Best Practices for Efficient Board Grade Changeovers

- Use machines with automatic setup and stored job recipes to minimize manual adjustments.

- Invest in operator training for rapid, accurate setting changes.

- Regularly calibrate and maintain equipment to ensure repeatability across different board grades.

Authoritative Industry Advice

- The FEFCO Technical Guidelines emphasize correct adjustment as key to maximizing board and print quality.

- Flexographic Technical Association research shows machines equipped with automation reduce average changeover time by up to 40%.

Key Takeaways

- Modern flexo printers cannot optimally run different board grades without some adjustments, especially for quality and efficiency.

- Automation improves flexibility and reduces downtime, but operator oversight is pivotal.

- Proper adjustment processes are recommended to ensure best results across diverse materials.

For further guidance tailored to your production line, or a demo of Keshenglong&Shinko’s automation features, contact us today.