What is the ideal production volume for investing in a high-speed flexo press? | Keshenglong&Shinko Guide

What is the Ideal Production Volume for Investing in a High-Speed Flexo Press?

Understanding the ideal production volume for investing in a high-speed flexo press is crucial for maximizing ROI and operational efficiency. Flexo printers face the challenge of aligning capital investment with actual printing demand, ensuring that equipment delivers value without overspending.

Key Considerations for Flexo Press Investment

1. Defining High-Speed Flexo Press Production Volumes

- High-speed flexo presses typically operate at speeds of 300–700 m/min (FLEXO Global, 2023).

- These presses are ideal for large-scale packaging, labels, and corrugated carton production.

2. Typical Production Benchmarks

- Industry estimates suggest an annual print volume threshold of 10 million meters or more to justify a high-speed press (Smithers Pira, 2022).

- For converters, this often translates to 20,000–40,000 impressions per shift.

- Semi-automatic or standard presses suit runs below 5 million meters per year.

3. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

- High-speed presses reduce cost per unit after surpassing breakeven volume, thanks to faster setup and reduced waste.

- Invest if monthly runs consistently exceed 850,000 meters or 120,000 m².

4. Job Diversity and Order Size

- Presses yield the most value for frequent, long-run jobs with minimal changeovers.

- Printers with diverse, small-batch work might benefit less from high-speed investments.

5. Market Trends Supporting Investment

- Consistent growth in flexible and corrugated packaging demand (Statista, 2023).

- Brand customers increasingly demand shorter lead times and higher print quality—both met by high-speed flexo solutions.

6. Additional Influencing Factors

- Available floor space, skilled press operators, and workflow digitization.

- Access to ongoing service, operator training, and reliable OEM support.

Data Sources and Industry Authorities

- FLEXO Global: Annual Equipment Report, 2023

- Smithers Pira: The Future of Flexographic Printing Report, 2022

- Statista: Packaging Market Volume Projections, 2023

Fast Facts: When Does High-Speed Flexo Press Investment Pay Off?

- Best-fit: Printing houses handling over 10 million meters/year or 30,000+ impressions/shift.

- Margins improve as print volume grows due to rapid makeready and automation.

- Cost savings increase exponentially past breakeven runs—critical for competitive bidding.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-speed flexo press is justified when print volumes exceed 10 million meters per year, jobs are long-run and frequent, and the business forecasts continued growth. Assess your production data and market trends to make an informed, ROI-focused decision.

Authoritative Flexo Printer Industry Insight from Keshenglong&Shinko