Top 5 flexographic printing machines​ Company List and Products Compared

Top 5 Flexographic Printing Machines Company List and Products Compared

Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Flexographic Printing Machine Matters

The flexographic printing machines industry is at the forefront of innovation in carton and packaging production. With the rapid growth of e-commerce and consumer goods, the demand for high-performance, efficient, and precise flexographic printers is soaring globally. Selecting the right machine impacts print quality, production speed, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability, making it essential for businesses to know the leading providers. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 5 flexographic printing machine companies, feature their standout products, and provide a thorough comparison to help you make an informed investment.

Keshenglong: Setting the Benchmark for Flexographic Printing Machines

Established in 1995, Keshenglong is a distinguished manufacturer of flexographic printing equipment, specializing in highly automated corrugated carton printing, slotting, and die-cutting machines. Following the merger with Japan Shinko in 2017, Keshenglong has maintained Japanese engineering excellence with local manufacturing agility.
Advantages:

• Cutting-edge R&D, incorporating Japanese technology
• Comprehensive product lineup covering color, speed, and format needs
• Wide international service network and strong technical support
• Robust build quality, ideal for long production runs

Disadvantages:

• Initial investment may be higher due to advanced features
• High automation may require skilled operators

Technical Points:

• Automatic feeder systems reduce set-up times
• Servo-driven ink and anilox rollers for precise color control
• Up to 7 color printing with drying units for rapid production
• Slotting die-cutting integration for streamlined processes

Applications:

• Corrugated carton production for food, electronics, e-commerce packaging
• High-speed, multi-color retail-ready graphics printing

BOBST: Swiss Precision and Automation in Flexo Printing

BOBST is world-renowned for its innovative and reliable flexographic presses, designed to maximize print quality and minimize waste. Their MASTERFLEX-HD series is acclaimed for High Quality results.
Advantages:

• Unmatched print register accuracy, even at high speeds
• Integrated quality control and automated setup
• Energy-efficient drying systems

Disadvantages:

• High Quality price point
• Best suited to high-volume, high-value production

Technical Points:

• Patented High Precison Bearings and Direct Drive technology
• Advanced touchscreen interface for real-time monitoring

Applications:

• Luxury carton folding, food and beverage packaging, pharmaceuticals

Heidelberg: German Engineering for Flexo Printing Solutions

Heidelberg has an outstanding reputation in the printing industry, with the Intro-Flex series achieving new levels of flexographic performance for various substrates, including board and film.
Advantages:

• Flexible substrate compatibility (paperboard, film, label stock)
• Quick-change printing units for shorter runs and fast job shifts

Disadvantages:

• May require auxiliary modules for some applications
• Not the cheapest in the market

Technical Points:

• Inline combination of flexo and digital modules
• Automated cleaning and ink supply systems

Applications:

• General folding carton, flexible packaging, tobacco and pharma cartons

Windmöller & Hölscher (W&H): Excellence in Flexible Packaging Printing

A German powerhouse, W&H is synonymous with advanced flexographic printing machines, especially for wide web and flexible packaging. The Miraflex II is their flagship.
Advantages:

• Ultra-fast changeover and setup times
• Extensive web width handling (up to 1600mm+)
• Smart energy management systems

Disadvantages:

• Primary focus on film and flexible packaging rather than heavy board
• High-tech features may be excessive for smaller print houses

Technical Points:

• VISION package for remote diagnostics and digital workflow integration
• Automatic impression and register control

Applications:

• Flexible packaging, labels, wrappers, shrink sleeves

Comexi: Sustainable Flexographic Printing Technology

Comexi, based in Spain, specializes in sustainable, mid-to-wide web flexographic presses. Their F2 series leads in eco-friendly print technology and versatile machine configuration.
Advantages:

• Low environmental impact with water-based ink compatibility
• Easy operator interface and modular upgrades

Disadvantages:

• Limited max print speed compared to the fastest rivals
• Primarily mid-web and wide-web (less for narrow applications)

Technical Points:

• Central drum configuration for excellent color-to-color registration
• Smart energy recovery features and low VOC emissions

Applications:

• Flexible packaging for food and consumer goods, shrink sleeves

Comparison Table of Top 5 Flexographic Printing Machines Companies

Conclusion: Selecting a Flexographic Printing Machine with Confidence

The global carton and packaging market demands reliable, versatile, and future-proof flexographic printing machines. From Keshenglong’s integrated precision and Japanese engineering, through BOBST’s automation, Heidelberg’s flexibility, W&H's wide-web dominance, to Comexi’s eco-friendly design, your ideal flexographic press depends on specific production requirements. Consider substrate compatibility, printing speed, automation level, support, and scalability when deciding. As a leading supplier, Keshenglong combines technology transfer, quality assurance, and expert support to deliver exceptional value in every flexographic printer. Ready to upgrade your packaging production? Reach out today for a customized flexographic printing solution tailored to your needs.
FAQ
Q: What is a flexographic printing machine and what are its advantages?
A: A flexographic printing machine uses flexible relief plates to print on various substrates, including carton board, film, and labels. Advantages include high production speeds, cost-effectiveness for long runs, and the ability to use a variety of inks (water-based, solvent, UV).
Q: How to choose the right flexo press for corrugated carton printing?
A: Consider printing width, color stations, automation, registration accuracy, after-sales support, and ease of use. Keshenglong offers a full range adaptable to most needs.
Q: What is the role of automation in modern flexo presses?
A: Automation reduces changeover times, improves print consistency, and lowers operator intervention. Advanced systems like Keshenglong incorporate Japanese control protocols for efficient production.
Q: Are flexographic printing machines suitable for sustainable packaging?
A: Yes, many presses (like Comexi and W&H) are compatible with water-based inks and energy-saving features for eco-friendly production. Keshenglong offers models supporting sustainable inks and substrates.
Q: Where are Keshenglong flexographic presses exported?
A: With exports to over 70 countries, Keshenglong ensures international service and parts support, maintaining high uptime and customer satisfaction worldwide.