Flexo Plates: Dot Size and Shape Inspection

HIGHWORTH, Wilts—UK-based Troika Systems has launched its new FlexoPlate Quality Control application replacing the original FlexoCAM dot size and shape profile tool used by over 200 trade houses globally. The FlexoPlate QC is designed as an easy-to-use application used with the AniCAM 3D scanning microscope, which enables analysis of dot size and shape as well as checking the exposure and wash-out of plates.

For many in-plant platemaking operations and trade houses, checking the dot size is only half the story. Flexo plates are three dimensional; therefore, the dot profile or shape is an essential factor for reliable and efficient printing. Flexo trade houses and printers have reduced the possibility of poor dot quality by implementing FlexoPlate Quality Control in their processes by using the Troika FlexoPlate QC application and their 3D scanning microscope.

“Dot size is a standard measurement, but understanding the cost of uneven exposure on dot shapes and what happens when the wash-out causes uneven dots on press makes you realize how important plate QC is,” said Phil Hall, managing director Troika Systems. “Having an ongoing quality checking ability is helping many trade houses ensure what they are supplying matches the needs of their customers exactly. And if there are any issues, they can be identified very quickly and remedied with the minimum loss of production time.”

With line counts exceeding 200 lpi and all the new hybrid screening technologies coming out, a 3D view of the dot is virtually required in order to determine and maintain the minimum dot on a plate. Old standard dot size measurements are simply not up to the demands of today’s highest quality flexo printing. Knowing the dot shoulders are always at a consistent angle makes remakes much easier and helps reduce press set-up time.

“Our customers work in-the-round (ITR) and can now measure the dot sizes and profile, including the supporting shoulders,” said David Parr of Lead Lasers, Netherlands. “This improves their confidence when using the direct laser-engraved sleeves, knowing it will print right first time.”

Originally developed in 2005 with the support of DuPont Neu Isenberg and Flint Inks Stuttgart, the Troika FlexoCAM pioneered non-destructive 3D flexo dot measurement. The FlexoPlate QC app further advances the science of dot measurement for printers and platemakers.

The Provident Group, located in Concord, N.H., is the exclusive Troika distributor in the US, Canada, and Mexico.