Linney, a prominent UK-based print and packaging company headquartered in Mansfield, has recently expanded its capabilities with the acquisition of the Focus Proflex 330SE Hybrid press. This investment reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for short-run, full-color digital labels while maintaining its expertise in high-volume flexographic printing. The Proflex 330SE Hybrid is a versatile machine that combines flexographic printing, single-pass inkjet technology, and in-line converting, offering Linney enhanced flexibility and efficiency in its operations.
The Need for Hybrid Technology
Linney’s decision to invest in the Proflex 330SE Hybrid was driven by a noticeable increase in demand for short-run, high-quality digital labels. While the company’s existing flexographic press has been a reliable workhorse for medium and long-run projects, the need for a solution that could handle smaller batches with the same precision and cost-effectiveness became apparent. According to Executive Director Charles Linney, the Proflex Hybrid is a true hybrid press that seamlessly integrates flexographic and digital inkjet technologies, providing the company with the ability to tackle a wider range of projects.
Key Features of the Proflex 330SE Hybrid
The Proflex 330SE Hybrid is a full-color (CMYK) digital inkjet press equipped with four in-line servo-driven flexographic print heads and advanced converting capabilities. It supports web widths of 250mm and 330mm, offering flexibility for various label sizes. The press also includes full rotary and semi-rotary die-cutting options, as well as UV and LED drying systems, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of materials and applications.
One of the standout features of the Proflex Hybrid is its modular inkjet system, which uses Konica Minolta’s high-quality piezo drop-on-demand inkjet heads. This system supports web widths of 149mm, 223mm, and 297mm and can achieve speeds of up to 50 meters per minute. Additionally, the press offers white ink printing with LED pinning, enabling the production of labels on transparent, metallized, or dark substrates. The inclusion of GIS software and RIP (Raster Image Processor) ensures precise color management and variable data printing capabilities.
Advantages of the Hybrid Approach
The Proflex 330SE Hybrid eliminates the need for click charges or mandatory service contracts, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses. It supports a wide range of substrates, including paper, PP, PE, cartonboard, and aluminum foil, without requiring pre-coated materials. For substrates that benefit from pre-coating, the press includes a flexographic print station with UV, LED, or IR drying options. Additionally, the in-line corona treatment feature enhances the adhesion of inks on filmic substrates.
The flexographic printing and converting section of the press allows for high-speed, four-color printing and precise re-registration of pre-printed webs at speeds exceeding 120 meters per minute. The semi-rotary die-cutting option further reduces tooling costs and increases operational efficiency.
Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
The acquisition of the Proflex 330SE Hybrid underscores Linney’s position as a leader in the print and packaging industry. James Thomas, Head of Sales & Business Development at Focus, highlighted the significance of this investment, noting that it reflects the trust and confidence that Linney has in Focus’s products and services. David Lee, Focus Sales Director, emphasized the innovative nature of the Proflex Hybrid, which combines flexographic and digital inkjet technologies to meet the evolving needs of the label and packaging market.
As the industry continues to face pressure to produce smaller quantities with greater frequency, the Proflex 330SE Hybrid offers a sustainable and efficient solution. By integrating digital and flexographic printing into a single machine, Linney is well-positioned to meet the demands of its clients while maintaining its reputation for quality and innovation.
Conclusion
Linney’s investment in the Focus Proflex 330SE Hybrid press marks a significant step forward in its ability to deliver high-quality, cost-effective printing solutions for both short-run and high-volume projects. The press’s hybrid design combines the best of flexographic and digital inkjet technologies, offering unparalleled flexibility and efficiency. With this latest addition to its portfolio, Linney is poised to continue its leadership in the UK’s print and packaging industry, meeting the needs of its clients with precision and reliability.
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