Guía definitiva del comprador de máquinas de impresión flexográfica de etiquetas

Within the rapidly advancing domain of packaging and printing, labels serve a more sophisticated function beyond mere information repositories. They are means to convey a brand’s image as well as a product’s worth. In the case of firms looking for speed and quality in label production, choosing the right flexo label printing machine becomes critical. This guide will demonstrate the uniqueness of flexo presses and assist you in choosing the most suitable machine for your business.

Why Choose Flexo Printing for Label Production?

Flexo printing has retained its place as one of the most popular methods for printing labels for a long time due to its unique advantages. Its speed is like a marathon runner, especially good for big orders. It greatly reduces the cost per label, contributing to increased profitability. Also, Flexo printing is compatible with a wide range of substrates, for example with paper, plastic film and metal foil. The flexographic printing method excels for each of these substrates. The ink bonds well to the surfaces, and the printed labels endure for long periods which is helpful for labels that need to stay eligible for a long period of time.

How Does a Flexo Printing Machine Work?

The principles of flexographic printing machines are quite simple: see it like a “stamp” technique. In this technique, flexo plates, typically made of polymer, are supplied with ink from an anilox roller which serves as a dispenser for exact quantities of paint. It dispenses in a controlled manner. In the printing plate the foamed parts are the ones that receive paint, forming a raised image. Then the printing plate is applied onto the specified material via a printing cylinder and the printing is completed. This operation happens continuously in series. The application of various coatings can also be integrated into this process.

How to Choose the Right Flexo Label Printing Machine?

Choosing a flexo label printing machine is like picking the most useful tool for a special job. You need to think carefully about many different things.

Assess Your Production Needs

First, know exactly what you need. How large are your typical orders? What types of materials will you print on the most? How many colors do you need? Will you need other steps like die-cutting, laminating, or hot stamping done right after printing? How complex are your products? Do you need the colors to line up perfectly?

Define Required Features

Based on what you need, decide what features the machine must have. These include how wide it can print, its fastest speed, how many colors it can use, the range of printing lengths it can handle, if you need systems to dry UV or water-based inks, how automated it is (like automatic color lining up, or cleaning), and if it can do other steps, like cutting while printing.

Set Your Budget

Your budget should cover more than just the cost of buying the machine at first. Also think about the costs for setting it up, training people to use it, spare parts, things you use regularly (ink, plates, rollers), and the costs for keeping it running and fixing it over time.

Consider After-Sales Support

Good help after you buy the machine is important to keep it working well. Find out about the warranty time from the company that made or sold it. How fast do they help if you have technical problems? Can they easily send you spare parts? Do they offer help with setting up the machine and training people?

Request Demos and Samples

If you can, watch the machine work in person. Or, ask them to print samples using the materials you normally use. Look at the printed samples to see how good the print quality is and how steady the machine is.

Evaluate Supplier Reputation

Choosing a supplier with a lot of experience and a good name is like picking a reliable guide. They can give you better advice, make sure the equipment is good quality, and offer strong help while you buy and use the machine.

Finding Your Specific Flexo Label Printing Machine

With many excellent flexo label printing machine models available, each designed with specific strengths, finding the right one requires understanding their individual capabilities. Below, we look at some high quality models, highlighting their key features and the value they offer to different types of printing businesses.

KETE KTLP-S60 Series

For businesses focused on efficient adhesive label production with integrated finishing, the KETE KTLP-S60 Series is a compelling choice known for its integrated single-pass workflow. This machine handles the entire process – unwinding, printing, varnishing, drying, laminating, die-cutting, and rewinding – in a single pass. This all-in-one capability streamlines your workflow and increases productivity. Key technical features like the ceramic anilox cylinder ensure precise ink transfer for consistent quality, while auto tension control and an EPC controller provide stable and accurate material handling. The printing unit’s 360° plate adjustment allows for fine-tuning registration. Equipped with an IR dryer (Hot Air) and an inline die-cutting station as standard, and offering options for UV drying, reverse printing, and web video inspection, the S60 Series provides the essential tools for reliable and quality adhesive label output.

Modelo	Max En bruto Material Width (mm)	Max Printing Width (mm)	Max Mechanical Speed (m/min)	Max Printing Speed (m/min)	Number of Colors	Printing Repeat Length (mm)	Raw Material Type	Unwind/Rebobinar Dia. (in)
KETE KTLP-S60/320	320	310	60	50	1-6	177.8-355.6	Etiqueta adhesiva	600 (~23.6)
KETE KTLP-S60/450	460	450	60	50	1-6	177.8-355.6 / 206.3-460.3 (opt)	Etiqueta adhesiva	600 (~23.6)

KETE KTLP-S60D Series

Building on the efficiency of the S60, the KETE KTLP-S60D Series is designed for adhesive label producers requiring enhanced finishing flexibility, particularly in die-cutting and output. This machine maintains the efficient single-pass process but adds capabilities like multiple die-cutting stations, including support for double-sided work and sheet cutting. Customers benefit from this increased versatility, allowing them to handle more complex label designs and output formats within a single inline operation. It’s chosen by those who need reliable printing combined with advanced, integrated finishing options for diverse adhesive label jobs.

Modelo	Max En bruto Material Width (mm)	Max Printing Width (mm)	Max Mechanical Speed (m/min)	Max Printing Speed (m/min)	Number of Colors	Printing Repeat Length (mm)	Raw Material Type	Unwind/Rebobinar Dia. (in)
KETE KTLP-S60D/320	320	310	60	50	1-6	177.8-355.6 / 206.3-460.3 (opt)	Etiqueta adhesiva	600 (~23.6)
KETE KTLP-S60D/450	460	450	60	50	1-6	177.8-355.6 / 206.3-460.3 (opt)	Etiqueta adhesiva	600 (~23.6)

KETE KTLP-S60L Series

For printers specializing in wider paper-based packaging like cups, bowls, and straws, the KETE KTLP-S60L Series offers a dedicated and efficient solution. Engineered for one-pass printing on roll paper up to 810mm wide, this machine integrates all necessary steps from unwinding to rewinding. Customers choose the S60L for its ability to handle wider formats at a consistent speed, providing the necessary capacity for paper-based packaging production. Its reliable paper handling and integrated processes make it a valuable asset for this specific market segment.

Modelo	Max En bruto Material Width (mm)	Max Printing Width (mm)	Max Mechanical Speed (m/min)	Max Printing Speed (m/min)	Number of Colors	Printing Repeat Length (mm)	Raw Material Type	Unwind/Rebobinar Dia. (in)
KETE KTLP-S60L/620	620	610	60	50	4-6	177.8-355.6	Papel en rollo	600 (~23.6)
KETE KTLP-S60L/820	820	810	60	50	4-6	177.8-355.6	Papel en rollo	600 (~23.6)

KETE KTLP-NW180 Series

Businesses facing high-volume demands for narrow web printing on diverse materials, including various plastic films and paper, should turn to the KETE KTLP-NW180 Series for its speed, precision, and versatility. This inline flexo machine stands out with its advanced servo control system, ensuring exceptional accuracy at speeds up to 180m/min. Customers value its ability to handle a wide range of substrates and repeat lengths, supported by standard features like auto color register and web video inspection for consistent high quality. The NW180 Series is a powerful investment for demanding narrow web applications where high throughput and material flexibility are critical for business growth.

Modelo	Max En bruto Material Width (mm)	Max Printing Width (mm)	Max Mechanical Speed (m/min)	Max Printing Speed (m/min)	Number of Colors	Printing Repeat Length (mm)	Raw Material Type	Unwind/Rebobinar Dia. (in)
KETE KTLP-NW180/350	360	350	180	150	4-12	241.3-603.25	Paper, No-Shrink Plastic Film	800 (~31.5)
KETE KTLP-NW180/450	460	450	180	150	4-12	241.3-603.25	Paper, No-Shrink Plastic Film	800 (~31.5)
KETE KTLP-NW180/650	660	650	180	150	4-12	304-730.25	Paper, No-Shrink Plastic Film	1000 (~39.4)

Mark Andy 2200

The Mark Andy 2200 is a legendary and highly recognizable flexographic printing press, widely regarded as a workhorse in the label printing industry. Its enduring efficiency has made it a foundational machine for many successful printing businesses over the years. Customers choose the 2200 for its proven reliability and versatility across different web widths (10, 13, or 17 inches) and its capability to handle up to 12 colors. Operators appreciate its simplicity, with a master control panel that provides easy access to all press functions. The 2200 offers tangible value through its high running speeds and faster changeovers, representing a smart and established investment for businesses prioritizing consistent performance and straightforward operation.

Modelo	Web Width (in)	Speed (ft/min)	Unwind/Rebobinar Dia. (in)	Number of Colors	Printing Repeat Length (in/mm)	Raw Material Type	Die-cutting Units	Die-cutting Repeat (in)
Mark Andy 2200	10/13/17	500-750	40 (~1016mm)	Max 12	Min 5.5-7, Max 24 (140-178, 610)	(Not specified)	–	–

BOBST VISION M1

For converters seeking a press that balances repeatable high print quality, operational efficiency, and flexibility across a wide range of substrates, the BOBST VISION M1 is a strong contender. It is designed to deliver an excellent Total Cost of Ownership through features aimed at reducing expenses: low maintenance requirements, high energy efficiency, a very short web path that minimizes material waste, and automation that leads to very short setup times. Automation features like AccuDrive for automatic register control and DigiGap for automatic die-cutting pressure control ensure consistent productivity and process repeatability. The machine is also designed for ease of use, with features like the Flower flexo head facilitating fast job setup and changeovers without requiring highly skilled operators. Connectivity features allow remote access to production data, making the VISION M1 a highly efficient, versatile, and cost-effective choice for diverse label production needs.

Modelo	Web Width (in)	Speed (ft/min)	Unwind/Rebobinar Dia. (in)	Number of Colors	Printing Repeat Length (in/mm)	Raw Material Type	Die-cutting Units	Die-cutting Repeat (in)
BOBST VISION M1	14.6 to 16.9	max 590	39.4	max 10	6.5 to 24.0 (165 to 610)	Self-adhesive stock, paper, light carton	max 3	11.0 to 24.0 (279.4 to 609.6)

Choosing a Trusted Manufacturer Matters

As with every other business decision you make, picking a trustworthy manufacturer is crucial to the success of your flexo label printing machine. This greatly impacts the machine’s quality during the initial purchase stage, as well as its efficacy and the support provided later on.

A good manufacturer should have a well-defined supply chain, and should be capable overall. For example, a company that has been around for many years, sells many machines each year, has several modern factories and many production lines usually has considerable experience and is able to produce on a large scale. Collaborating with top factories and using parts from well-known international brands mark strong good equipment quality. Like KETE, having customers from all over the world (exporting to 80+ countries), steady production (2000+ units/year, 15 factories, 18 production lines), and rigorous quality control (ISO 9001, CE) shows they are serious about quality. KETE Values are: quality conscious, customer focus, innovation oriented, sustainability targeted, honesty emphasized. From custom solutions to after sales service offered, customers receive value in: production speed, cost reduction, and machine standby reliability.

Choosing a partner like this means you get more than just a machine; you get peace of mind and help for the long run.

Practical Operation and Maintenance Guide

Buying new equipment is just the first step. Using and taking care of it correctly is key to keeping it working well for a long time. It’s very important to train the people who will use the machine well. They need to understand all the machine’s features and safety rules.

Daily Operation Consejos:

• Prior to starting: Ensure that the power and air are connected properly, and verify that all safety components are fitted. Make sure that the ink trays, anilox rollers, and printing plates are clean and properly positioned.
• Loading material: Maintain steady tension while ensuring that material is loaded onto the unwind unit smoothly.
• Setting parameters: Based on the label design and material, make sure that the printing speed, color registration, tension, and drying temperature are within correct settings.
• Observing during printing: Maintain color, registration, and quality of the printed labels while adjusting where necessary. Managing any odd noises or working conditions from the machine is important too.
• Stopping and cleaning: Follow proper steps to sequentially stop the machine after printing is finished. For prevention of dry ink, prompt cleaning of the ink system, anilox rollers, and doctor blades is imperative.

Regular Mantenimiento Suggestions:

• Daily/Per Shift: Clean the ink trays, anilox rollers, and doctor blades. Check the ink thickness. Clean ink and dust from the machine surface and work area.
• Weekly: Check moving parts (gears, belts) for wear or looseness. Add lubrication if needed. Check that the air paths in the dryer are clear. Check that safety devices are working correctly.
• Monthly: Check that all bolts and connections are tight. Check the lubrication of bearings. Clean or replace air filters. Check cables and tubes for aging or damage.
• Quarterly/Every Six Months: Have skilled technicians check and maintain the machine completely. This includes the electrical system, control system, and air system. Calibrate important settings.
• Spare Parts: Keep a reasonable stock of parts that wear out often (like doctor blades, seals, some sensors) so you can replace them quickly and avoid stopping the machine.

Thinking of maintenance as the equipment’s regular health check can help stop problems before they happen, make the machine last longer, and keep the print quality steady.

Future Innovations of Flexo Printing Press

The progress made in flexo printing technology is continuously changing. Coming changes are predicted to be in greater automation (less human interaction, improved precision, and better tempo), merging with digital printing for hybrid printing (flexo’s quick pace with digital’s agility to shift information), more environmentally friendly inks, lower energy consumption, smarter problem solving and remote troubleshooting via the Internet of Things, and intelligent operational eco-efficiency through IoT. These changes will make flexo printing technology smarter and more efficient.

Conclusión

Flexo label printing machines are quite essential in today’s modern industry due to their effectiveness in label creation. Making the right choice of model entails deciding on certain prerequisites, assessing options, and reputation of the manufacturer, including prospective support services. In addition, proper use and maintenance of the device influence its long-term operational efficiency and effectiveness. We hope that the guiding information provided in this document will assist you in selecting a flexo label printer that best fits your business needs, and boosts your investment, market growth, and competitiveness.