Miraclon launches KODAK FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution in Latin America
Solvent-free and VOC-free flexo plate making solution enables a press-ready plate in less than an hour
Miraclon, home of KODAK FLEXCEL Solutions, has announced the commercial availability of its FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution for the Latin American region. Officially launched in Mexico City last night, the eagerly awaited water-based processing technology allows users to enjoy the same on-press efficiency, consistency, repeatability, increased plate life and overall sustainability benefits that FLEXCEL NX Plates have become known for over a decade ago, but with the additional advantage of being able to produce a press-ready plate in less than an hour. The VOC-free and solvent-free processing operation also meets a growing need from converters and brands.
Originally launched for the US market in 2018, the FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution is an addition to the award-winning family of FLEXCEL NX products and takes advantage of all the imaging and print performance capabilities of the core FLEXCEL NX Technology. Enabled by patented KODAK Ultra Clean technology developed by the Miraclon R&D team, it provides consistent, high-performing flexo plates in a high volume, low maintenance environment.
A complete solution
The FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution includes the proven FLEXCEL NX System for world-class imaging, paired with the new FLEXCEL NX Ultra Processing System and FLEXCEL NX Ultra Plate, as an end-to-end platemaking solution. The processing system combines exposure, washout, drying and finishing in an easy-to-use, robust system with automated cleaning cycles.
FLEXCEL NX Ultra Plates utilize the proven flat top dot structure and advanced plate surface patterning available to all FLEXCEL NX System users, and enables excellent ink transfer control during printing that delivers multiple production efficiency benefits without impacting print quality. The plates will be available in thicknesses of 1.14 mm and 1.70 mm and are ideal for flexible packaging, paperboard and label applications.
“The FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution is proving to be a robust, reliable alternative to solvent processing for platemakers globally, with customers, especially converters with in-house operations, reporting new levels of efficiency for the benefit of everyone involved in the packaging value chain,” comments Miraclon CEO, Chris Payne.
“Miraclon is focused on innovations that solve fundamental technical flexo challenges, and our KODAK Ultra Clean Technology addresses the inconsistency traditionally associated with aqueous processed flexo plates. Users are proving that the FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution is enabling them to drive the transformation of flexo and better meet brands’ needs, supporting growth and business success. We look forward to our customers in Latin America being able to do the same.”
Armando Rodriguez, Commercial and General Manager, Miraclon, Latin America, adds: “The Latin American flexo market is dynamic, with prepress and print providers continuously pushing the boundaries of flexo. With the production efficiencies along with the sustainability benefits it brings, the FLEXCEL NX Ultra Solution offers our customers another option in their drive to meet these goals.”
The KODAK FLEXCEL NX Ultra 35 Solution can produce plates up to 35″ x 48″ (889 x 1219.2 mm) in size.