Creo launches sleeve-imaging flexo CTP

Creo has launched its new generation ThermoFlex CTP device with sleeve imaging.

The first of the new ThermoFlex devices is being installed this month. It images variable repeat sleeves while retaining the ability to image digital flexographic and rotary letterpress plates, and film with formats up to 52 x 80 in. (1321 x 2032 mm).

This design provides flexibility for trade shops and converters which run digital plates, digital plates-on-sleeves and continuous sleeves, depending on the requirements of a specific customer or job.

The new ThermoFlex includes semi-automatic changeover from plate imaging to sleeve imaging and accommodates sleeves with repeats up to 42 in. (1050 mm) and lengths up to 72 in. (1829 mm) in both continuous digital photopolymer sleeve and digital plate-on-sleeve formats.

Although sleeves are traditionally a technology seen in wide web CI presses, there is growing interest amongst narrow and mid web press developers. Omet, for example, launched its Varyflex press with integrated sleeves at Labelexpo Americas last year.

At the same time, Esko-Graphics announced the launch of the latest CDI Advance flexo CTP system , which also allows for the dual use of plates and sleeves. The CDI Advance will be available in three productivity levels: the CDI Advance 15(1.5 m/hour), the CDI Advance 25(2.5 m/hour) and the CDI Advance 40(4.0 m/hour).