Esko Release 21.11 offers more speed and efficiency

The new release offers a host of new features and functions, including improvement for the Automation Engine allowing SaaS users to reduce data storage costs with a new cloud storage facility. The enhanced integration and new performance tools will also help optimize workflow processes for users and ensure a completely connected workflow with more MIS partners.

Flexo Engine, included as part of Automation Engine, is a new technology that merges functionality, automation, and a host of features developed to increase flexo plate room productivity. A new intuitive dashboard also helps to simplify operations. Auto Plate Cut further drives efficiency by automating the set-up of staggered cut plates. Esko claims this functionality will save operators around 15 minutes per job.

PlateID, a part of Flexo Engine, eliminates the need for handwritten labels and etching by automating the plate marking process, accurately imaging vital information with no additional hardware or steps to the workflow. PlateID ensures clear, permanent marking and removes the risk of ink loss in addition to the risk of manual error during marking. 

Esko will also introduce the new Layout Edition of ArtPro+, including essential step and repeat functionality and a CAD-based sheet layout for improved speed. It will feature pre-press functionality to validate received artwork, such as Preflight, Inspectors, and QA viewing, plus tools to create barcodes, new reporting and VDP templates, and dynamic marks.

As with Automation Engine, the latest WebCenter release features new simplified dashboard views. New usability enhancements and feature walk-throughs are designed to manage tasks and workflows easier, and simplified deployment means users can now benefit from simpler and easier upgrades to newer WebCenter versions across sites.

The new spectral measurement tool, AVT SpectraLab XF, delivers in-line absolute color measurement at high press speeds. It measures L*a*b*, density and dot gain on flexible packaging and folding carton applications, comparable with offline devices, but all at point of print for maximum efficiency. With standard design and easy correlation to offline handheld instruments through a special calibration process, it is as simple to use as it is accurate.

‘As a long-term partner to our customers, we are committed to innovating to ensure our solutions remain up to date and relevant, empowering and enabling anyone using them in the packaging value chain to benefit from operational efficiency, quality, and sustainability improvements,’ commented Jan De Roeck, director of marketing, industry relations and strategy at Esko. Many of the updates are focused on enabling customers to leverage the benefits of cloud technology, which will boost connectivity, deliver further operational efficiencies and drive productivity across their entire workflow.

‘Whilst further enhancements point to improved usability and the introduction of more automation and advanced reporting tools. These additions will further accelerate the business benefits Esko solutions have been delivering to users worldwide. 

‘The pandemic has accelerated existing packaging megatrends and added a fresh impetus for innovation. This latest release underlines our commitment to working with customers to develop solutions they need to meet the challenges faced today while anticipating future needs.’

The new release will be launched at a live Esko Innovation Summit, held in the UK on November 18, 2021.