Jet Technologies has announced the availability of AFP-R reduced solvent flexographic plates from Asahi Photoproducts to enhance press efficiency.
The company says the AFP-R plate represents a breakthrough in platemaking technology, boasting a 50 per cent reduction in platemaking time and a 30 per cent reduction in solvent use. It adds that these plates last twice as long on press compared to other solvent-wash plates, marking a substantial improvement in operational efficiency and environmental impact.
Jack Malki, director at Jet Technologies, highlighted the significant benefits of the AFP-R plates, stating, “The introduction of Asahi’s AFP-R plates is significant for Australian and New Zealand printers. These plates ensure a dramatic reduction in platemaking time and solvent use. In addition, they support our clients’ goals for sustainability without compromising on quality or productivity.”
Designed for high-quality flexible packaging, label, and paper applications the AFP-R plate embodies Asahi Photoproducts’ commitment to sustainability. It forms part of Asahi’s Roadmap to Solvent Zero initiative, featuring reduced environmental impact while enhancing prepress and press productivity.
Asahi says the incorporation of Asahi’s CleanPrint technology enables clients to achieve better press efficiency, with plates lasting on average twice as long due to reduced need for press stops for plate cleaning. This technology ensures that all remaining ink transfers to the printed substrate, further reducing makeready time, ink consumption, and delivering exceptionally consistent quality.
Malki adds, “We expect to see some great outcomes for our customers in their platemaking and printing processes. This technology is expected to double the lifespan of plates by significantly reducing the need for press stops for cleaning. We anticipate that CleanPrint will ensure a more efficient transfer of all remaining ink to the printed substrate, which will not only reduce makeready time and ink consumption but also deliver exceptionally consistent quality across all our projects.”
