As the flexographic printing industry continues to evolve, sustainability and environmental responsibility are more important than ever. One of the most impactful advancements in this area is the adoption of water wash plates. These innovative plates offer a greener alternative to traditional solvent-based platemaking, helping printers reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on quality or efficiency.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of water wash plates, how they work, and why Anderson & Vreeland is your trusted partner for eco-friendly flexo solutions.
What Are Water Wash Plates?
Water wash plates are photopolymer printing plates designed for flexography that can be processed using water and mild detergent, rather than harsh chemical solvents. This makes them an ideal choice for printers seeking to reduce their use of hazardous chemicals and improve workplace safety.
Benefits of Water Wash Plates
- Environmentally Friendly
- Reduced Chemical Use: Water wash plates eliminate the need for volatile organic compound (VOC) solvents, significantly lowering hazardous waste and emissions.
- Cleaner Waste Streams: Wastewater from plate processing is far less harmful than solvent waste, making disposal safer and easier.
- Improved Workplace Safety
- Healthier, Toxin-Free Work Environment: By removing solvents from the platemaking process, water wash plates help create a safer, more comfortable workspace for operators.
- Simplified Compliance: Reducing hazardous chemicals can help your facility meet environmental regulations and safety standards more easily. Safety features also include component fuses and a UV safety switch for UV lamps.
- High-Quality Print Results
- Consistent Performance: Modern water wash plates deliver exceptional print quality, durability, and fine detail, rivaling or surpassing traditional solvent plates. They achieve excellent resistance with solvent-based, water-based, alcohol-based, and UV inks.
- Faster Turnaround: Water wash platemaking is quicker, ready in less than one hour, with shorter drying times and less handling, allowing for greater production efficiency.
- Enhanced Efficiency: The dual orbital action of the washout plate against the horizontal brush provides an efficient and smooth washout.
- Cost Savings
- Lower Operating Costs: By eliminating expensive solvents and reducing waste disposal fees, water wash plates can help lower your overall production costs. The plates are press-ready in less than one hour, dramatically reducing press downtime.
- Reduced Maintenance: Equipment used for water wash platemaking typically requires less maintenance and has a longer lifespan.
- Corrosion-Resistant & Space-Saving: The stainless steel washout section helps to prevent corrosion, and this versatile, stack-style processor is the perfect solution for crowded working areas.
How Water Wash Plates Work
The process for creating water wash plates is similar to traditional platemaking, with one key difference: instead of using chemical solvents to remove unexposed photopolymer, water and a mild detergent are used. This not only simplifies the workflow but also makes it much more environmentally responsible.
Water Wash Plate Solutions from Anderson & Vreeland
Anderson & Vreeland is committed to helping flexographic printers adopt sustainable practices without sacrificing quality or productivity. As a leader in flexo technology, A&V offers a range of water wash plate solutions and supporting equipment to streamline your eco-friendly platemaking process.
Comprehensive Platemaking Equipment
- Anderson & Vreeland provides and manufactures advanced platemaking equipment specifically designed for water wash plates, ensuring precise and efficient plate processing.
Expert Support and Integration
- With over 60 years of experience, the A&V team offers expert guidance on integrating water wash plate technology into your workflow, from equipment selection to process optimization. Our team will complete the installation and training with every piece of equipment purchased for your peace of mind, too.
Tailored Solutions for Every Application
- Whether you print labels and flexible packaging, envelopes, corrugated, or other substrates, Anderson & Vreeland can recommend the ideal water wash plate and equipment combination for your unique needs.
Why Choose Anderson & Vreeland for Water Wash Plates?
- Industry-Leading Expertise: Decades of experience in flexographic printing and a deep understanding of sustainable technologies.
- Innovative Portfolio: Access to the latest water wash plates and eco-friendly platemaking equipment.
- Unrivaled Support: Dedicated customer service and technical support to ensure seamless integration, installation and training for ongoing success.
Water Wash Plates from Anderson & Vreeland
Switching to water wash plates is a smart, sustainable move for any flexographic printer aiming to reduce environmental impact, improve workplace safety, and maintain top-tier print quality. Anderson & Vreeland stands ready to help you make the transition with expert advice, advanced equipment, and ongoing support. Take the next step toward a greener future in flexo and explore water wash plate solutions with Anderson & Vreeland today!
Ready to make your flexo operation more eco-friendly? Contact Anderson & Vreeland’s expert team for tailored solutions and discover how water wash plates can transform your business.
