When you visit flexo shops across Canada, you’ll often hear about daily processes and procedures that, while effective, still pose productivity challenges. This was the case when I visited a Canadian firm with various narrow and mid-web flexo presses. They were looking for a fluid control system that could streamline press washouts and reduce downtime between jobs. At Anderson & Vreeland, we were ready to meet this challenge with a new flexo machine designed to enhance their workflow.

The Heart of the Flexo Machine System

Our approach to designing and building this new flexo machine involved working closely with our customer to tailor a system that met their specific needs for fluid control and washout efficiency. The core of the flexo machine system is a pneumatic, double-diaphragm pump. 

This pump ensures a consistent and controlled ink flow during printing and automates the ink washout process when changing jobs. A simple turn of a few quarter-turn valves moves ink out of the chamber and back to a drum while the solvent cleans out any remaining ink, allowing for quick replenishment with fresh ink. This flexibility is crucial for efficiently handling color changes and minimizing press downtime.

Mobile and Compact Flexo Machine

A standout feature of our new flexo machine is its mobility. Designed to be repositioned easily, it can serve multiple decks on a single press or be used across several presses. The system is compact, measuring approximately 36” high and wide and 34” deep, and arrives fully assembled and ready for use with only a connection to shop compressed air needed.

No Electricity Required

One of the most unique aspects of this flexo machine is its pneumatic operation, eliminating the need for electrical components. This design choice reduces costs, simplifies the system, and enhances reliability. Pneumatic double-diaphragm pumps are less complex and more durable than their electrical counterparts, making them a dependable choice for the flexo industry.

Designed for Solvents

While the system is compatible with water-wash presses, it is optimized for solvent use, which remains the preference in most flexo shops. We used stainless steel in the construction to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal, as opposed to the painted plain steel commonly used in other systems.

The Extra Dimension of Flexo Machine Design

We transitioned from 2D to 3D design to more effectively identify potential issues. This approach allowed us to address problems that might have been overlooked in traditional 2D designs.

Proudly Canadian

The new flexo machine was designed and built entirely in Canada, with assembly and shipping occurring within a few weeks of ordering. Collaborating with familiar machine shops and metal fabricators, we incorporated their expertise into the design process.

The new flexo machine system is designed for narrow and mid-web flexo shops, with customization options to meet specific needs. Its ability to ensure consistent ink flow, reduce wash-up time, and boost production efficiency makes it a valuable addition to any flexo shop. Contact us at 888-832-1600 to learn how this Canadian-designed flexo machine can enhance your shop’s performance.

By Richard Heaps

Technical Sales Representative