The REAL story on Vacuum Transfer
Over the last few years, we've been hearing and reading of many ways to improve high-quality graphic printing - add laser anilox rolls, enclosed (chambered) doctor blade systems, better quality printing plates, high-end inks, better monitoring of pH and viscosity of the inks, better crew training, etc. But, we haven't heard much about vacuum transfer and what it can do to improve print quality.
What is vacuum transfer? Vacuum transfer is simply the transporting of a board through a press, by using a vacuum to hold down the board agunst moving wheels or belts. This method is used instead of the customary pull rolls with collars.
What are the benefits of vacuum transfer? Surprisingly, they are many:
- Excellent control of the board through the machine.
- Reduces problems with warped board by keeping sheets flat.
- Allows full use of the board for printing (no worries about pull collar placement).
- Eliminates crush caused by pull collars set too tight.
- No pull collars across wet ink.
- Creates space for future installation of between-color dryer heads.
- Caliper adjustable.
- Delivers board very close to the printing plate nip (no large gap between nips as with pull rolls).
- In many instances pull straps can be eliminated.
- Helps reduce die cut shock.
- Adding a vacuum transfer dwell station or after-dryer will completely eliminate die cut shock.
And the best point of all: Vacuum Transfer Systems can be retrofitted to just about any existing print unit made, top or bottom print! Up until now, vacuum transfer in print stations has only been available in new million dollar plus flexo machines. CMI can now retrofit your existing machines with vacuum transfer units, and it can be done right in your plant!
| Converting Machines Incorporated E-mail: sales@Try-CMI.com Phone: 503-286-4646 Fax: 503-286-2280 |
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