Innov8 Graphics goes digital with Xeikon’s ThermoflexX

Innov8, owned by partners, Niket Sheth and Saurabh Pimpale, operated a conventional flexo platemaking system and it had become increasingly difficult to meet the demands of its customers which operated in the lamitube and labels segments. “We had reached a point where we had to go the digital way, as we needed a system that would provide us faster throughput. We have a long term relationship with Repro Graphics as a supplier of consumables, plus, we received favourable feedback from its customers who have installed ThermoflexX platemaking equipment, and hence decided to invest in the Flint platemaking system,” said Sheth.

The ThermoflexX 30 is capable of firing plates at a resolution of 5080dpi, which Sheth said, enables us to address market demand of best possible smaller screen dot, small details and image contrast. ThermoFlexX software MultiPlate, which enables smart grouping of job data on plates, and fast job set-up and remakes, is included in the system package. This is integrated with Hybrid Software’s workflow, a task made simple by the concept of openness and modularity, said Pimpale.

“The ThermoflexX imagers can accept 1-bit Tiff from any workflow or front end. Its unique vacuum slider concept is an excellent solution for imaging partial plates without compromising registration. The machine can address any of the resolution, 2400, 2540, 4000, 4800 or 5080 dpi, with the auto-resolution switching as an option.”

The Nyloprint processor offers plate processing with less mechanical stress due to a plush washout system that prevents washing away of fine elements, and a programmed temperature-controlled washout system. Innov8, established in 2000 derives its experience from its older sister company Sidheshwar Arts, a trade shop for processing of dry offset and letterpress plates.

The trade shop, which operates from a 1,000 sqft site in Malad, Mumbai, used to produce around 750 sqm of flexo plates per year. “Within days of implementation of the new system, we have more than doubled our output, with consistency and sharpness, which is critical in today’s market,” said Pimpale. Aneesh Raj, general manager at Repro Graphics, said, “We are excited about the customer feedback on machine performance, and growing market demands and installations.”