Different Flexo Imagesetters

[meesh-lars]

Our Thermoflex has officially reached end of life. We mostly run linework and not a huge quantity of plates coming through. Kodak did the sales pitch for their system where the plates are laminated and then run through processing but honestly its more than we need.

What other imagesetters are people using? Any experience with the chemistry free options that are available?

Thanks!
Meesh

 

[ChrisZ]

Depends on your needs and budget. We run here Amsky plate setter. Cheap, small and reliable.
Chris

 

[Stephen Marsh]

Our Thermoflex has officially reached end of life. We mostly run linework and not a huge quantity of plates coming through. Kodak did the sales pitch for their system where the plates are laminated and then run through processing but honestly its more than we need.

What other imagesetters are people using? Any experience with the chemistry free options that are available?

Thanks!
Meesh

Sounds like you looked at Flexcel NX, where the TIL is laminated to the plate, prior to exposure… However there is also Kodak DITR, which is a high resolution thermal laser ablative film (no processing), which I believe does not require lamination to the plate (if that is the issue as you mainly do linework, so you don’t require the oxygen inhibition process for flat top dots).

https://www.kodak.com/au/en/print/Pr...lm/default.htm
https://www.kodak.com/au/en/print/Pr...es/default.htm


(Disclosure: I work for a Kodak dealer)


Stephen Marsh

 

[Slammer]

Depends on your needs and budget. We run here Amsky plate setter. Cheap, small and reliable.
Chris

The first time I saw an Amsky was at DRUPA before last and to tell the truth I was not impressed, it had the look and feel of a 1970ties Fiat, tinny and a bit wobbly, also the drum looked crude and almost unfinished with a pronounced seam running lengthways. It seems they have now gotten their act together by your description.

 

[meesh-lars]

Sounds like you looked at Flexcel NX, where the TIL is laminated to the plate, prior to exposure… However there is also Kodak DITR, which is a high resolution thermal laser ablative film (no processing), which I believe does not require lamination to the plate (if that is the issue as you mainly do linework, so you don’t require the oxygen inhibition process for flat top dots).

https://www.kodak.com/au/en/print/Pr...lm/default.htm
https://www.kodak.com/au/en/print/Pr...es/default.htm


(Disclosure: I work for a Kodak dealer)


Stephen Marsh

Stephen,
What platesetters do these run on?

 

[Stephen Marsh]

Stephen,
What platesetters do these run on?

That depends, am I going to get a commission from Kodak? :]

We only look after the AU & NZ territory, so what’s in it for me?

Just kidding!

DITR film can be processed on specific/qualified Kodak Thermoflex and Kodak Trendsetter thermal imagers (I believe that they may need to be equipped with a debris removal cabinet)… Further info see my first two lines! :]



Stephen Marsh