What Is Narrow Web Flexo Printing?
Narrow web flexo printing is the rotary and multiple in-line converting process, one of the two printing categories of a flexographic printing technique. There are two categories of flexographic printing in terms of print runs. One is wide web flexo printing, and the other is narrow web.
In this printing methodology the printing width equals to or less than 16 inches. Any print width greater than 16 inches will fall in the wide web flexo printing category. The narrow web is a suitable option for smaller and mid-sized manufacturers as they have to cater to smaller printing orders.
What Are the Distinctive Properties of Narrow Web Flexo Printing?
Narrow web flexo printing has a wide spectrum of properties, making it a viable printing option for small-scale industries and manufacturers. Some of the critical properties are mentioned as follows:
- It has a press speed of 150-200 meters/min.
- The ink viscosity of narrow web printing is 34 sec and #3 ZAHN. ZAHN is a viscosity measuring parameter for paints and inks.
- Due to higher viscosity, this printing is best for UV-based inks that will streamline the drying process.
- The printing width lies in the range of 10 to 16 inches.
- It is most viable for printing on polythene bags, flexible packaging, and labels with a small or medium-sized order quantity.
- The narrow web printing mechanism uses fountain rollers inking system.
What Are the Advantages of Narrow Web Flexo Printing?
Meeting The Requirements of Small Manufacturers:
This is a better approach for small manufacturers than the wide web methodology. This printing sector can easily manage small printing orders of labels and packaging. Therefore, it is time-saving and will perfectly adhere to the requirements of the small to mid-sized manufacturers.
Environmental Impact:
As discussed earlier in the properties section, this printing utilizes UV-based inks for best results. As a result, the VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions of narrow web printing are the least. Therefore, this method perfectly conforms to the environmental regulations.
UV curable inks for in narrow web will tender a quick drying. Thereby, narrow web printing is a practical step toward sustainable printing methodologies. Furthermore, it will not play a part in environmental degradation since this printing method has lesser wastage.
Smaller Printing Runs:
It is costly for small manufacturers to opt for the wide web printing technique. Therefore, the narrow web printing has been designed to meet the requirements of these small industries where they can complete small printing orders with a minimum possible waste factor.
Cost-Effective:
One of the most critical benefits of this printing is the cost-effectiveness compared to the wide web printing technique. The initial and long-term cost of narrow web printing is lesser, making it a feasible option for small to mid-sized businesses.
Narrow Web Flexo Printing: Final Crunch
Flexographic printing, as we know, is the most widely used printing technique and is undergoing technological advancements. There are two sections of flexographic printing: wide web and narrow web. The wide web is beneficial when you require substantial printing quantities.
On the contrary, the printing method has become a viable option for small converters who have to print mall to medium orders. It is also more feasible from the environmental perspective. Furthermore, the narrow web is viable for printing on polythene bags and packaging.
It is the most suitable to use with UV-based inks. You can check out Anyflexo for your narrow web flexo printing requirements. We provide components and assembling parts related to flexographic printing.
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