Jan Buchweitz, senior product manager for Esko, described the 2420 as the "missing piece" of the CDI range, which includes the CDI Spark models 1712, 2120 and 2530.

The CDI Spark 2420, which produces 609x508mm plates, has been developed to fit within the existing portfolio of the 635x762mm 2530, and the 533x508mm 2120.

The 2420 can handle a range of materials, including flexo and foil-letterpress plates, which Buchweitz said were most often used for tag and label printing. Additionally, it can handle metal-based letterpress, suited for can printing, rota plates used in silk screen applications and chemistry free films. It is best suited for narrow web printing presses, Buchweitz said.

It can produce between 0.75 and 1.5sqm an hour depending on the Optics system chosen by the customer. Users can upgrade from the standard 2000ppi to high resolution 2540ppi or HD Flexo 4000ppi for best quality results.

CDI Spark's standard EasyClamp is featured on the latest 2420 model, which holds flexo plates of any size in place on the vacuum drum during imaging.

Buchweitz recommended that potential buyers contact their local Esko dealer for price negotiation.

The CDI 2420 is available now and will be shown at demonstrations across its reseller platform in the coming months. Its first show is likely to be September's Labels Expo in Brussels, Buchweitz predicted.