Flexible packaging printers have historically needed to use multiple ink systems to meet specifications such as for surface printing with heat resistance, for PET lamination or for OPP lamination, but SunUno Solimax can meet all of those uses, reducing the number of ink systems needed by the printer.

Solimax, which consists of a range of colour formulations, can be used in both flexo and gravure print processes and is specifically intended for surface printing and adhesive lamination for various end-use applications such as lidding materials, medical laminates and food packaging. It is compatible with both solvent free and solvent based lamination systems.
 
According to Sun Chemical the product reduces production plant complexity and operational costs because it requires less press returns and less cleaning time.  

Sun Chemical European product manager Colin Smith said Solimax was developed to meet a market need and trend: "In western Europe generally print run lengths are decreasing but technical demands in terms of either regulatory or package performance are increasing. This gives an increasingly difficult situation for the printer to manage and operate efficiently.

"With a one-system approach the entire process is simplified. Only one system needs monitoring for regulatory, compliance issues etc, only one system needs assessing for worker safety," he added.

 "This is an important tool in the company’s drive to help customers educe complexity and improve efficiency."

Sun Chemical customer Bemis Elsham headquartered in Brigg, North Lincolnshire has been testing SunUno Solimax since the beginning of 2012.

Print manager Jim O’Donnell said the firm, which currently runs on a two ink system, would switch to the single ink Solimax system by the end of the year. "Not only will we significantly improve our environmental positioning with the multi-purpose system, we will also increase our efficiency and productivity which will ultimately improve our bottom line," he added.Tweet