The new Miraflex, freshly arrived, is currently under installation and is expected to be operational by September 2024.
The wide-web flexo press, capable of runs of up to 500m/min, is fitted with a 100% inspection camera system, and automated setup, changeover, drying and washup capabilities, will provide Coveris a 10% reduction in energy usage compared to its outgoing press, as well as saving on material, makereadies and ink.
Stephen Hinchly, managing director of Coveris’ UK flexibles business, said the timing “could not be better” for the company to expand its HD print offering, as it had just won three gold awards at the UK Flexographic Industry Association awards for flexo print, brand management and technical innovation.
“This latest investment allows us to deliver leading quality, more efficiently and sustainably than ever before for our customers, whilst also futureproofing our business for further expansion into new and existing markets through our commitment to best-in-class print,” Hinchly said.
The new press, installed alongside other W&H machinery as part of a £3m investment round, will increase the Burnley site’s HD print capacity by 25% – an increase warranted by increasing customer demand, according to Coveris.
As part of the investment, the company will also expand its specialty conversion capabilities – in particular, slitting – with a focus on sustainable barrier and paper films for the bakery, confectionery and fresh food film markets. The company has also committed to “major R&D” for next-generation plate technology, working with Coveris’ graphics service partner Rivendell.
Mark Faulkner, head of Coveris’ operational excellence for its printing segment, told Printweek: “Coveris’ sister company Rivendell are a leading manufacturer of plate technology for flexo print. Together we are continuously developing new technical plate hardware to drive the next generation of sustainable, HD, print.”
He added that the new press would help “standardise” the firm’s offering, with HD print as a particular selling point for customers.
The purchase comes as Coveris puts the finishing touches on the installation of its £3m ten-colour Comexi press at its flagship Louth facility. With a 1.7m-wide web, the machine is capable of delivering speeds up to 600m/min.
The Coveris group is responsible for €1bn (£857m) in global sales, employing 150 at its Burnley site, with 2,250 staff across the UK.
