The manufacturer said the new PlateRite FX870IIE, which is intended as a high-quality flexo/letterpress option at a reduced cost, combines "production-level plate throughput with imaging resolutions of up to 4,800dpi".
The new machine is based on the FX870II model with new features such as the ability to optionally image thermal offset plates.
Productivity is around half that of the FX870II, imaging flexo plates at a rate of 2sqm/hr (approximately four 762x635mm plates per hour) depending on plate sensitivity.
Plates can be loaded in any size from 100x100mm up to 870x762mm without any additional handling or masking of the drum required.
The FX870IIE features a multi-channel, high-power laser diode imaging printhead offering an output resolution of 2,400dpi up to a maximum of 4,800dpi as a standard feature, delivering "outstanding" reproduction of very small characters and fine lines and greatly reducing ‘jaggies’ on diagonal lines and curves.
The new machine also supports Screen’s Flexo Dot screening, specifically designed to improve the highlight areas in flexo and letterpress printing.
Flexo Dot also provides a greater range of gradation, as the minimum halftone dot shape can be selected from three available types to suit the specifics of the highlight printing according to the platemaking environment and the inks and media.
Carlo Sammarco, packaging specialist, Screen Europe, said: "Our commitment to developing products that address the increasingly varied needs of the flexo, letterpress and label markets clearly demonstrates our commitment to delivering increased choice to the market."
