The large-format imager for high-volume flexo platemaking exposes plates of up to 1.3x2m (50x80in), and is suitable for wide-web applications, such as flexible and cardboard packaging.
The Thermoflexx 80 is the largest in the range, which also comprises the 18, 20, 30, 48 and 60 models.
The device offers a range of a resolutions including 2,400, 2,540, 4,000, 4,800 and 5,080dpi. At maximum resolution it can image 3.75sqm/hr, although the manufacturer added that upgrades, available from the beginning of 2014, will enable the platesetter to image significantly faster.
Other key features, designed to reduce plate manipulation, include a new automatic plate clamping system to simplify plate loading and unloading, meanwhile plates can either be held in place by vacuum or magnetically. The need to cut plates to fit a dedicated vacuum zone has been eliminated because the Thermoflexx 80 is built with a vacuum slider to provide greater flexibility of plate width.
Xeikon's prepress director of sales and marketing Christophe Lievens said the device offered unique quality. "With this device and the option of 5,080dpi, we are offering a very high quality for the flexo printing industry. If high resolution is required, it is possible to switch between two resolutions at any time.
"The flexo printing industry is, just like the entire printing industry, a very competitive business and printers need to differentiate in order to be better. This is what we put a lot of focus on; we produce equipment which helps our customers to become more competitive. The new features we are introducing on our Thermoflexx equipment offer our customer flexibility, quality, productivity and cost efficiency," he added.
Lievens said that price would be dependent on configuration and commercial availablity was expected from December.
The Thermoflexx 80 will be demonstrated for the first time at Labelexpo on 24-27 September, where visitors will also be able to see the results of Xeikon’s recently launched dry ICE toner for digital label presses.
Also currently in development is Xeikon’s Trillium liquid toner, which was first announced at Drupa 2012.
In an update in July, the manufacturer said development was on schedule and that the first beta sites would be up and running from spring 2014, with commercial availability expected in the US around six months later.
