With a tool-free concept inherited from the earlier F4 press, the F2 is all about efficiency, reduced waste, reduced costs and fast changeover times. Meeting the needs of medium and long runs, the F2 runs at higher speeds, opening doors to previously out-of-reach markets.
Manufactured by Comexi in Spain, the F2’s eight-colour printing decks are mounted horizontally in a radial pattern around the central drum, occupying minimal space and improving accessibility, while its monobloc frame minimises vibration and ultimately improves print quality.
The F2’s engine control is another key element. ‘Collaboration between Comexi and Siemens sees the integration of the gearless DDDrive, CNC and servo motors based on the Simotion control system. This direct drive system is the most advanced in the market, reaching the highest levels of precision and eliminating mechanical transmission,’ explains Advanced Packaging Technology’s director, Gary Kieswetter.
However, not all gearless systems are created equal. Comexi’s VIRTUALMaster technology unites motors electronically and controls them via a common virtual signal, ensuring registration even during acceleration and braking stages. This guarantees perfectly-aligned surface speeds of the material, the plate cylinder and anilox, improving print quality. The VIRTUALMaster also performs direct, automatic and rapid positioning of longitudinal registration between printing decks, decreasing waste generated during adjustment, and regulating and memorising the positions of longitudinal registration for future projects.
It’s a matter of minutes to change anilox and plate cylinder sleeves. Comexi’s new doctor blade support system allows for disassembly without having to disconnect the inking lines.
‘The F2 represents excellence in ergonomics and usability thanks to an overhead platform that allows access to all elements requiring maintenance and cleaning,’ Gary points out.
The drying system comprises two circuits that evaporate solvent or water content by blowing hot air at high speeds. Its unwinders and rewinders eliminate downtime by utilising a turret system that automatically changes and splices the reels at production speeds.
With a printing width of 1 270mm and web width of 1 320mm, the Flexo F2 runs at 500m/min with 350mm to 850mm repeats.
Summing up, Gary says: ‘This gearless press, fitted with Comexi’s Cingular modules for managing pressure adjustments and registration, while significantly reducing waste, offers significant energy savings, increased accessibility and easy maintenance.’
[Ed’s note: The home of Africa’s first Comexi Flexo F2 will be revealed in a forthcoming issue of PPM.]
Advanced Packaging Technology
T +27 021 5552825
Comexi
www.comexi.com
