‘Transformation of Flexo’ enters a new phase: Kodak announces Flexcel NX Ultra Solution

Packaging Solutions

Kodak has announced another revolutionary innovation – its Flexcel NX Ultra solution. This new solution is the result of Kodak's continued research and development investment in flexo, which has repeatedly produced progressive advancements in recent years.

The Flexcel NX Ultra Solution enables the outstanding and proven print performance for which the plates have become well known, with solvent free, VOC free, water based processing that can deliver a press ready plate in less than an hour and sustain clean, consistent plates in a high volume production environment.

Enabled by new, innovative and patent-pending Kodak Ultra Clean technology, the Flexcel NX Ultra Solution is the first aqueous solution that provides consistent, high performing flexo plates in a high volume, low maintenance environment.

‘Kodak has established a track record of technical innovation in the flexo space that drives growth and business success for our customers. We are focused on solving complex technical challenges. Kodak Ultra Clean technology has solved the fundamental challenge of ‘inconsistency’ traditionally associated with aqueous processed flexo plates and will enable printers to take advantage of our industry-leading plate technology without the hassle of solvent processing,’ said Chris Payne, president, Flexographic Packaging Division and vice president of Kodak. ‘The Flexcel NX Ultra 35 Solution is the first product to be commercialized from the Ultra NX technology demonstration that we previewed at drupa two years ago and has undergone extensive customer beta trials in demanding production environments. We are passionate about bringing robust technologies to market and extremely encouraged by the positive experiences of our early adopters.’

The system includes the proven Flexcel NX for outstanding imaging paired with the new Flexel NX Ultra Processing System and new Flexcel NX Ultra Plate, delivering a complete end to end plate making solution from Kodak. The all in one processing system combines exposure, washout, drying and finishing in an easy to use, robust system with automated cleaning cycles.

Flexcel NX Ultra Plates utilise the proven Kodak flat top dot structure and are fully compatible with NX Advantage technology and patented Advanced Edge Definition for an unprecedented level of ink transfer control during printing that delivers superb quality and production efficiency benefits. The plates will be available in thicknesses of 1.14 mm and 1.70 mm and are ideal for label, paperboard and flexible packaging applications.

The first product to be made available will be the Kodak Flexcel NX Ultra 35 Solution, which can produce plates up to 889 x 1219.2 mm in size. Product is due to ship in the first quarter of 2019, initially for the North American market.