Sibress FlexoControl: New precision analyzer improves quality control in flexo platemaking
Tags: Sibress / Sibress FlexoControl
FlexoControl is a new, and amazingly convenient, analyzer from Sibress for end-to-end quality assurance and analyses of production parameters in the flexo platemaking process. The Sibress FlexoControl was specially developed to facilitate fast and precise measurements of imaged LAMS plates, finished flexo plates and film. The manufacturer, under German management but resident in Italy, has successfully broadened its portfolio for quality assurance in flexo and packaging printing with this innovative instrument.
Plate analyses with unbeatable precision and repeatability
The Sibress FlexoControl is a portable analyzer that can be used virtually anywhere. It is easy to operate and measures all halftones on flexo plates with a resolution of between 80 and 216 lpi (30 to 85/cm). The device also monitors individual printing dots, barcode line thicknesses, line pairs, etc.
The FlexoControl is connected to the PC or notebook with a 2 m long USB cable and powered from the computer via the USB2 port. The plate surface is captured using a special camera equipped with a 1.3 MP sensor. In conjunction with the Versatile@flex software, the Sibress FlexoControl provides unrivalled repeatability of less than ±0.5%. This completely reprogrammed software package runs on any modern PC platform under Windows 7, Vista or XP.
It only takes a few seconds to analyse and evaluate all the dots in the active image area (approx. 3 mm²). All the most important parameters, such as dot gain, screen ruling, dot diameter and size or angle, are visible at a glance. The software additionally presents the results of measurement series in clearly structured charts and as characteristic curves. The captured images and the graphic representations of the measured values can be archived and later reloaded to permit more in-depth analyses or statistical evaluations.
Auto-calibration guarantees unerring precision
The auto-calibration feature is yet another highlight of the FlexoControl. Together with the optional laser-etched calibration target, comprised of nine ultra-precise screen patches, this fully automated function guarantees accurate analyses over a very long period of time. This is a great advantage, particularly for companies that are required to test and calibrate their instrumentation at regular intervals in the framework of quality management. These users are now saved the recurring expense and effort of calibration by an external vendor. The test records of the fully automatic recalibration can likewise be stored for future reference.
The Sibress FlexoControl offers exceptional value for money. A light box with an integrated power supply is included. For more information about the FlexoControl and all other Sibress products, see www.sibress.com.
