Esko, a global leader in integrated software and hardware solutions for the packaging industry, has reached a significant milestone in its flexo platemaking solutions. The company announced that the 5000th unit of its market-leading CDI and XPS exposure equipment was recently installed at Inovar Packaging Group in Texas, USA.
“This is a remarkable achievement for Esko and our flexo platemaking solutions,” said Jan De Roeck, Director of Marketing, Industry Relations & Strategy at Esko. “For over 25 years, we have been dedicated to developing solutions that optimize lead times, maximize press uptime, and enhance overall efficiency. Reaching this milestone reflects the innovation of our development team and the trust our customers have placed in us globally.”
The journey began in 1996 when the first Esko CDI (Cyrel® Digital Imager) was installed at Warburger Klischee-Anstalt GmbH in Warburg, Germany. Two decades later, in 2016, Esko introduced the Crystal XPS LED plate exposure device, with the first unit installed at Glatz Klischee GmbH in Austria.
“Over the years, the CDI and XPS have continuously evolved to meet the changing demands of brands, converters, and plate suppliers,” said De Roeck. “The latest CDI Crystal leverages advanced optics and screening technology to produce flawless plates, enhancing print output and press stability for all flexo applications.”
The CDI Crystal has revolutionized plate room efficiency, reducing operator time by 73% and cutting manual steps and errors by 50%. Its advanced laser imaging technology and high-resolution optics ensure precision and clarity, while HD Flexo and Crystal technologies deliver top-quality plates for optimal print results.
Similarly, the XPS Crystal has supported brand owners in meeting the challenges of delivering high-quality packaging while accelerating sustainability commitments. In 2023, the XPS Crystal achieved Certified Energy Savings and Dematerialization certifications from GreenCircle, reflecting significant reductions in energy consumption and waste.
“The XPS Crystal’s UV LED array technology replaces traditional mercury tubes, ensuring consistent and high-quality exposure for flexo plates,” De Roeck explained. “This innovation not only enhances the quality of flexo plates but also simplifies the process with preset parameters that require just a single click per plate type and thickness.”
Looking ahead, Esko is already focusing on further innovation with the launch of the CDI Crystal XPS ‘Quartz Edition’ at drupa. “With this latest addition, we’re pushing the boundaries of quality even further, empowering flexo printers to deliver the highest quality results for their customers,” De Roeck concluded.
Esko’s milestone underscores its leadership in flexo platemaking, driving the industry forward with cutting-edge technology and a commitment to excellence.
