GHENT, Belgium – Esko has officially launched the Esko Quartz flexo ecosystem, its most advanced flexographic platemaking solution to date, now available for worldwide ordering.
“When we debuted the Quartz ecosystem at drupa, we called it the pinnacle of flexo platemaking,” said Pascal Thomas, Director of Flexo Product Management at Esko. “After further refinements and valuable input from early adopters, we’re proud to now deliver this breakthrough globally. First shipments are expected by September.”
A Leap Forward in Imaging and Print Quality
The Quartz ecosystem complements Esko’s renowned Crystal platform, introducing a dual optics system optimized for both legacy and next-generation flexo platemaking. With Quartz Screening technology, users benefit from 4000ppi imaging resolution—nearly double the industry standard—and 2000lpi Q-Cell microstructures that enhance ink transfer, improve tonal range, and rival rotogravure in print quality.
“This is a major leap forward in flexo plate imaging,” said Thomas. “These imaging capabilities enable smoother ink laydown, higher density, and finer detail—translating to cleaner, more vibrant prints.”
Customer Proven: Gravure-Like Results
Inci.Flex Srl, a leading prepress provider based in Salerno, Italy, was among the first to adopt the new Quartz system. “This technology delivers results on par with gravure,” said CEO Vincenzo Consalvo. “We’re seeing significantly improved ink coverage, contrast, and shadow detail, plus cleaner solids with no dot bridging.”
Total Solution for Maximum Impact
The Quartz ecosystem integrates Esko’s award-winning Print Control Wizard software and XPS Crystal exposure technology to deliver precise, repeatable results. Enhanced screening options—including Variable Highlight (VQ) and Stochastic Q-Cells (SQ)—drive unmatched screening accuracy, enabling fine highlight fades and robust solids on a single plate.
“Quartz forms a perfect synergy of hardware and software,” noted Jan De Roeck, CMO at Esko. “The system simplifies flexo platemaking while raising the bar on final print quality.”
Sustainability and Compatibility
Beyond image quality, the Quartz system supports printers’ sustainability goals by reducing ink usage and enabling full compatibility with both solvent and water-based inks. Water-based applications can see a solid ink density increase of up to 0.7, a significant enhancement for eco-conscious operations.
Key Features of the Esko Quartz Ecosystem
- Unmatched imaging resolution: 4000ppi with 2000lpi Q-Cells
- Superior print quality: Smoother solids, deeper shadows, and improved contrast
- Eliminates dot-bridging: Cleaner fades and sharper details
- Expanded tonal range: Supports finer anilox rollers for superior print dynamics
- Eco-friendly performance: Less ink consumption, enhanced water-based ink support
The Esko Quartz ecosystem is now available in sizes 4835, 4260, and 5080, and includes the CDI Quartz imager, XPS Crystal exposure unit, Quartz screening, and a premium care plan.
