CLC (UK) Limited – Case Study

The Below Case Study is taken from the CLC (UK) Ltd New Press Installation article which can be found here - http://www.clc-uk.com/2016/10/14/new-press-installatiom/

CLC (UK) Ltd – installs Focus e-Flex 330 full servo press.

CLC (UK) Ltd, based in Loughborough UK, has taken delivery of an eFLEX 330 full servo flexo press, manufactured by Focus Label Machinery Ltd.

As well as the traditional narrow web products such as labels, tickets, roll etc; across several different market sectors. CLC have successfully developed into Smart media.

The decision to invest in the new press was taken in order to facilitate greater efficiency for existing product lines especially their growing market for integrated passive RFID (radio frequency identification), NFC (near field communication) and EAS (electrical article surveillance) This enables CLC to produce multi-feed across the web and the investment also to provides a new platform for expansion into new market areas.

The e-Flex is a fully servo driven, in-line modular press supplied with print widths of 330mm, 430mm & 510mm. Several different drying systems are available, including full UV, LED, Infra-Red – or combination drying systems, with optional chill rolls for heat sensitive substrates. The press frame has been designed to accommodate various dryer combinations, whilst still maintaining the shortest possible web path.  

Servo driven print cylinders and impression rolls enable point to point pre-register set up and full auto-register, resulting in quicker set up times, precise print registration and reduced material wastage across a range of substrates. Bearer rings are incorporated into the print cylinder assembly, to guarantee accurate print impression settings, regardless of substrate.

As well as flexo print heads, the print module has been designed to accommodate a monochrome or full colour digital inkjet system, for short run & variable data requirements.

A rail system is mounted along the top of the press, to allow optional overhead press equipment to be easily transported to the required position. Options such as turn-bar, delam-relam, cold foil, laminating, waste rewind turret, scanner systems, etc – can all be rail-mounted.

Mr Paul Simmons of CLC explained... ‘We like the open architecture design of the print stations. This enables easy loading of ink cartridges and print cylinders, so that interchangeable print cartridges can be partially or fully unloaded or exchanged, in order to minimise downtime. The print cartridge assemblies can be cleaned off press, allowing our operator to maintain uninterrupted production.’

Mr Simmons continued…‘we looked at a number of options, before deciding on the e-Flex. This press ticked all the boxes for us and we were impressed by the ease of operation and the accurate print registration – even through rapid speed changes. Not only does the e-Flex serve our present requirements, but the modular design will allow us to add further optional equipment if required in the future. Focus have been very helpful & professional, listening to our particular requirements and providing tailored solutions.’

David Lee of Focus Label Machinery commented ‘the e-Flex platform provides the possibility for stepped specification levels, according to client requirements and budget – but with built in essentials, such as high speed job changes, automated set ups and increased efficiency'.