Flexographic printing, commonly known as flexo printing, is a printing process that utilizes flexible relief plates and is well-suited for printing on a variety of substrates, including paper, plastic, metallic films, and more. "Reel to reel" refers to the continuous roll-to-roll printing process, where the substrate is fed in a continuous web or roll and the printed material is wound onto another roll.
This printing method uses flexible relief plates that are typically made of rubber or photopolymer. The plate is mounted on a rotating cylinder. Ink is applied to the raised areas of the plate, and then the plate comes into contact with the substrate, transferring the ink onto it.
Reel To Reel
In a reel-to-reel process, the substrate, often in the form of a continuous roll or web, is fed through the printing press. The printing process is continuous, allowing for efficient and high-speed production. The printed material is then wound onto another roll.
Flexographic reel-to-reel printing is commonly used in various industries, including packaging, label printing, and flexible packaging. It provides a cost-effective and versatile solution for producing high-quality prints on a variety of substrates with different ink types.
Reel To Sheet
"Reel to sheet" in flexo printing refers to a printing process where the substrate, typically a roll of material (reel), is fed through a flexographic printing press, and the output is sheets rather than a continuous roll.
In a reel-to-sheet flexo printing process, the substrate is initially in the form of a roll (reel). This roll is continuously fed through the printing press. However, instead of winding the printed material onto another roll, the output is cut into individual sheets.
The choice between reel-to-reel and reel-to-sheet processes depends on the specific requirements of the printing job and the desired format of the final product. Each method has its advantages and is chosen based on factors such as production speed, material requirements, and the intended use of the printed material.