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Flexographic printing (flexo) is a popular high-speed, high-volume printing method, especially for packaging materials such as labels, corrugated boxes, and flexible films. Two common flexographic presses are center-impression and stack-type flexographic presses. Although they serve similar purposes, their design, function, and applications are quite different.

Center-impression flexographic press

Design and construction

Single center-impression cylinder: Center-impression flexographic presses use a large center cylinder (impression cylinder) around which multiple printing stations are arranged.

Unit configuration: Each printing unit (for different colors) is arranged radially around the center cylinder.

Key benefits

Excellent registration accuracy: The single impression cylinder ensures minimal substrate movement, resulting in excellent print registration.

High-speed performance: Absolutely stable web tension control, ideal for long runs and large volumes.

Better print quality: Reduced risk of misregistration, suitable for fine details and multi-color printing.

Common applications
Flexible packaging (film, bags)
High-quality labels
Multi-layer composite films

Stacked flexographic printing presses

Design and construction
Modular stacking design: Each printing unit is stacked vertically or horizontally as an independent unit.

Independent impression cylinder: Each printing station has an independent impression cylinder.

Main advantages

Substrate adaptability: Can handle a wide range of materials, including thicker substrates such as corrugated cardboard.

Easy maintenance and setup: Independent units can be quickly switched and adjusted.

Cost-effective short runs: Small batches are more economical due to lower setup costs.

Common applications
Corrugated box printing
Paper bags and sacks
Simple label printing

Key differences between CI flexo and Stack flexo

Which one should you choose?

Choose CI Flexo if:

You need high-precision, multi-color printing.
Your production involves flexible films or high-quality labels.
You need high-speed, high-volume printing.

Choose Stack Flexo if:

You print on thicker materials, such as corrugated board.
Your production involves frequent job changeovers (short runs).
Budget constraints are an issue.

Conclusion

CI Flexo and Stack Flexo presses each have their strengths. CI Flexo excels at high-speed, high-quality printing, while Stack Flexo offers flexibility and cost-effectiveness for a wide range of substrates. Understanding these differences can help businesses choose the right flexographic press for optimal productivity and print quality.