Flexographic labels

Flexographic printing, commonly referred to as “flexo,” is a versatile and efficient printing method widely used for producing labels, packaging, and various other materials. The process involves the use of flexible relief plates, which are wrapped around rotating cylinders on a web press. These plates are inked, and then they transfer the ink directly onto the substrate, whether it’s paper, plastic, film, or foil. The flexibility of the plates allows them to print on a wide range of materials, making flexo a popular choice in the packaging industry.

Flexographic printing offers numerous advantages that make it an ideal choice for various applications:

• Speed and efficiency: Flexo presses are capable of high-speed printing, making them suitable for large production runs. This efficiency translates to cost savings for high-volume projects.

• Versatility: The ability to print on a wide range of substrates and the flexibility to use different types of inks make flexo highly adaptable.

• Durability: The photopolymer plates used in flexo printing are durable and can withstand long runs, maintaining high print quality throughout.

• Quality: With advancements in technology, flexo printing can achieve high-resolution prints with fine details, suitable for complex designs and vibrant colours.

We understand the importance of colour accuracy in branding and packaging. Our flexographic presses can print using spot Pantone colours, ensuring that your brand colours are reproduced with utmost precision. Additionally, we offer 4-colour process printing, allowing for the creation of vibrant, full-colour images that stand out on the shelf. This capability is ideal for complex designs and photographic elements, providing a visually striking finish.

The choice of ink can significantly impact the appearance and durability of your labels. At Links Labels Ltd, we offer both UV and water-based inks, tailored to the specific requirements of your application.

UV inks

UV inks are known for their quick curing times and excellent resistance to smudging and fading, making them ideal for high-quality, durable labels. The curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet light, which instantly dries the ink, resulting in sharp, vibrant prints. This makes UV inks particularly suitable for applications where durability and resistance to environmental factors are crucial.

Water-based inks

Water-based inks are an eco-friendly option that provides a great balance of quality and sustainability. These inks are also ideal for applications where curing UV ink would be problematic, such as when printing on direct thermal label materials. Direct thermal labels are sensitive to heat, and the curing process of UV inks can interfere with their functionality. Water-based inks, on the other hand, dry through evaporation and are gentler on the substrate, making them perfect for these specific applications.

One of the unique advantages we offer at Links Labels is the ability to combine our flexographic printing with digital printing and finishing technologies. This hybrid approach allows us to harness the strengths of both methods, providing you with labels that benefit from the best of both worlds.

We are able to print elements common to every design in a run with flexographic presses and then individualise labels using digital technologies thereafter. For example when printing 200 designs of peel and reveal labels where the inside print is common and the top layer is unique to each SKU.

Leveraging both technologies we are able to reduce cost and waste whilst providing flexibility and quality products to our customers.

Our stable of flexographic and digital printing technologies ensures that we provide superior quality, flexibility, and efficiency. Whether you require high-volume production, smaller runs or significant variation, we have the capabilities to fulfil your needs with precision and excellence.

Explore the possibilities with Links Labels and experience the benefits of our advanced flexographic printing capabilities combined with the innovative edge of digital technology. Contact us today to discuss your label printing requirements and discover how we can help.