Südpack expands flexographic printing capacity in Kłobuck

Südpack has expanded its flexographic printing capabilities by commissioning a high-performance printing system at its competence centre in Kłobuck, Poland. The machine, which went into operation in September, is intended to improve print quality, productivity and workflow efficiency while giving the company greater flexibility in handling individual customer requirements. It is designed to process a wide range of flexible packaging materials for food and non-food applications. According to the company, the system combines advanced automation with extensive digital capabilities and improved workplace ergonomics. It can handle extra-wide webs, long repeat lengths and high production speeds, allowing both large and small print runs to be produced under economically viable conditions. Faster changeovers and a streamlined process from prepress to the finished product are also expected to shorten lead times and support orders placed at short notice.

Print quality and production flexibility

The printing units are arranged in a star-shaped configuration. Combined with high-precision mounting of the printing-unit shafts, this design is intended to maintain print quality during complex jobs and at high operating speeds. The machine can process large print runs quickly, while short changeover times make smaller batches more economical.

The standardised printing process is also designed to reduce potential sources of error. This supports consistent, reproducible print images throughout a production run and when repeat orders are processed.

The system is Industry 4.0-ready and can connect to IoT and ERP systems. This enables production data to be shared and provides a basis for further workflow optimisation.

Automated job changes

Two integrated and independently operating high-speed robots enable automated job changeovers. While the press remains in operation, cylinders for up to four subsequent orders can be prepared in advance. This gives operators more time to prepare upcoming jobs and reduces machine changeover times.

RFID identification assists printing personnel in correctly matching carrier cylinders, anilox rolls and sleeves. Manual sleeve changes have also been adapted to improve safety and ergonomics. Operators do not have to lift heavy adapters and receive intuitive guidance throughout the process.

Digitisation of printing processes

The investment forms part of Südpack's continuing automation and digitisation of production processes. The company expects the system to make operations more secure and transparent while freeing employees for value-adding tasks. The expanded capacity is intended to enable faster and more flexible delivery of printed packaging solutions to customers across Europe.