Stork Anilox Innovation Timeline
2003
Stork HQP Fiber Optic Engraving Technology
Takes the Flexographic Industry by Storm
Once again at the forefront of anilox technology, Stork Cellramic’s latest advancement, the introduction of HQP Fiber Optic anilox rolls, is ushering in a new era of print quality and press-room efficiency.
With a glass-like inner cell wall lining, HQP Fiber Optic engravings provide vastly improved ink release over YAG. HQP Fiber Optic engravings resist ink plugging , which helps maintain color strength throughout a press-run. If they do eventually plug, HQP Fiber Optic engravings are easier to clean , which reduces down-time , as well as reducing the need for the use of hazardous cleaning chemistries and cleaning equipment.
HQP Fiber Optic engravings have a more robust wall structure than YAG, so they stand up better to use and cleaning. They are more damage resistant as well.
Another outstanding benefit of HQP Fiber Optic engravings is their phenomenal cell-to-cell consistency .
With all of these advantages, it is no surprise that Stork HQP Fiber Optic anilox engravings are taking the flexographic industry by storm.
1996
Stork Cellramic Introduces
The Next Paradigm Shift:
YAG Ex-Cell-ence ®
Anilox Engraving Technology
Stork Cellramic’s introduction of YAG (Yittrium Aluminum Garnet) crystal laser technology fueled explosive growth in ultra-high quality process printing, allowing flexography to compete head to head with offset and gravure quality. YAG shattered the linecount barrier, enabling the production of anilox rolls from 1000-2000 LPI. The much steeper wall profile enabled YAG to offer several benefits over
CO2 engravings:
• Better cell to cell consistency improved print consistency.
• Higher linecount capabilities improved print quality and allowed for the use of higher line screen plates, direct to plate, and stochastic screening.
• Higher cell volumes at high linecounts improved visual impact of the print.
• More consistent cell wall heights reduced doctor blade wear.
• Reduced cell wall channeling insured consistent ink delivery.
1979
Stork Cellramic’s Pioneering of CO2 Laser Engraved Ceramic Anilox
Revolutionizes Flexographic Printing.
In the early 1970s, CSI Corporation, (later to be known as Stork Cellramic, Inc.), developed and patented the CO2 laser engraved ceramic anilox roll. This marked a turning point for the previously “self described” rubber stamp printing process. C02 engravings offered numerous advantages over chrome rolls, the mainstay of the time. Some of the many advantages include:
Ø Greater durability with improved damage resistance.
Ø Longer service life.
Ø Better ink control over time for easier color matching.
Ø Higher linecount capability for enhanced image resolution.
Ø Greater ink carrying capacity for more versatility.
Stork’s pioneering of CO2 engravings fostered a renaissance in flexographic printing, providing a level of quality and ink delivery consistency that would prove to be a catalyst for improvements throughout the entire ink train. These improvements elevated flexographic print quality to levels that would eventually rival offset and gravure.