BOBST launches new DigiMountTM automatic loading system

[Chinese Packaging Network News] BOBST has announced the launch of a new DigiMountTM automatic loading system. The latest Smart DigiMountTM uses sleeve technology to further increase the efficiency of the unit-wide narrow flexographic printing line.

Smart DigiMountTM uses advanced electronics to increase the speed and precision of plate setup. It handles 254–812.8 mm sleeve lengths, 1066.8 mm (10–32 optional 42 in). This makes it adaptable to a wider range of materials. In addition, a housing cover has been added to eliminate ambient light and help keep the system operating consistently in any environment. Older models of DigiMountTM can still be used to accommodate 139.7-609.6 mm (5.5-24 in) print roll repeat lengths.

At the start of the Digital AutomationTM project, BOBST has already focused on eliminating workflow issues caused by incorrect plate installations. This is a revolutionary research result, completely digital operation, detection, adjustment and control, completely changed the way the label and packaging printing production lines work. As part of the project, the first digitally-assisted DigiMountTM flexo plater was launched in 2015.

We are fully aware of the Digital AutomationTM program, which includes digital flexo technology and REVO's 7-color extended color gamut process that automatically manages the entire printing and processing workflow.

The precision and speed required for flexographic printing is not achieved by manual loading. In particular, when using a 7 color ECG process to run the press, any manual intervention by the operator should be avoided to provide full digital quality and production efficiency, thereby effectively automating closed-loop digital automation.

The DigiMountTM system is simple, fast, and efficient: The operator simply places the plate on the platen and turns on the reference mark alignment sequence from the touch screen. Automatically detects if the flexo version is installed correctly or tells if it is necessary to restart the operation. The plate mounting accuracy for each print roller or print sleeve is 0.02 +/-mm, with repeatability and consistency.

“Each concept in the BOBST Digital AutomationTM program is constantly being upgraded or expanded to keep up with the pace of equipment development and to ensure the level of automation,” said Matteo Cardinotti, Managing Director of Bobst Firenze and head of the mid-to-narrow multi-function print production line. “This has led to the development of the Smart DigiMountTM plate loading machine to provide a solution for BOBST's narrow multi-function printing production line, dedicated to the production of labels, flexible packaging or carton packaging using sleeve technology. This can be adapted to a larger printing width, Such as M6 series and M8 series flexo press."