Flying High

Published: December 01, 2009, By Edited by Claudia Hine, Managing Editor

The investment in a new flexographic press at Ultimate Packaging, which runs a 24/7 operation, has created ten additional jobs at the UK-based factory. The press is a ten-color Soma Flex Imperia model from SOMA Engineering. It was supplied through SOMA's UK agent, Engelmann & Buckham, and is reported to be the first of its kind in the UK.

The central impression, servo-driven press is 50 in. (1,270 mm) wide. It prints on a wide variety of films, including low-density and high-density polyethylene, oriented polypropylene, paper, and laminates at speeds up to 1,457 fpm (450 mpm).

The Imperia model is equipped with a flying sleeve system that decreases press downtime. Print sleeves can be changed and new printing jobs prepared while the press is running. Automatic washing of the inking unit also can be performed during press operation.

Serving the Food Industry

Ultimate Packaging creates dynamic flexible packaging for the food industry; 65% of its product line is delivered into the fresh produce sector. Located on a green field site on the outskirts of Grimsby, the facility is considered unique. The company brought together leading experts in factory design, industrial hygiene, environmental management, health and safety, quality assurance, and production efficiency throughout the building phase. More significantly, supermarket chains and food manufacturers also were involved. The result is a 60,000-sq-ft facility equipped with the latest printing and converting technology, widely recognized as being one of the most hygienic in the UK.

“The new Soma Flex Imperia is an excellent investment for us,” says Chris Tonge, sales and marketing director, “and the unique features of the machine are extensive. Its ability to deliver the highest quality flexographic print at high speeds and a flying sleeve design allowing spare print stations to be prepared while already running are just two examples of its huge benefits.”

Installation of the press, which measures nearly 69 ft (21 m) long and weighs more than 77 tons, was completed in October. The company reports the Soma Flex Imperia press will dramatically increase its print capacity by 5-6 million linear m/yr and represents a 20% increase over the production capability of its four existing eight-color flexo presses.

Supplier Info

• SOMA Engineering | www.soma-eng.com
  Circle 314 or visit www.freeproductinfo.net/pff

Converter Info

• Ultimate Packaging Ltd. | Pegasus Way, Europarc, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, DN37 9TS UK | +44 0 1472 255400 | www.ultimate-packaging.co.uk