At China Print 2025 in Beijing, Asahi Photoproducts was featured in a partner space within the Esko booth.The focus at this show was on Asahi’s Solvent ZERO initiative, highlighting sustainability and high productivity with the company’s AWP and AFP-R plate technologies.
A highlight of the booth was packaging print samples created using cationic UV inks on film, designed specifically for noodle packaging applications. These samples demonstrate how Asahi’s technology delivers both functional and aesthetic excellence for the packaging industry.
Key Technologies shown:
- CrystalCleanConnect – Automated Flexo Platemaking Solution (co-developed with Esko and Kongsberg) – Fully automated and connected process; delivers a mount-ready plate at high speed; streamlines platemaking from 12 steps down to 1; reduces dedicated operator time by 90 per cent; achieves a 25 per cent average increase in press OEE; lowers ink usage by 20 per cent; offers a lower total cost of ownership; ensures consistent, high-quality output with a minimal environmental footprint.
- AWP Water-Washable system – Also featured in Beijing, demonstrating the same solvent-free platemaking process introduced at Labelexpo Southeast Asia, eliminating VOC-based solvents and improving both pressroom safety and efficiency.
- AFP-R “Quick & Easy” Plate Solution – Bridging Technology – Part of Asahi’s roadmap toward more sustainable platemaking, the AFP-R plate family bridges the transition from solvent to water-wash technologies. It reduces solvent consumption by approximately 30 per cent and shortens plate processing time by more than 50 per cent. The plates are compatible with existing solvent-based equipment and are available in both flat (AEPF) and round (AEPR) formats.
“Our commitment to the Asian region is stronger than ever,” Asahi Kasei Asia/China region assistant sales manager Kazuaki Abe said.
“[This event] enables us to demonstrate how our flexographic solutions meet specific regional needs – whether in the label or packaging sectors – while staying true to our core sustainability values.”
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