The platesetter can image flexo plates at up to 3.3sqm per hour at its maximum resolution of 4,800dpi (or 4sqm per hour at lower resolutions), or as fast as 6.3sqm per hour for letterpress.

It outputs with screen rulings up to 200lpi and features FlexoDot screening technology with a choice of minimum halftone dot sizes and shapes, for better tonal qualities and crisper imaging in printed highlights.

The FX1200 can handle plate sizes from 100 x 100mm to 1,200 x 1,067mm and can be upgraded on-site to the even larger FX1524 specification of 1,524 x 1,067mm.

It boasts a clamping system for holding leading and trailing edges of larger plates to speed loading, while smaller plates can be used without having to mask the rest of the drum.

The unit features a newly developed imaging head and optics with 64 high power laser diodes, and has a backup mode for continued production in case of laser failure.

The PlateRite FX1200 can be set up using Screen’s workflow software and will accept 1bit TIFF data from any other source.

The third model in Screen’s flexo and letterpress range, it joins the FX870II and the FX1524.

The model is currently available in Australia through Jet Technologies.

This article originally appeared at printweek.com

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