Important Considerations In Choosing Plates Dots

Paying attention to the smallest of details may make a huge impact in the realm of flexographic printing. Dot profiles are minor detail that requires attention ( or shapes).

It may seem little, but an experienced flexo printer understands that the consequences of utilizing varied image carrier dot profiles may have a significant impact on the quality of the final prints.

What Is the Importance of Flexo Dot Profiles?

There are two types of dot profiles: flat and round, and each has an effect on the final printed result.

Many variables influence the dot profile selection, including:

• Characteristics of ink
• Color density preference
• Image
• Substrate

4 Important Considerations When Selecting a Dot Profile for Your Print

Here are some things to speak about with your image carrier supplier so they can help you determine what's best for you:

1- LEVELS OF IMPRESSION

Depending on the printing pressure, roundtop dots will generate different final print outcomes. This can result in substantial dot distortion or unpredictable dot gain if you don't know what's optimal for your print.

Due to the rounded contact point, roundtop dots may print a finer, smaller dot and are frequently utilized for highlight or detail regions.

A flat-top dot has a defined surface, resulting in reduced fluctuation in dot gain dependent on pressure and greater benefits for solid, dense ink regions and reverse printing tasks, particularly for work requiring flexible or corrugated substrates.

2- RESULTS PRINTING

Roundtop dots are extremely sensitive to pressure changes, which can create issues in some print processes. The color density can change quickly when the printing pressure is raised.

Because flat-top dots are less affected by press pressure, image consistency may be produced more consistently throughout the press run.

The flat-top dots preserve a much sharper edge and a more defined printing surface. They're recognized for having the best dot structure, which means better color management and more brightness.

3- IMAGE CARRIER STRESS EFFECT

Flat top dots are often thought to be more robust than rounded dots, resulting in a much longer image carrier life.

4- FINANCIAL ASPECTS

Longer press life and more uniform prints are achieved using flat-top dot image carriers, which can boost profitability.

Where Does Dot Profile Go From Here?

As dot technology improves, flexo printers will be able to print more items that are now handled by offset or gravure printers. The flexographic method may be used to print high-end labels, cartons, and flexible packaging.

Printers can now generate higher quality pictures than ever before by having a good grasp of essential parts of the flexographic printing process such as ink selection, dot profile, image carrier, and ink transfer.