The Xeikon FDU
The Xeikon FDU will be launched at drupa and has been developed to aid efficient end to end printing and converting for folding carton printers.
Jeroen Van Bauwel, product management director, commented, ‘Our flatbed die-cut unit was designed specifically for Xeikon technology, although it can be used for materials printed using conventional printing methods. The Xeikon FDU enables convertors to rapidly finish quick turnaround jobs in a cost effective manner. This approach streamlines throughput, eliminates bottlenecks, enhances production flexibility and increases overall plant capacity. Sheets are accurately and automatically registered for precise cutting and creasing without the need for time consuming setups.
‘There was a real gap in the market for an easy, affordable and fast setup solution to handle the growing volume of short run, fast turnaround jobs. A key benefit of the used technology is its ability to support smaller dies and counter plates for a more cost effective production. The fact that no nicks are needed between cartons is a valuable proposition for pharma and cosmetic boxes. It is also capable of embossing, which allows printers to offer value added services, including Braille.’
This 2000 sheets per hour flatbed system handles sheet sizes from 400 x 400 mm up to 530 x 1000 mm and a maximum die-cut size of 490 x 700 mm. Substrate thickness can range from 160 to 890 microns for paper and carton board and also microflute corrugated board can be finished, which means it can be used for completing offset as well as digital runs.
Mr Van Bauwel concluded, ‘The Xeikon FDU completes our folding carton suite. Bringing this product to market illustrates our continued investments in technologies that focus on meeting the needs of our customers.’
