New solution addresses the growing demand for mid-web and short-run printing applications
The printing and packaging industry is witnessing a growing demand for versatile solutions that can handle shorter runs, diverse substrates, and cost-effective production. Recognising this market shift, Echaar Equipment has introduced its latest Flexo Compact Series, a new generation of CI flexo presses designed specifically for the mid-web and narrow-web segments.
In an interaction, Kirti Panchal, Echaar Equipment, shared insights into the company’s new launch, technology approach, and how the new machine addresses the evolving needs of label and flexible packaging converters.
Understanding the Need for Mid-Web Flexo Solutions
With years of experience in providing different printing solutions, ECHaar Equipment has closely studied market requirements across the label and flexible packaging sectors.
“Over the years, we have been offering different solutions, including CI flexo and stack flexo presses. Through our market research, we understood that there was a growing requirement for solutions in the mid-web and narrower segments,” explained Panchal.
To address this demand, the company has introduced its new Flexo Compact Series, which becomes the fourth series in its flexo portfolio.
ECHaar Equipment’s existing range includes:
- Flexo Master – Flagship model offering speeds up to 500–600 metres per minute
- Flexo Delight – 400 series machine
- Flexo Smart – Available in geared and gearless configurations
- Flexo Compact Series – New solution for mid-web and short-run applications
Flexo Compact Series: Designed for Versatility
The new Flexo Compact Series has been developed to support converters looking for flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effective production.
The machine is available with:
- Print width options of 700 mm and 880 mm
- Repeat length starting from 240 mm
- Maximum repeat length up to 650 mm
“With shorter job quantities and ultra-short runs becoming common, this machine allows converters to efficiently manage such requirements,” said Panchal.
The company offers two versions of the machine:
- Geared CI Flexo Press – An economical option for customers looking for reliable CI technology at competitive investment levels
- Gearless CI Flexo Press – An advanced version offering higher precision and performance
Both configurations are available in:
- 8 colour
- 6 colour
- 4 colour options
A Complete Printing Solution for Labels and Flexible Packaging
One of the biggest advantages of the Flexo Compact Series is its ability to cater to both label and flexible packaging applications.
“The industry today is facing intense competition, especially in the label segment. To survive and remain competitive, converters need a machine that can handle both labels and flexible packaging,” explained Panchal.
The press supports multiple ink technologies, including:
- Solvent-based inks
- Water-based inks
- UV inks
- Special effect coatings with downstream UV coating units
According to Panchal, this flexibility provides converters with greater production options while controlling costs.
Reducing Production Costs in Label Printing
The label industry is increasingly looking for alternatives that can deliver high-quality output while reducing production costs.
“UV inks are widely used in label printing, but they are expensive. Our machine can achieve similar quality levels using solvent-based inks, which significantly reduces the cost of production,” said Panchal.
The machine is capable of printing challenging substrates, including:
- Shrink PVC films
- Metallised films
- Flexible packaging materials
- Special application substrates
Bringing CI Flexo Technology to the Mid-Web Segment
While several companies offer inline presses for label applications, ECHaar Equipment believes its key differentiator is bringing CI flexo technology into the label and mid-web market.
“There are many companies offering inline presses, but we are offering CI technology. That is the major difference,” said Panchal.
CI flexo technology provides advantages such as:
- Better tension control
- Improved registration accuracy
- Consistent print quality
- Superior performance on flexible substrates
By combining CI technology with compact dimensions, the Flexo Compact Series provides converters with an advanced yet practical solution.
Positive Industry Response
The launch has received encouraging feedback from the industry, according to Panchal.
“This is an innovative solution we have introduced for the label and flexible packaging segments, and the response from the industry has been very positive,” she added.
With the growing need for shorter runs, higher flexibility, and cost-efficient production, ECHaar Equipment’s Flexo Compact Series aims to bridge the gap between conventional label presses and high-end CI flexo solutions.
By offering advanced CI technology for mid-web applications, the company is helping converters improve productivity, expand application capabilities, and remain competitive in the evolving printing and packaging market.
