Flexo inks supplier Follmann has marked its next phase of UK growth by joining the Flexographic Industry Association as a diamond partner.
The German company has had a presence in the UK more since the 1900s when flexo began to adopt water based rather than solvent based inks. The increasing pressure to become more environmentally friendly through reduction of VOC emissions, improvements in recyclability and the need to find alternatives to nitrocellulose in ink.
Regional sales manager Jacky Hoarau says: “The UK packaging and printing industry is entering a significant period of technological change. Joining FIA UK as a diamond partner marks an important milestone in our commitment to the flexo sector and strengthens our ability to engage with packaging converters across the UK.
“Through the partnership we will collaborate with UK packaging companies and the wider supply chain, sharing technical expertise and helping businesses as they transition to water based solutions.”
Currently Follmann is live with some ten UK projects, including running its inks to print paper napkins. This is part of the expansion in the UK.
During a recent live demonstration at a customer site in Germany Follmann ran its water based PU ink across a number of recyclable materials including films with a significant degree of recycled content to show that the inks are up to the task regardless of web width and machine design.
The adoption of water based inks is not a drop in solution the company says, but adds that in general no major changes to anilox rollers or other components is required. Once achieved and the press set up correctly, there should be no loss of printing speed,
As well as flexo inks, Follmann supplies water based barrier coatings for paper applications, and protective coatings for flexible packaging. Separately the business also supplies the Sealock range of adhesives for carton and paper bag production.
