Cost-efficiency the guiding principle of the new high-speed hybrid machine built by KBA-Flexotecnica for large formats. Its dominant features, ergonomics and stability of the color element.

KBA-Flexotecnica, part of the German group KBA, will be premiering at its stand at Drupa 2016 (Hall 16 C47-1) a new central drum 8 color flexographic printing machine. Called NEO Hybrid XD LR, it is designed for high speed work on large formats.

Modular and expandable. NEO XD first of all presents itself as modular and “multitasking”, due aboveall to its hybrid nature. With this machine, in fact, different flexo printing technologies with solvent-or water based inks, UV LEDs and EB in a single pass or in a combination of several stages can be used. Furthermore, a series of dedicated printing elements, capable of working on a wide range of materials, can be integrated in-line, thus ensuring the printers not only the highest quality but also versatility and flexibility in managing the machine.

Ingenious techniques. Particularly ingenious the new technical solutions adopted in the design of the printing unit, which has a stable and rigid “vibration-proof” color element, this even in the most critical conditions at high production speeds.
Great attention has also been paid to machine ergonomics in order to facilitate printing and anilox sleeve change on large widths and large print formats. Same approach for cleaning and maintenance, with several smart devices that facilitate operations and reduce waste and downtime. Some examples? The easy extraction of the drying case and the drum cleaner through a special front hatch; or the pipeless doctor blade system with externalised machine adjustment.
                   
Electronics for efficiency. The new integrated electronic solutions have contributed to making the NEO XD a model of efficiency in the field of flexographic machines, developed with the primary objective of making automation and process control even more effective and easy to manage, thanks to the new operator panels that serve as HMIs for data entry and parameter control. Besides effectiveness, KBA-Flexotecnica designers have pursued maximum respect for the environment, fielding a number of new integrated solutions that enable a drastic reduction of waste in both start-up and during production, in addition to a plant design for saving on energy consumption.