REHAU Tackles Plate Block Errors with Innovative Polymer Solutions, Boosting Printing Efficiency

Leesburg, VA – October 26, 2023 – REHAU INDUSTRIES LLC, a leading global polymer processor headquartered in Leesburg, Virginia, is stepping up to solve a frustrating problem for the printing industry: plate block errors. These frustrating defects, which show up as unwanted marks or inconsistencies in printed materials, can lead to wasted materials, production delays, and unhappy customers. REHAU's latest advancements in polymer technology are offering a game-changing solution, significantly reducing the occurrence of these errors and boosting overall printing efficiency. For those unfamiliar, plate block errors happen during the flexographic printing process. Think of those colorful packages you see on supermarket shelves, or the labels on your favorite beverages. Flexography uses flexible printing plates, a bit like sophisticated stamps, to transfer ink onto the material being printed. Sometimes, these plates don’t perfectly align, or debris gets trapped, leading to these annoying block errors - little smudges or misshapen areas on the final print. It’s a headache for printers, and can be costly to fix. “We’ve been listening to the concerns of printers for years,” explains a spokesperson for REHAU. “They told us about the ongoing challenges with plate block errors, and the impact it was having on their bottom line. We knew we could leverage our expertise in polymer science to develop a solution.” REHAU’s approach isn’t about fixing the symptoms of plate block errors, but preventing them in the first place. The company’s engineers have developed a specialized polymer formulation designed for use in mounting tapes and plate carriers. This isn’t your average adhesive tape; it’s a carefully engineered material with unique properties that address the root causes of these errors. So, what makes REHAU’s solution different? Several key features stand out: Superior Conformability: REHAU’s polymer is incredibly flexible and conforms perfectly to the surface of the printing plate and the mounting sleeve. This tight, consistent contact minimizes air pockets and voids, which are major contributors to plate movement and misalignment. Think of it like a custom-fit glove – it grabs the plate securely and won’t let go. Exceptional Adhesive Strength: The polymer boasts a high tack and peel strength, ensuring a rock-solid bond between the plate and the carrier. This prevents plate lifting or slipping, even during high-speed printing runs. It's like a super-strong glue that keeps everything in place. Controlled Compression Set: Unlike some mounting tapes that compress over time and lose their holding power, REHAU’s polymer maintains a consistent thickness and compression set. This ensures long-lasting, reliable performance and minimizes the need for frequent plate changes. It won’t get squishy or lose its grip. Low Residue & Clean Release: When it’s time to change plates, REHAU’s polymer offers clean, easy release without leaving behind sticky residue. This simplifies the plate changing process, reduces downtime, and keeps the printing press running smoothly. No messy cleanup! Dimensional Stability: The polymer is engineered to resist stretching or shrinking, ensuring consistent performance across different printing conditions and preventing plate distortion. It holds its shape, no matter what. How REHAU's Solution Impacts Printers: REHAU’s innovation translates into tangible benefits for printing companies: Reduced Waste: Fewer plate block errors mean less wasted material and lower production costs. Less spoilage is always a good thing. Increased Productivity: Faster plate changes and fewer interruptions lead to increased throughput and higher production volumes. More prints in less time! Improved Print Quality: Consistent plate mounting results in sharper, cleaner prints with fewer defects. Happy customers are key. Lower Maintenance Costs: Reduced wear and tear on printing equipment leads to lower maintenance costs and extended equipment life. Save money in the long run. Enhanced Operator Safety: Easier plate handling and clean release minimize the risk of operator injury. Safety first! Beyond the Tape: REHAU's Commitment to Innovation REHAU isn’t just a material supplier; they’re a solutions provider. They work closely with printers to understand their specific challenges and develop customized solutions that meet their unique needs. Their team of engineers offers technical support and on-site assistance to help printers optimize their processes and maximize the benefits of REHAU’s products. "We're committed to driving innovation in the printing industry," says the spokesperson. "We believe that by combining our expertise in polymer science with the needs of our customers, we can help printers achieve new levels of efficiency, quality, and profitability." Looking Ahead REHAU continues to invest in research and development to further improve its polymer solutions for the printing industry. They are exploring new materials and technologies to address emerging challenges and drive even greater levels of performance. For printers looking to eliminate plate block errors and take their operations to the next level, REHAU offers a proven, reliable solution that delivers results. About REHAU INDUSTRIES LLC: REHAU INDUSTRIES LLC is a leading global polymer processor specializing in innovative solutions for a variety of industries, including automotive, construction, and printing. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, REHAU is a trusted partner for businesses around the world. The company is headquartered in Leesburg, Virginia, and operates manufacturing facilities and sales offices throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. You can learn more at [Please insert REHAU website here]. Contact: [Please insert REHAU contact information here]