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Creation recently installed a Esko CDI Crystal XPS 4260 platemaker to respond to rising demand for its prepress services
UK reprographics specialist, Creation Reprographics (Creation), has purchased an Esko CDI Crystal XPS 4260 platemaking system to meet rising market demand for prepress services.
The Esko CDI Crystal XPS 4260 Quartz-ready, which is capable of handling flexo plates up to 42in x 60in, consolidates imaging and exposure processes into a single automated workflow. The system has been calculated to deliver up to 50% reduction in manual steps and 73% reduction in operator time when compared to traditional, multi-device flexo platemaking workflows.
The CDI Crystal is also compatible with more sustainable solvent-free processing, which replaces traditional chemical-wash processing with thermal or water-wash plate development technologies.
Matt Francklow, managing director at Creation, says: “We’re pleased to strengthen our partnership with Esko, who remain our technology partner of choice for delivering exceptional prepress services to our customers.
“The CDI Crystal XPS system in particular provides a major step forward in our ability to support printers with speed, precision, and consistency. As such, having the CDI Quartz-ready is a no brainer and futureproofs the technology we can supply to our clients, should they need it.”
The combined flexo plate imager and exposure unit recently arrived at Creation’s Northampton base as part of its wider growth strategy, which has included the appointment of print and prepress expert, Phil Brown, as its new operations director.
In his new role, Brown is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, optimising internal processes, and supporting the business as it scales.
The appointment builds on momentum generated by Creation’s investment in a new, purpose-built HQ designed to enhance production capabilities and deliver a higher level of service to clients.
The new Esko system aims to reinforce Creation's wider commitment to sustainable prepress operations. By supporting solvent-free plate processing workflows, the CDI Crystal XPS 4260 can eliminate VOC emissions from the platemaking process, helping Creation's printing customers strengthen their environmental credentials whilst maintaining high print quality.
Francklow adds: “As we look ahead to the future, it’s essential that we invest in the best technology available, while supporting our sustainability ethos. Esko’s market-leading solutions align perfectly with our vision for the future of sustainable, effective prepress, so this decision was easy to make.”
Mike Ball, EMEA North sales manager for Flexo at Esko, comments: "We're delighted to see Creation Reprographics invest in a Crystal XPS 4260 Quartz-ready system.
"The CDI Crystal XPS delivers the automation, precision, and efficiency that today's platemaking demands, and we're proud to support Creation's continued growth. As a longstanding Esko partner, Creation exemplifies how the right technology investments can transform prepress operations and deliver exceptional value to customers."
