Explore the challenges printers face today

Narrow Web Survey Results Overview - Jennifer Dochstader and David Walsh, LPC
APR recently conducted an extensive market research initiative targeting the U.S. narrow web flexible packaging market. We’ll present our results and discuss the most critical issues faced by narrow web converters today.

Press Dynamics Impacting Production Consistency and Efficiencies - Dario De Meo, Bobst
What are the critical aspects for registration? We will examine common narrow-web pressure-sensitive materials and solutions for improved tension as well as unique temperature control solutions on press. We’ll explore new innovations in press configurations for the label market and LED curing.

Best Practices for Preparing Film Stock for Ink Adhesion - Todd Krupa, Enercon
We will provide valuable insights into the corona treating process including which applications require it, which films benefit from it, and how you can eliminate surface energy as an operational variable.

Mechanics of Ink Adhesion - John Kilbo, Siegwerk
In addition to understanding the basics, this high-level discussion will include how ink adhesion is established on varying substrates, maintained in a press room setting, effective for quality control, and how it is interrelated with the final product. We will also cover aspects of UV LED technology and how it enhances adhesion at press speeds 40% higher than traditional mercury.

Best Practices for Prepress and Plate Consistency - Dan Muthig, APR
How do you know when print consistency is a result of prepress or the plates? What systems can you put in place to ensure consistency in the platemaking process? We will explore the measures required for optimization and testing, and what process control elements are needed to ensure plate consistency.

Fundamentals for Color Control and Print Consistency - Catherine Haynes, APR
We all understand any print system produces variability and changes in color. The focus of a good optimization process is to manage the variables to minimize that effect. It is commonly understood that any print system is going to have some degree of variability in quality and color. Print consistency and color control hinges on a sound optimization of all processes and then collecting reliable fingerprint and characterization data. We will review what it takes to bring it all together and ensure success.

Mercury Rising: How Controlling Ink and Web Temperature Affects Production Consistency - Scott Laurin, XDS Holding, Inc.
Explore why temperature is so important and how it directly impacts print consistency. Review methods of drying (IR, Hot Air, or UV Curing) and learn what will work best for your environment. Additional considerations will be discussed including viscosity, pH, and solvent blends for inks and coatings.

Panel Discussion on What’s Trending - Moderated by Catherine Haynes, APR
Join all the speakers for an open panel discussion on trending topics for flexible packaging and narrow-web converters. Topics may include the migration to shorter runs, competition from wide-web printers and offset, expanded gamut printing, variable data, shrink, digital printing and other market trends.

Flexible Packaging Run - Dan Muthig, APR