MicroDynamics, provider of solutions for precision roll inspection and measurement systems, has partnered with flexo press manufacturer Soma to integrate MicroDynamics anilox inspection capabilities into its presses, becoming the first flexo OEM to offer such integration, according to both companies.
The non-exclusive partnership allows for MicroDynamics’ inspection and analysis solutions – Veritas and MicroScan3 respectively – to integrate into Soma’s press systems and operator interfaces, powering its new in-press anilox management system. The new workflow will allow printers to seamlessly inspect, verify and analyse anilox quality at the press, as well as track anilox performance metrics such as time on press, anilox mileage and roll/sleeve life.
Further details of the new anilox management system will be unveiled at the Soma’s FXC event on AI and automation in flexographic printing on 16 October 2024 at the Flexo Xperience Center in Atlanta, Georgia.
The Soma AI event will feature a number of AI-focused presentations highlighting the latest innovations in AI-driven automation. The event will also include live system demonstrations of the Soma Optima² intelligent flexo press, the Soma S-Mount plate mounter, and the Soma anilox management system with integrated MicroDynamics inspection capabilities. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness firsthand how these new Soma systems optimize productivity and reduce waste.
Petr Blasko, Soma’s marketing director, said, ‘AI is the number one topic in the news today, but how does it impact flexography? So far, automation has been a key driver in our industry, helping us address the challenge of declining operator skills. With AI, we have the potential to take automation to the next level, automating more processes and driving efficiency at both individual and enterprise levels.’
Brent Zurcher, MicroDynamics’ director of operations, will be conducting the anilox management demonstration at the Soma event, alongside Soma sales and service team members. He commented, ‘As a fellow FXC partner, we are proud to support Soma with fast, easy, and accurate anilox management instruments and software. We have witnessed many impressive Soma demonstrations throughout the years, and we share the same vision of industry standardisation and automation in flexo. We’re looking forward to the optimisation and increased productivity these integrations will bring to the future of flexographic printing.’
