New Printing Technology Claims to Bring Unprecedented Decorative Capabilities to Flexible Plastics

A new gravure printing technology reportedly delivers unprecedented precision, color consistency, and sharpness on a range of polymer and paper substrates.

Developed by i2M, a manufacturer, designer, and printer of flexible plastic films in Mountaintop, PA, the Press 22 rotogravure printing press applies VeriPrint+ technology to films made of PET, PETg, acrylic, BOPP, polyester, and PVC ranging in thickness from 0.92 to 30 mil.

Press 22 is equipped with seven stations and is capable of printing 48-in. repeat designs and seven colors in a single pass, with AI-assisted precision registration and color matching capabilities, according to i2M. Surface treatment capabilities include integrated electrostatic printing assist (ESA) and corona discharge.

“Whether it’s flooring wood grain, architectural stone, or pool liner film, every detail counts — especially when you’re repeating it over tens of thousands of yards,” said i2M Senior Designer Dominika Marcisz. “With Press 22 we are able to craft the most realistic designs for a variety of industries.”

The launch of Press 22 expands the company’s decorative portfolio, catering to diverse applications across industries including thermoformers, flat laminators, luxury vinyl tile manufacturers, and decorative surfaces, said i2M. Customers will benefit from the press's capability to print ultra-thin films and handle an array of substrates with unmatched realism and technical expertise.

The female-led company also offers calendaring, laminating, rewinding, slitting, and packaging services as well as in-house lab testing.