There are two basic types of Kodak ThermoFlex digital imaging devices:
- ThermoFlex Narrow and ThermoFlex Mid devices use a high-power fiber laser diode array to ablate the carbon mask from the plate media
- ThermoFlex Wide 1 and ThermoFlex Wide II devices use a high-power thermal head to ablate the carbon mask
Figure 1. ThermoFlex Narrow (left) and ThermoFlex Mid (right) hybrid devices
The ThermoFlex Narrow and ThermoFlex Mid devices are designed for use in narrow-web and mid-web shops. The hybrid capacity of these devices also allows production of offset plates on the same device, for use in mixed flexo and offset shops. Maximum output size for the ThermoFlex Narrow is 762 mm x 735 mm. Maximum output size for the ThermoFlex Mid is 1200 mm x 990 mm.
Figure 2. ThermoFlex Wide I (left) and ThermoFlex Wide II (right)
The ThermoFlex Wide devices are designed to image large plates for wide-web applications, up to 56 inches x 80 inches (142 cm x 203 cm). The ThermoFlex Wide II device also allows for the imaging of sleeves, either plate-on-sleeve with seams, or continuous photo polymer with seamless imaging. Prinergy workflow software, which supports the creation of seamless imaging output, is configured as part of the Start Up Assistance service.