Combine and Conquer

Printers can achieve these results "by combining the unique characteristics of each printing process to offer labels with more visual impact," says Leibin. For example, screen printing can provide high hiding power and high color strength more effectively than flexo. With screen, converters can lay down a solid white on transparent self-adhesive materials. With gravure, Leibin says printers can print heavy metallic or fluorescent inks, varnishes, or thermo-sensitive inks for special effects. "The addition of screen, gravure, and hot-foil units are the most sought after combination printing units on the OMET Varyflex press," he states.