Flexographic press operators print designs and lettering onto packaging materials, such as tampon-resistant cups and plates, waxed paper, food storage bags, and plastic. They configure the printer, mount the rubber plate, and adjust the dye levers to evenly distribute the dyes. They also make minor adjustments to the alignment, speed, and tension on the press and clean the press after each run. High school education or equivalent and good mechanical skills are required.
A flexographic press operator prints designs, logos and lettering onto packaging materials used for industrial, commercial and consumer products. These rolls of materials often include tampon-resistant cups and plates, waxed paper and food storage bags, and plastic. It also commonly operates printers that print patterns and words on plastic film and paper packaging supplies.
After configuring the printer with the materials to be printed, it confirms the job specifications with the work order. These instructions typically include the required ink colors, print length, and other instructions to help make the finished product acceptable. If she has any concerns, she usually resolves them with the manager before proceeding.
To prepare the press, the operator of the flexo press mounts the rubber plate specially made for the job and dies with the design or letters on the cylinder of the press. It securely mounts the cylinder on the shaft. Your last step before filling the ink fountains with ink is to securely attach the assembly to the printer bed.
After loading the appropriate dyes and inks, the operator of the flexo press usually adjusts the dye levers to evenly distribute the dyes. It is generally expected that she will correctly align the cylinders to avoid staining or mixing of the dyes. Once the ink is installed, she clamps the paper or plastic rolls into the feeders and manually starts each roll in an even path with the correct amount of tension.
As the print project begins, it is often necessary for the press operator to make minor adjustments to the alignment, speed, and tension on the press. After these corrections are made, she usually cuts a test piece from the end of the paper or plastic roll to verify compliance with the job specifications. She usually makes the necessary adjustments to the ink or paper to ensure the images are sharp and have the correct color and placement on the surface of the materials.
At the end of each press run, a flexo press operator is usually required to clean your press. She normally uses specially made solvents to clean the fountains, cylinders and rubber plates. Regular maintenance typically requires the use of a grease gun to keep all parts of the printer running smoothly.
Press operators are generally required to have a high school education or equivalent to qualify for an apprenticeship program. In lieu of an apprenticeship, courses and classes in press operations are generally acceptable. Such training is typically offered at trade schools, technical training facilities, and community colleges. Good mechanical skills and attention to detail are desired traits for candidates for this position.
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