Proper flex storage solutions are very critical in ensuring the durability and efficiency in your flexographic printing services. This calls for proper cleaning, handling them with care and storing them properly. There are some procedures that can be followed to ensure flex storage solutions keep the sleeves in a perfect working state for a very long.

Handling with Care

It is imperative that all the flexographic sleeves are handled with care right from the storage to production and to ensure there is no damage. It would be an excellent idea to invest in flexcart to protect the sleeves from any damage. The flexcart will also guarantee the safety of employees if several sleeves have to be transported all at once. Caution should be observed particularly on sharp objects, and if there is any need to cut the sleeves, then a sharp knife need to be used with slight pressure to avert any damage.

Cleaning

Flexographic printing is often a dirty job, and the sleeves have to be kept clean if they are to print clean line. Therefore, cleaning has to be done as quickly as possible to remove any residues of inks, oil, tape and lubricants. Close attention needs to be observed to ensure the ends and the insides of the sleeves are always clean. Investing on sleeve cleaning cart that comes with a flexstand will ensure a quick cleaning of all the flexographic sleeves within the printing press without moving them out.

Flex Cleaning Solutions

Using the right cleaning products is crucial in the maintenance of the sleeves and harsh solvents should never be used in the cleaning process because it can damage the surfaces of the sleeves. Acids, salt solutions, or alkaline solutions should never be used in the cleaning process always refer to the recommendations from the supplier for the right cleaning products for your sleeves. Whenever the sleeves are not in use, it is advisable to store them in their protective covers to avoid damage. Sleeves should not be kept under the covers when they are wet, and they should be allowed to dry, and a compressed air dryer may be used to ensure they are dry and without any oil residues.

Storing

The horizontal storage system is not advisable because the sleeves will turn oval and are likely to cause injuries to workers if they fall especially if they were stacked so high. Against this backdrop, the storage of sleeves needs to be changed to vertical sleeve storage system. The vertical system can store more sleeves in a small area and much easier to retrieve them whenever they are needed. A flex stand that has adjustable discs and rubber pads will make an ideal vertical storage system that will ensure the longevity of your flexographic sleeves and minimize printing costs in the long run.