Asahi Photoproducts has introduced two plate technologies, at Labelexpo, under its new REVO Series: AWP-REVO, a water-washable plate solution, and AFP-REVO, which is rebranding of the company’s existing solvent-based AEP-R plate.
The AWP-REVO plate is part of a broader system known as the AWP-REVO Ecosystem, which is designed specifically for small-format flexo printers. Unlike traditional water-wash plates, the company said AWP-REVO requires only water – no detergent – during processing. To use it, printers must operate both the REVO Plate Processor and the AWP-LOOP Petite water recycling unit. The system supports a maximum plate size of 25 x 30 inches.
Asahi’s new AWP-REVO plate
Asahi said the full process delivers a plate ready for printing in about an hour, aided by its CleanPrint technology, which helps reduce press downtime by minimising ink buildup. The LOOP Petite recycling system allows up to 90% of washout water to be filtered and reused, lowering water consumption and operating costs.
The rebranded AFP-REVO plate, while presented under the REVO Series name, is technically identical to the AEP-R solvent-based plate previously available. It remains compatible with a range of ink systems and is suited for high-end flexible packaging and label applications. The plate has already received Esko’s Quartz Certification and is optimised for use with modern screening and imaging technologies. According to the company, it uses approximately 30% less solvent during production and requires less drying time and energy than conventional solvent plates.
Asahi has indicated plans to expand the AWP-REVO system to accommodate larger plate formats in the future, in response to industry interest in detergent-free, water-washable processing methods. The developments are part of Asahi’s ongoing strategy to reduce solvent use in flexographic platemaking, aiming toward what it refers to as a “Solvent Zero” production environment.
