Packaging prepress services provider Pulse Media claims to have become the first company in the UK to install the Hell PremiumSetter D1700, a laser engraver designed for direct laser engraving of both elastomer sleeves and traditional flexographic plates.
Manufactured by Germany-based Hell Gravure Systems, the PremiumSetter D1700, now operational at Pulse Media’s HQ in Stockport, provides 5080dpi resolution. The enhanced resolution allows for sharper image quality, more consistent ink distribution, and better gradient reproduction, which Pulse Media says are critical factors in producing high-end packaging.
A key benefit of the new system, according to Pulse Media, is its ability to engrave continuous elastomer sleeves, which allow for full-wrap packaging designs. While flexographic plates remain a widely used solution, the company added that sleeves offer advantages in print durability and visual presentation by eliminating the seam lines commonly associated with plates. The PremiumSetter also allows for hybrid workflows, accommodating both plates and sleeves depending on the project requirements.
Increased design flexibility is another notable outcome of the upgrade, said Pulse Media. The PremiumSetter’s ability to engrave microcell patterns and variable dot shapes supports improved colour consistency, reduced ink usage, and compatibility with a broader range of materials and finishes.
On top of this, environmental considerations also played a role in the company’s decision to adopt the PremiumSetter. The system does not require chemical processing and includes self-cleaning features, reducing maintenance demands and potential downtime. Its modular construction means that most parts can be replaced in-house, minimising delays in the event of technical issues.
By incorporating the PremiumSetter D1700 into its production workflow, Pulse Media aims to deliver higher quality packaging solutions to its printer and brand customers with greater efficiency and fewer limitations. The company said the investment reflects a broader industry trend toward direct laser engraving and continuous printing technologies, which are becoming more widely adopted for their quality, speed, and sustainability benefits.
