3M Flexographic Plate Mounting Tapes

Consider print characteristics. Fine detail, small text, and precise highlight reproduction favor harder tapes that minimize dot gain. Solid coverage, process color, and forgiving impression settings favor softer tapes. Medium durometers balance these considerations for general-purpose work. Printers often stock multiple durometers, selecting based on job requirements. Testing with actual plates and substrates validates selection.

Tape shifting typically results from: inadequate tape adhesion to cylinder or plate (surface contamination, incompatible surface); tape not rated for press speeds or impression forces; thermal expansion differences between plate and cylinder; or damaged or fatigued tape. Clean cylinders and plates thoroughly before mounting. Verify tape is rated for your press conditions. Replace tape that shows any sign of creep or shifting. Tape failure during a print run creates waste and delays.

Apply tape to the plate first, then mount the plate to the cylinder. Work from one edge across, using a rubber roller or squeegee to expel air as you go. Don't drop the entire plate onto the cylinder simultaneously since this traps air. For large plates, apply plate to cylinder in progressive contact from one side to the other. Ensure tape and plate are clean and free from debris that creates bumps. Work in temperature-controlled environments; extreme temperatures affect tape handling characteristics.

Corrugated printing typically requires softer tapes (higher durometer numbers, meaning more compression) to accommodate the uneven corrugated surface. However, fine halftones favor harder tapes for dot resolution. This creates a trade-off. Start with medium-durometer tape and evaluate results. You may need to accept some compromise between halftone quality and solid coverage, or adjust impression and anilox selection to compensate. Direct printing on corrugated is inherently challenging for fine halftones regardless of tape selection.