Founded in 2006, Java Print has built a reputation as a go-to specialist for self-adhesive labels, sleeves, lidding, wrap-arounds, tags and sachets. While the company primarily serves the food industry – supplying fresh produce brands and major retailers such as Woolworths Foods in South Africa and Marks & Spencer in the UK – it also caters to the pharmaceutical, chemical and FMCG sectors.
With production nearing full capacity and the demand for top-tier technology rising, Java Print needed a game-changing solution. Enter the CHROME RFP 450.
‘We were close to maxing out our capacity, but we also needed to modernise our machinery. The CHROME press was the perfect solution,’ comments Mark Groves, Java Print’s managing director. ‘Its high-speed operation, precision and efficiency mean we can now offer even more to our customer base. We’ve already showcased its capabilities to several customers and they love what they see.’
This strategic investment positions Java Print at the forefront of innovation, ensuring faster turnaround times, unmatched quality and a competitive edge in a fast-evolving market.
CHROME of the crop
Mark explains that the company had long relied on equipment from various suppliers. However, as demand for higher precision and more advanced technology grew, it became clear that a more sophisticated solution was needed. Trusting his instincts, Mark took a bold leap of faith and invested in the CHROME RFP 450 LED – without even seeing the machine firsthand.
‘Finalising the deal took some time, but I can confidently say this press has surpassed our expectations,’ Mark remarks. ‘The registration is outstanding and the level of precision we can achieve is unlike anything I’ve experienced before.’
Java Print’s recent work on labels for Oasis Water’s sparkling water range is a testament to the machine’s capabilities. ‘The hardest thing to do in flexographic printing is to reverse copy out CMYK colours. With the CHROME, we managed to do it seamlessly. The Oasis logo’s teardrop is reversed out of multiple colours, yet the edges are so smooth, there’s no visible movement. The press holds registration at speeds of up to 150m/min and the results are impeccable,’ he adds.
The CHROME RFP 450 LED is a powerhouse of innovation, designed to push the boundaries of print quality and efficiency. This eight-colour press is engineered for peak performance, featuring full LED curing technology and a short web path for optimal material usage. A versatile delam/relam unit on a moveable rail further enhances its functionality, making it a game changer for label production.
Among its standout technical features is a cold foiling station, allowing for premium embellishments that elevate high-end labels. A crossover unit enables the creation of peel-and-read labels, adding versatility for multilayer applications.
Precision is at the heart of the CHROME, with dual servo drives on each print station ensuring impeccable registration stability. The Bosch Rexroth drive package synchronises movements seamlessly, eliminating material stretch or misalignment, while the Erhardt+Leimer inspection system provides continuous quality control, guaranteeing flawless results. ‘We knew Java Print produces high-end labels, so we were confident the CHROME RFP 450 would be tested rigorously,’ comments ROTOCON director Patrick Aengenvoort. ‘And it has delivered. Some companies invest in new machinery but don’t always achieve the best results. Here, the CHROME press is running at full potential, handling complex jobs with ease.’
Another major advantage is the LED curing lamps on the CHROME press, which consume about 70% less electricity than traditional mercury lamps with lower maintenance. Plus, while mercury lamps require a 30-minute warm-up time, LED technology is instant. ‘The CHROME has significantly improved our sustainability by reducing downtime and minimising waste. Thanks to the short web path, we experience less waste and faster set-up times. These energy savings are especially valuable in a country grappling with electricity challenges,’ Mark adds.
The ROTOCON difference
Beyond the machine’s impressive specifications, Mark highlights ROTOCON’s exceptional service as a defining factor in Java Print’s decision to invest. ‘When you’re buying a machine of this calibre, you need to trust that the supplier will provide unwavering support. Patrick and his team have been phenomenal in this regard,’ he asserts. ‘Every issue we’ve had – minor or major – has been addressed immediately. Patrick answers every call, good, bad or indifferent, and that’s what sets ROTOCON apart.’
Java Print also sources its rotary and flexible dies and anilox rollers from ROTOCON, further strengthening their partnership. ‘We needed dies urgently and ROTOCON dropped everything to accommodate us within 24 hours. That kind of service is invaluable,’ Mark enthuses.
Patrick echoes this sentiment: ‘Installing a machine like this isn’t just about the sale. We ensure operators are properly trained, back-up parts are readily available and our technical team is always on hand. It’s about fostering long-term partnerships.’
Mark also praises ROTOCON technicians Tim Shaw, Sachin Sukahal and Manush Sukhu for their dedication during the installation and commissioning phase. ‘They were here every day from 6am to 7pm, ensuring everything was set up perfectly.
They take my calls at any time and always find a solution,’ he says. ‘That level of commitment gives you peace of mind – especially when you’re investing in a machine you’ve never seen in action before.’
Looking ahead
With the CHROME RFP 450 LED now fully operational, Java Print is poised to set new benchmarks in label printing quality and efficiency. ‘This machine is exactly what printing should be,’ says Mark. ‘It has transformed our operations and with ROTOCON’s backing, we feel confident in the future.’
For ROTOCON, the installation marks yet another successful partnership. ‘Our goal is not just to sell machines but to empower businesses with the best technology and support,’ Patrick concludes. ‘And seeing Java Print thrive with the CHROME RFP 450 LED is proof that we’re achieving that.’
Mark concludes: ‘Just last week, I walked into our rewinding section and asked our head of rewinding, Esther Phali, what she thought of the CHROME. Her response was simple but powerful: “We love it! This is how printing is meant to be.”’
