The Flexographic Technical Association is launching the latest edition of its publication FIRST 6.0 (Flexographic Image Reproduction Specifications and Tolerances) at its fall conference in St. Louis, Missouri, Oct. 9-11.

Initially released in November 1997, the new edition will commemorate its 20-year anniversary since inception.

FIRST 6.0 includes updates on the most current, state-of-the-art industry practices utilized for the best results in printing quality and consistency, association officials said. The publication is a globally used workbook, representing a specific methodology for control, optimization, fingerprinting, characterization and process improvements for flexographic printers.

“When introduced to the flexographic printing process, it was described to me as a crude rubber stamp process – only suited to print bread, ice and grocery bags,” says Jeff Randazzo, FIRST founder and past chair. “Shortly after my involvement in prepress, I saw the process much differently.”

Randazzo says he saw the potential to refine the printing process in an effort to compete with a quality that rivals offset and gravure printing, but at a lower cost.

“The rest was straightforward. Just ask consumer product companies,” he adds. “FIRST moved the process to a new level.”

A special 20-year anniversary edition of FIRST 6.0 will be available for purchase at the fall conference. Those interested in obtaining the publication and are unable to attend can get their copy of the newly released publication online at www.flexography.org/shop beginning Oct. 9.

The fall conference will take place at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch.

Visit FTA's website for information on how to save on registration, session details, how to exhibit and more.

Flexographic Technical Association

www.flexography.org