Flint Group unveils flake-free innovation for high-impact shrink sleeves

Flint Group has announced a significant expansion to its UV LED dual-curing flexo ink range with the launch of EkoCure XS Shrink Whites, a new formulation specifically engineered to eliminate flaking and cracking in demanding shrink-sleeve applications.

The new inks address one of the most persistent technical hurdles in the packaging industry: maintaining ink integrity in high-shrink or high-stress areas of a sleeve. Traditionally, these areas are prone to defects that can compromise a brand’s shelf appeal.

Key technical advantages

• Robust adhesion: the EkoCure XS series provides an ultra-smooth, tough white base designed to resist flaking even under extreme shrinkage.
• Dual-curing flexibility: leveraging Flint Group’s dual-curing technology, the inks are compatible with both traditional UV and modern UV LED curing presses. This allows converters to streamline their workflows without needing separate ink inventories for different press types.
• Operational efficiency: the formulation eliminates the need for ink stripping during standard tape or crinkle testing, significantly reducing waste and set-up time.
• Optimised performance: to ensure maximum opacity and the correct coefficient of friction (COF), Flint Group recommends a total ink film thickness not exceeding 15 bcm.

Rob Stendahl, R&D technology manager at Flint Group, highlighted the practical benefits for printers: “High-shrink, high-stress areas routinely risk exposing whites to cracking and flaking that can ruin print quality. This new formulation is designed to resist these challenges and deliver a glossy, durable finish that keeps branded graphics looking their best.”

The solution is designed to integrate with the rest of Flint Group’s ink “toolbox,” enabling longer, high-speed production runs with consistent results. By reducing print defects and downtime, the company aims to help converters meet the increasingly high aesthetic demands of brand owners.

The EkoCure XS Shrink Whites are currently available to customers across North America.