Emphasizing its strong commitment to sustainability, XSYS will present its range of precision-engineered rotec® sleeves and adapters at drupa 2024. The rotec® brand, known for its long-lasting quality and innovative solutions, has the most active patents for sleeves and adapters. Building on this legacy, the rotec® team proudly introduces the rotec® eco series of sleeves, the next generation of sustainable products designed to achieve brilliant print performance with minimal environmental impact.

“As a pioneer of sleeve technology since 1990, rotec® has always been ahead of its time when it comes to sustainability. Offering solutions tailored to the needs of each operation, many innovations have long been delivering exactly what customers are asking for today – shorter press startup times, faster changeovers, quick delivery, less waste and safer operator conditions,” said Product Manager Gina Wienbracke. She added, “These products already contribute to a more sustainable world through their robust construction or accessories that extend the product lifetime. When sleeves and adapters last longer, they deliver a stronger return on investment and lower total cost of ownership for our customers, while reducing waste.”

A notable example is INNI Group in Belgium, which has been using the same set of rotec® Offset Sleeves for over 15 years. This demonstrates the longevity and superior performance of rotec® sleeves. Geert Lamon, Operator at INNI Group, praised the sleeves, saying, “rotec® Offset Sleeves guarantee perfect register. They’re also much lighter with better printing quality, higher definition, and much more precise dots. When using rotec®, I don’t have to worry about handling, mounting, or printing. It simply works!”

XSYS continues to innovate, extending product life and maximizing efficiency. Among these innovations is the rotec® eco Xtra Ring, a patented air distribution technology that simplifies mounting, reduces compressed air requirements, and prevents edge wear. Additionally, the rotec® Smart Premium Sleeve and High Performance Sleeve incorporate a barrier layer for extended lifetime, use state-of-the-art raw materials for lighter weights, reduced bounce, and faster press speeds. The rotec® multi-sleeve adapter features unique pin technology for easy switching of sleeve lengths on the same adapter, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

New introductions at drupa include a range of compressible accessories designed to protect sleeves from damage during handling and extend product life. The rotec® structured sleeve surface for flexographic printing allows air bubbles caught under the mounting tape to escape more easily, reducing tape waste and ensuring excellent print quality.

Environmental responsibility remains a core focus for rotec® in its global strategy. Several production optimization programs are in place to reduce waste and improve the carbon footprint. Gina Wienbracke concluded, “The true vision for the next generation of sustainability for sleeves is to assess the entire product life cycle from production to customer to end of life. The rotec® eco family of sleeves are pushing the boundaries by incorporating renewable resources and increased recycled content to achieve reduced environmental impact.”

XSYS invites visitors to drupa to their booth in Hall 8b (A30) to see the technology in action with live demos, print samples on various presses, and the newest sleeve storage system from partner Ulmex Industries. Visitors can meet the team to discuss the needs of their printing operations and explore opportunities to implement sustainable solutions from rotec®.