Miraclon has been named a recipient of the 2026 Technical Innovation Award by the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) for its Flexcel Prime Plate, a next-generation flexographic plate technology designed to deliver greater consistency, predictability and efficiency in the pressroom. The award, presented at FTA Forum & Infoflex 2026, recognizes technologies that advance the capabilities and performance of flexographic printing.
The Flexcel Prime Plate builds on the proven foundation of Flexcel NX Technology, introducing new capabilities that help printers address persistent pressroom challenges. By enabling a more stable and controlled printing process, the plate supports faster, more predictable start-ups; reduced unplanned interruptions and press stops; more consistent print results across runs and repeat jobs; improved overall press efficiency with less operator intervention.
A key innovation within the Flexcel Prime Plate is its Seamless Fit Printing capability, which enables full compatibility and interchangeability with existing Flexcel NXH plates. Printers can adopt the new plate without re-profiling, file adjustments or press modifications, and can run mixed plate sets within the same job. This compatibility removes many of the traditional barriers to adopting new plate technology and enables immediate integration into existing workflows without disruption, while maintaining production continuity and minimizing risk.
In addition to improved consistency and ease of adoption, the Flexcel Prime Plate is designed for enhanced durability and resistance to common press challenges such as ink buildup and plate wear. This supports longer run lengths, reduced waste and more stable performance over time.
“The technologies recognized by the FTA this year demonstrate meaningful impact on print quality, operational efficiency and overall process control,” said Kelsey Schmidt, manager of education delivery, Flexographic Technical Association. “The Flexcel Prime Plate highlights the true backwards and forwards capabilities of products launched 18 years apart, enabling printers to transition efficiently without the need to replace entire legacy plate sets when only a single plate requires updating. Together, the FTA Awards reflect the continued advancement of flexographic printing and the industry’s focus on delivering more consistent and efficient production.”
“When we set out to develop the Flexcel Prime Plate, we worked closely with our customers to understand what they needed from the next generation of flexo plates,” said Reid Chesterfield, chief technology and innovation officer at Miraclon. “They wanted a meaningful improvement in press performance, but without the disruption of changing from established Flexcel NXH workflows. That meant we had to make the plate better, but not different. Achieving that balance, with enhanced performance alongside Seamless Fit compatibility, was a significant technical challenge and a key focus for our team.”
This latest achievement builds on Miraclon’s strong track record of innovation recognized by the FTA, including previous award-winning technologies such as the Flexcel NX System, Flexcel NX Ultra Solution, PureFlexo Printing and Shine LED Lamp Kit – each contributing to a more efficient, controlled and sustainable flexographic printing process.
