The launch follows Esko's announcement last week of Pixel+, "an optical, electronic and screening enhancement for HD Flexo imaging to support flat-top dot creation", which the manufacturer said was aimed at partners including DuPont DigiCorr and DigiFlow, MacDermid Lux and Flint NExT.

DuPont said the upgrade, which will be demonstrated on its stand in Dusseldorf (C24, Hall 8b), would deliver superior print quality and productivity to Cyrel DigiFlow users.

It is said to offer 1:1 image reproduction, extended colour gamut, the ability to switch between standard and hybrid dots and higher solid ink densities with no additional plate-making steps. It is compatible with CDI and HD Flexo products.

"Higher quality at higher speed is our focus, and the enhanced capabilities of the new Cyrel DigiFlow system continue to provide our customers with a competitive advantage," said Tracy Lunt, global technical manager, DuPont Packaging Graphics.

"Cyrel DigiFlow is a powerful tool to improve solid ink densities and print contrast, while maintaining the outstanding image quality typically associated with Cyrel, all within the existing digital workflow."

Meanwhile, DuPont has announced a global price rise for all Cyrel products, including Cyrel photopolymer plates, Cyrel FAST processing equipment, and Cyrel round sleeves, mounting and finishing products.

The net increase is up to 5%, depending on the product, and the global price hike will come into effect from 2 April 2012. DuPont Packaging Graphics said that it "continued to pursue manufacturing productivity improvements and cost reduction initiatives to offset higher raw materials costs".