Computer-to-plate technology primer

main problem:

The thermal technology still has the potential to be tapped. Its proponents believe that it has the following advantages:

High imaging accuracy

Simplified operation

Extend the scope of operations

Plate, film, proofing can be imaged on the same device



Production Process:

All process components must be provided in digital form

The copy of the film web site is just a reference method, a temporary alternative

File Delivery Formats PDF and TIFF/IT-PI have advantages

Proper file generation is very important and you must make a backup in advance

Proofing solution still needs improvement

Users generally think that printing plate reproduction is not a problem



Proofing

Digital proofing program is costly and has fewer options

Remote proofing challenged, but its performance is still improving

Some users have chosen to give up the final proofing first

Printers need layout or blueprint-like proofing



The main advantage:

Reduce film consumption

The cost savings of the film can be used to offset the huge investment in expensive plates and equipment

Reduce print job preparation time

Removed film by hand, thus improving registration accuracy



Recent changes:

Digital workflow becomes more flexible



Plate making technology:

Silver salt (high sensitivity, high resolution, high printing rate): It must be operated under a safety light, and the silver salt removal must be properly handled during the process.



Photosensitive resin: Similar to ordinary plates, it must be treated in aqueous chemical composition. However, compared with the silver salt version, the sensitivity, resolution, and durability of the photosensitive resin plate appear to be very low. With new high-sensitivity resin emulsions, product consistency and graphic robustness can be ensured – this is also the most important consideration when selecting media.



Mixture: Adding a low-sensitivity silver halide mask layer during exposure to a conventional emulsion, this gives the advantage of a compromise between the two materials. However, this mixture requires a long platemaking line and two waste removal channels, as well as more complex manufacturing processes.



Thermal: Touted by some as the culmination of CTP technology, it is said that its advantages include: it can be operated under sunlight, high-resolution reproduction, accurate imaging, and the potential to simplify the process. Only the thermal technology is not as mature as the visible laser system, so the thermal selection has great limitations. The thermal technology still has the potential to be exploited.