(1888PressRelease)
September 09, 2006 - Computer to plate (CTP) technology is used on a daily basis in offset, flexography, and screen-printing workshops. As for pad printing industry, computer to plate equipment laser plate-etching systems have been introduced only recently. However, with latest developments, laser-based systems have the potential to conquer pad printing market over the next couple of years.
1. CTP benefits:
Laser systems enable the user to convert a digital graphic file to a highest quality etched image in just 1 to 5 minutes.
Costs of films, chemicals, consumables shipping, exposure units and removal of hazardous materials are eliminated, as are maintenance contracts on processing equipment and costs of outsourcing steel plate making.
There are four steps to make a plate: import the graphic file into the systems software, apply the halftone pattern to the image, specify the etch-depth parameter in the lasers operating software, and press start.
Laser-imaged graphics are first generation so there is no loss of resolution.
Etch depth and halftone pattern can be accurately fine-tuned to match the type of image you want to print, the viscosity and rheology of the ink used, the speed of the printing machine, and the durometer of the printing pads used. As specifications can be stored on the computer, resulting image quality is completely repeatable.
Laser-based CTP systems can accommodate operating settings for fine, combination fine/bold, and bold graphics.
Laser-engraved plates have a straight-walled etching and more precise inkwell than polymer cliches and thin or thick steel plates.
In addition, CTP users enjoy a number of cost-saving benefits: double-sided laser-etched plates can accommodate up to four images, which reduces plate usage;
2. Cobalt 1000 computer to plate laser:
Inkcups Now introduces the revolutionary COBALT 1000 laser engraver system a computer to plate etching system designed to produce high resolution pad printing plates. This extremely productive, compact system is a breakthrough product for the pad printing industry.
The COBALT 1000 offers dramatic quality, efficiency and process improvements over existing plate technologies. And if this were not enough, the COBALT 1000 is able to engrave thin steel and thick steel clichιs as well as other metallic items.
3. Cobalt 1000 Specifications:
10 watt fiber laser
Self-centering plate clamp system
Vertical micro-adjust system
120mm x 120mm marking area
400mm x 400mm operating area
Cobalt computer to plate printing Software package - handles Adobe Illustrator and .dxf files
Adjustable power, frequency and speed settings
Network capable
Current: 5 Amps Voltage: 110V
Machine Dimensions: 19"W x 31"L x 27"H
Shipping Weight: 145 lbs
For more information please visit http://www.inkcups.com
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