1. Exposure Timing

For plate-making, it is best to adopt a just-in-time approach – schedule the output of processless CTP plates about half an hour before they are needed on press. Avoid exposing the plates to daylight for extended periods.

2. Storage

Prepare a dedicated wooden box for storing processless CTP plates. Coat the inside with non-reflective paint and fit it with a recessed lid for light-tight protection. Alternatively, reinforce the openings of the original CTP plate cartons by lining them with double-layered black paper.

3. Plate Mounting

During plate output and mounting on press, avoid touching the plates directly with bare hands. It is recommended to wear gloves when handling them.

4. Plate Replacement

When running long print runs, if dot loss or plugging occurs during development and the plate needs to be replaced, processless CTP plates have certain limitations. Extra attention should be paid in such cases.

5. Operational Habits

Processless CTP plates require dampening through the water roller. The procedure is: first engage the water roller and dampen for 2–3 minutes, then engage the ink roller to transfer the emulsified gum layer onto the waste sheet, thereby completing the development process. This changes the traditional operating habits of press operators.

Overview of Plate Types (Currently Available on the Market)

1. Agfa Azura TS/TU

The earliest commercialized processless plate (Type 1). Exposure energy: 200 mJ/cm² (twice that of conventional CTP, meaning slower speed). Requires a Clean-out Unit, with the gum solution replaced approximately every 300–400 plates (20L per batch, no replenisher needed, meaning waste liquid is still generated). Advantages: Visibility is similar to conventional CTP plates. Disadvantages: High exposure energy (double), poor dot reproduction (2%–98%), low press life (rated at 100,000 impressions), not suitable for UV ink, and cannot be baked.

2. Agfa Azura TE

Type 2 on-press development plate. Advantages: Normal dot reproduction, can print limited UV ink. Disadvantages: Average visibility (cannot be measured with IC plate), high exposure energy (approx. 70%), low press life (rated at 75,000 impressions), cannot be baked.

3. Agfa Amigo TS

Type 1 processless plate. Uses gum with replenisher required (50 ml/m²); chemical life is 6 weeks. Advantages: High press life (rated at 200,000 impressions). Disadvantages: High exposure energy (80%), poor dot reproduction (2%–98%), not suitable for UV ink, and cannot be baked.

4. Kodak Sonora XP

Type 2 processless plate. Advantage: Can run up to approx. 10,000 impressions with UV ink. Disadvantages: Average visibility (cannot be measured with IC plate), high exposure energy (70%), low press life (rated at 100,000 impressions), cannot be baked.

5. Fuji Pro-T3

Type 2 processless plate. Advantage: Low exposure energy (normal). Disadvantages: Average visibility (cannot be measured with IC plate), low press life (rated at 100,000 impressions), not suitable for UV ink, and cannot be baked.

6. Huaguang TP-G/TD-G

Type 2 processless plate. Advantage: processless. Disadvantages: Average visibility (cannot be measured with IC plate), high exposure energy (70%), low press life (rated at 100,000 impressions), not suitable for UV ink, and cannot be baked. (It is understood that this plate currently has long delivery times and requires stringent storage conditions.)

7. EcooGraphix Ecoo-G

Type 2 processless plate. Press life: 50,000–70,000 impressions with conventional ink, 20,000–30,000 impressions with UV ink. Offers good color contrast and visibility. Shelf life: 12 months.

Edited and Interpreted by

Zoey Zhang, EcooGraphix Sales and Marketing

Zoey@ecoographix.com