However, some form of physical preparation step still is required. This may simply involve wiping or washing the plates with water prior to installation on the press. Or, plates may be "processed" on-press by the action of the ink, water and blanket during makeready.
Thermal ablative imaging is the most common technology used in processless plates, but Agfa currently also offers a phase-change product and other options are being explored in labs around the world. By definition, the ablative process involves removing material from the surface of the plate through the application of energy by the laser. As a result, a platesetter must be fitted with a vacuum/evacuation system to capture loosened particles, if it is to be used for imaging ablative plates.
DIGITAL PLATES -- Covering the Spectrum
However, some form of physical preparation step still is required. This may simply involve wiping or washing the plates with water prior to installation on the press. Or, plates may be "processed" on-press by the action of the ink, water and blanket during makeready.
Thermal ablative imaging is the most common technology used in processless plates, but Agfa currently also offers a phase-change product and other options are being explored in labs around the world. By definition, the ablative process involves removing material from the surface of the plate through the application of energy by the laser. As a result, a platesetter must be fitted with a vacuum/evacuation system to capture loosened particles, if it is to be used for imaging ablative plates.