DIGITAL PLATES -- Shortcutting the Process

"The advantage of this technology is that the platesetter does not require debris evacuation," Crawford says. "Also, no special laser/imaging systems are needed to image the controlled ablation technology."

The material's current run length capability is in the 25,000 impression range, based on normal press and paper conditions, he adds. An on-press imaging version reportedly is in limited trial with Komori S40D and Heidelberg SM 74DI presses in select markets.