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Kodak CTP machine uses the principle of offset printing to produce lithographic plates. In this type of machine, the plate material is made of aluminum, and the electromagnetic pump, instead of water, uses a chemical solvent.
The film is exposed indirectly through a large cylindrical lens that blows the image onto the plate. Kodak CTP machines are divided into the following types:
Internal CTP systems
In this print type, plates are internally produced within a printing press. The internal CTP system is easy to install and does not require extra space. However, they have a lower output than the external models.
External CTP systems
Unlike the internal CTP, the external plate maker is placed separately from the printing press. It uses a higher number of plates in each hour as compared to internal CTP. Producing plates externally also allows more flexibility in operations, but they need more space and time than the internal types do.
Single-sided CTP systems
The single-sided CTP system is suitable for low-volume printing. These systems are compatible with many basic digital files and are economical to purchase and operate. However, they are slower compared to duplex systems which double the plate output.
Duplex CTP systems
This system produces two plates simultaneously and is optimal for large-volume printing. It saves time as plates can be produced on either side simultaneously. The Duplex CTP system is more expensive than the single-sided CTP system, but, due to their productivity, they are be profitable in the long run.
The Kodak plate maker has many features that improve its performance and efficiency. Some of these features include:
Resolution
With a high resolution of 2400-4800 DPI, Kodak CTP machines ensure precision plate creation. High resolution leads to better image quality, making them suitable for complex printing tasks.
Speed and Output
Kodak CTP systems are capable of producing large plate outputs. The AchieveMax model produces one plate every ten minutes and has an average paper capacity of 2100 sheets. This speed enables mass production and increases operational efficiency.
Automatic functions
Automatic parts such as plate loading and exposure require less manual intervention and make the process quicker. Automation reduces human error in the printing process and contributes to consistent results. This feature is critical for commercial printing where accuracy is needed.
Environmental friendliness
The Kodak CTP machines use thermal imaging technology instead of conventional chemical plates. This new technology reduces the use of harmful solvents, hence contributing to environmental sustainability. Being eco-friendly, these machines help meet regulatory requirements and reduce environmental impact.
Compatibility with various plates
Kodak CTP systems are adapted to different types of plates, both digital and conventional. Such flexibility allows printing businesses to choose a plate that suits their specific needs, enhancing the system's versatility.
Image consistency
CTP systems ensure that each plate contains the same exposure and imaging, and this leads to consistency in quality. It eliminates variations seen during manual plate production, henceforth helping in accurate colour reproduction and quality maintenance.
Printing Industry
Kodak CTP systems are used by the printing industry to produce lithographic plates. Lithographic plates are made using digital files, which remove the need for film and make the printing process more efficient. In the offset commercial printing, these machines create plates quickly and in large quantities, enhancing this practice's speed and effectiveness.
Packaging
Kodak CTP machines create plates required for printing labels, cartons, and packages in the packaging industry. This plate making improves the quality of the graphics on the packages and enhances the visual appeal of the product. It enables that the plates used for flexible packaging, cartons, labels, etc., are accurate and consistent, which is critical for this industry.
Publication Printing
Publications such as magazines and brochures need quality printing to enhance readability and attractiveness of the publication. Kodak CTP systems produce plates with accuracy and speed, which makes them ideal for high-volume publication printing. This machine's ability to handle complex designs and multiple colours makes it suitable for use in this industry.
Commercial printing businesses
Commercial printing facilities employ such CTP systems to create plates for various printing needs, from business cards to billboards. Kodak ctp plates help reduce the cost of labour and production time because they are driven by a computer.
Textile Printing
In textile printing, Kodak CTP systems are used to produce plates for transfer printing and other printing methods. These machines create plates for various fabrics, designs, and colours, enabling imagination and variety in textile designs. This versatility enhances the workflow and improves the quality of printed graphics on fabrics.
When choosing the right Kodak CTP machine, the following factors should be considered:
Resolution
The resolution of the machine will determine the quality of the image, and a high-resolution machine produces sharper and clearer plates. For industries that require precision, like packaging or publishing, high resolution is crucial.
Plate compatibility
Different plates like thermal and photopolymer plates have different requirements. Ensure that the CTP machine chosen is compatible with the plate material that is preferred in the business. This compatibility will guarantee that the machine works properly and efficiently.
Output and speed
The machines' output capacity also depends on the business volume. A machine with a higher output can help in large operations and ensure the plates are produced in sufficient quantities. The required speed also depends on how fast the job needs to be done or the normal wait time for a job to be done. A faster machine is ideal for both these conditions.
Budget
While this machine can be a good investment, the initial cost must be affordable. Consider the cost of maintenance, operation, and the subsequent number of years the system is going to function. Sometimes, cheaper options could be more costly in the long run.
Integration
Consider how well this machine can fit into the already existing workflow. CTP bridges easily with other prepress equipment. Such seamless integration prevents disruption and improves efficiency. The Kodak ctp setup has to be compatible with the current printing system to reduce the need for adjustment and additional work.
Technical support
Strong and reliable technical support from the vendor is key to solve problems quickly, and the efficiency of the plume, in turn, depends on that. Find out whether the required support is available and what kind of feedback there have been in the past regarding the support services.
CTP improves this practice by eliminating the need for film. This technology creates plates directly from digital files, thus improving efficiency and reducing errors caused by manual work.
The Kodak CTP systems lead to speed, efficiency, and quality. They automate plate making and produce higher quality plates with more accuracy. They are easy to operate and integrate into already existing digital workflows.
Thermal CTP uses heat to create an image on a printing plate, while digital litho, also known as digitally imaged lithographic printing, uses droplet ink to image litho plates. The former is preferred in high volume, while the latter is for low volume.
Routine maintenance activities include cleaning the imaging unit, part replacement when required, and routine system calibration. These practices will ensure optimal performance and extend the life of the equipment.
