MacDermid to launch new plate technology

US-based plate specialist MacDermid is to launch a new technology that incorporates the flat-top dot benefits of the LUX process into the plate itself, eliminating extra steps in the platemaking workflow.
 
The LUX process produces a digital plate with a unique dot profile from a 1:1 mask-to-plate plate imaging process, meaning the bump curve associated with digital plates is effectively eliminated. LUX is an innovative process developed exclusively by MacDermid, and is made possible by the LUX Laminator and a specialized membrane supplied by MacDermid.
 
LUX-in-the-plate sees this membrane, and the benefits of flat-top dots, incorporated directly into the plate. Field testing of LUX-in-the-plate is expected to begin later this year, with the goal of commercializing the product in 2013.  
 
MacDermid recently celebrated the 100th worldwide LUX installation, and said it continues to expand the reach of technology for making LUX flat-topped dots. MacDermid said the reception of LUX flat-top dot technology prompted the effort to put the functionality of the membrane inside the plate, giving a technology that delivers the LUX dot shape and solid screening enhancement without the need for any extra materials or processes. 
 
‘The incorporation of LUX flat-top dot technology into the plate has posed enormous challenges for MacDermid R&D,’ said Timothy Gotsick, vice president of technology for MacDermid Printing Solutions. ‘Despite these challenges, the progress our development team has made is remarkable.
 
‘Internal print results have clearly demonstrated the technical feasibility of LUX in-the-plate, and we are aggressively pursuing the manufacturing investments and expanded testing program necessary to bring this unprecedented platemaking capability to the flexographic print industry.’
 
Scot Benson, president of MacDermid Printing Solutions, said: ‘Since we brought LUX to market in 2010, we have been pushing ourselves to improve LUX even further. We will continue to invest in enhanced LUX technologies, and intend to make LUX the most effective and the most convenient way for customers to get the most advanced flexo print capabilities in the world.’

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