Stork introduces RIP software tool

Stork Prints Austria has introduced a new raster image processing (RIP) software tool that automatically generates ideal dot-dimensions across the whole tonal range, for producing high-quality half-tones by the direct laser engraving process.

Active 3D RIP allows the formation of tailor-made negative and positive dot-shapes. It offers total flexibility when determining the dot dimensions, from 1 percent to 99 percent density; it also allows unlimited dot depth variables, from zero to maximum, and complete shoulder steepness control, with the possibility to vary angles from 0 to 90.

Thanks to the new software tool, the dot formation process is precise, and fast, with minimum manual input needed. The operator simply determines the ideal three-dimensional shape for the smallest dot, as well as for the largest dot. All dot-sizes and shapes are then automatically generated. Because of this, there is no need to compromise quality at any stage of the tonal range, between the smallest dots (e.g. 1 percent), to the largest dots (e.g. 99 percent).

The new Active 3D-RIP software tool will enable the flexo printer to reduce tonal loss by 50 percent, compared with existing 3D dot shaping techniques used in the direct laser engraving process. Furthermore, the software gives the operator the freedom to create virtually any shoulder steepness desired, so that dots, especially in highlight areas, have optimum support. This in turn gives the printing forme improved durability and consistency of printing quality over longer periods.

The direct laser engraving process, launched by Stork Prints in 2004, is an in-the-round method of imaging printing plates and sleeves for flexo, letterpress, and dry-offset applications. It is also used for imaging RotaMesh and RotaPlate electroformed nickel screen cylinders. In relief applications, the process involves the burning away of the non-image areas by a CO2 laser, without the need for UV-light, or time-consuming processes such as exposing, washing and drying. The printing forme is imaged to higher quality standards than is possible by other means, in a shorter time, and in a single process step.

Jan Boerkamp, product manager graphics at Stork Prints Austria, commented: ‘As the only fully digital printing forme imaging method, direct laser engraving offers clear benefits over other UV and ablation mask alternatives. It already offers unrivalled dot-shaping possibilities, superior quality and a fully integrated, simplified workflow with minimal consumable costs. The additional time-saving, quality-enhancing features of Active 3D-RIP give another boost to the competitiveness of direct laser engraving and flexo printing itself.’