CtP, Analog, and Polyester
Plate Processing Equipment
On-Line and Off-Line
Film Processing Equipment

CARNFELDT & HEIDELBERG INTRODUCE 12 MIL POLY PLATE SOLUTIONS

Heidelberg USA and CA Systems unveiled their new imagers and on-line processors for 12 mil polyester plate material at the Directions 2000 show in Las Vegas, June 26th. The Heidelberg Primesetter 74 and Primesetter 102 are the latest generation of imagesetters from Heidelberg USA for film and/or polyester plates. The Carnfeldt EP 900 and 1140 on-line processors have been specifically designed to function on-line with the Primesetter for polyester plate, including 12 mill polyester plates.

Carnfeldt EGP 901 On-Line in the Heidelberg Booth At HDIA

With the Carnfeldt processors ability to transport and develop 12 mil polyester plates, the full advantages of polyester plates over metal plates and film will finally be realized. The 12 mil material's thickness allows for the developed plate to be sent directly to the press without any repacking or adjustments made to the press or plate that would differ from metal plate processing. Testing at Heidelberg facilities in Kiel, Germany, and Atlanta, Georgia have confirmed that the 12 mil poly plate produced by the Primesetter and the Carnfeldt processor has produced results nearly identical to those of metal plates. In addition, the polyester plates are now officially rated by the manufacturers at up to 175 line screens. Factor in the cost savings of polyester plates over metal plates and the entire system becomes very attractive.

Heidelberg Demonstrator Compares the Quality of Polyester and Metal Plates

Perhaps the most exciting new development from CA Systems in this field, is its new EGP 901 on-line "Combi" processor for the Heidelberg Primesetter. This six bath processor is capable of developing both film and polyester plates in the same on-line processor, including the new 12 mil polyester plate material. This all unique and innovative system allows prepress operations to become more versatile and cost effective. It is an excellent alternative to costly, metal CtP systems. Carnfeldt Combi processors have been installed at all four of Heidelberg's regional demonstration facilities and like the other model Carnfeldt processor for the Heidelberg Primesetter, they are available from Heidelberg USA, Heidelberg Canada, Kodak Polychrome Graphics and Aldin Graphiques of Anjou, Quebec.