EXPOSURE
An optimal copy is essential for achieving top quality screens. Who doesn’t know about the annoying problems that arise whenever the screens are incorrectly exposed to the light of obsolete MH lamps! It is unavoidable that the consequential problems are thus transferred to the subsequent processes (under- and over-exposure). If you still use the traditional exposure method, then at least make sure that the light source is checked and cleaned at regular intervals.
Today modern, high-speed and efficient MH lamps are part of the minimum standard in screen copying!
During the past few years, this sector has known quite a number of important changes and innovation. Today, we see a growing tendency away from the classical screen copy towards up-to-date illustration and copying technologies. We can discern a world-wide trend towards automatic illustration by means of CtS installations (Computer-to-Screen), which offer various possibilities:
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Ink-based CtS installations – low-priced, low resolution; curing of the layer by means of a MH lamp is necessary.
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Wax-based CtS installations– optimal for large-size formats, low resolution, optimal covering; curing of the layer by means of a MH lamp is necessary.
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Light-based CtS installations– high resolution, direct illustration with light - the optimal solution for IN-LINE installations
The future of a professional screen preparation clearly lies in the use of light-based CtS installations. The advantages of this method are obvious and guarantee that coating procedures using the screen printing technology will remain fully competitive over a long time to come.
What are its advantages compared to the conventional exposure systems?
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No film costs
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No film storage – less space is required
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No dust problem – less need for retouching work
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Faster production – more screens can be handled per shift
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Increased flexibility – shorter reaction times
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Standardized screen preparation
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Comprehensiveness and consistency in data preparation and editing
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Short set-up times on the printing machines – automatic registration
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IN-LINE processes – automation
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You are setting new quality standards
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Motivated staff members – new technology with all the opportunities it offers
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Reduced costs per screen
Conclusion:
The future clearly belongs to the state-of-the-art CtS systems! It is true that at a first glance the high investment cost may be a deterrent, but the many advantages and benefits they offer speak for themselves.
In most cases the moment of return on investment is reached faster than envisioned – provided that the cost calculation is based on all the actual costs.
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Stencil Making - Equipment Focus
