Make photopolymer plates for flexographic printing

Overview & Purpose

What This Standard Covers

This standard is aimed at pre-press operators who prepare and process photopolymer plates for flexographic printing, covering the complete workflow from preparing plates to troubleshooting issues during production.

Performance Criteria

• Check completeness of job details and required materials
• Match negatives with artwork and imposition
• Ensure non-image density meets quality standards
• Prepare exposure units for desired outputs
• Handle and load plates safely per organizational procedures
• Position plates for proper imaging
• Select exposure values for required plate characteristics
• Expose the assembly according to manufacturers’ guidelines
• Process plates by loading and operating the processor safely
• Maintain solvent supply during runs
• Trim plates to specified sizes
• Check finished plates against company standards
• Rectify minor faults and report unresolved issues
• Minimize waste and follow disposal procedures
• Report readiness of plates for production

Knowledge & Understanding Requirements

• Types and applications of photopolymer plates
• Importance of checking negatives and non-image density
• Processing materials and equipment use and limitations
• Risks involved in handling and operating equipment
• Plate making methods specific to the company
• Safe light conditions in photopolymer processing
• Your company’s waste disposal procedures
• Fault reporting protocols
• Job detail requirements and quality standards

Relevent Roles

• Printers, Printing Machine Minders and Assistants, Printing Trades Suite Post Press