Plate processor for inkjet and conventional offset plates

Conventional plate processors are large and complex machines, transporting the plate through multiple stages (washing, development and drying) using roller systems. These systems are fast and deliver excellent quality, but their mechanical complexity also makes them expensive.

The StudioRIP plate processor is based on a fundamentally simpler approach. The plate remains stationary during processing, while water and developer are alternately applied through a controlled spray system, followed by hot air drying.

This design results in a significantly more compact and cost-effective solution. The trade-off is lower throughput – typically around 10–12 plates per hour – which is below the speed of conventional processors.

However, for users whose production volume fits within this range, the StudioRIP processor provides a fully automatic, space-saving alternative at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems.

Models

• StudioRIP DTP 24 processor: maximum 525×459 mm plates
• StudioRIP DTP 36 processor: maximum 605×745 mm plates
• StudioRIP DTP 44 processor: maximum 1030×770 mm plates

Specifications

• Fully automatic operation: insert the imaged plate, remove the processed and dried plate
• Compatibility: suitable for both inkjet CTP and conventional CTP systems
• Plate size range: from 459 × 525 mm to 770 × 1030 mm
• Processing speed: approx. 10–12 plates/hour (depending on settings and plate size)
• User interface: 3.5″ color touchscreen with graphical interface
• Configurable processing parameters: fully adjustable wash, development and drying cycles, including timing and modulation (e.g. spray and dwell sequences), as well as fresh developer replenishment
• Water consumption: can be significantly reduced at the expense of processing speed

Technology

• The plate is inserted in a near-vertical position (slightly inclined for stable positioning)
• Water is sprayed onto the plate through a grid of nozzles until the inkjet coating and ink are removed (this step can be disabled when processing conventional plates)
• Developer is then applied through the same nozzle system until the plate is fully processed (the developer is continuously recirculated and filtered)
• A post-wash stage removes residual chemicals from the plate
• The plate is dried using controlled hot air jets