How Are Plates and Dies and Used In Printing?

Do you know about the unsung heroes of the printing industry? Printing plates and dies are the most important components in the printing process that play an incredible role. whether it is paper, plastic, or other materials, these components are used to transfer the image or design onto the substrate.

If you want to explore the different types of plates and printing dies used in the printing industry, how they work, and their versatile applications, have a look at this blog.

Printing Plates

Typically made of metal or polymer, printing plates are highly used in several printing methods, including flexographic, offset, and letterpress printing.

Offset Printing Plates: Made of aluminum, offset printing plates have a coating that is sensitive to light. The coating solidifies and forms the image or pattern that will be printed when it is exposed to light. After that, the non-image areas are eliminated, leaving the plate with an elevated image. After that, ink is placed in the elevated picture and moved to the substrate.

   

Flexographic Printing Plates: Flexographic printing plates are highly used in flexographic printing. They are created in a manner akin to offset printing plates, but they can adapt to curved or uneven surfaces since they are frequently thinner and more flexible. The plates are fixed to a rotating cylinder, which transfers ink to the plate's elevated regions before transferring them to the substrate.

 

Letterpress Printing Plates: Usually composed of polymer or metal, letterpress printing plates are utilized in letterpress printing. Using a chemical procedure, the image or pattern is etched onto the plate to create the plates. After that, the plate is fixed to a cylinder, which presses the ink onto the substrate.

Printing Dies

Printing dies are also known as cutting dies. These dies are used in various printing methods, whether it is flexographic or letterpress printing. These plates are used to cut or shape the substrate into the desired shape or size.  

Flexographic Printing Dies: In flexographic printing, the substrate is cut or shaped using flexographic printing dies, which are usually composed of rubber or polymer. They are produced like that of flexographic printing plates, with the exception that the non-image areas are preserved, resulting in an elevated cutting surface. In order to cut or shape the substrate into the required size or form, the die is fixed onto a cylinder, which presses the die onto the substrate.

Letterpress Printing Dies: In letterpress printing, the substrate is cut or shaped using dies, which are usually composed of metal or polymer. They are created in a manner akin to that of letterpress printing plates, with the exception that a raised cutting surface is left behind after the non-image portions are eliminated. In order to cut or shape the substrate into the required size or form, the die is fixed onto a cylinder, which presses the die onto the substrate.

Applications of Printing Plates and Dies

Whether it is paper, plastic, or metal, printing plates and dies are highly used in a variety of industries for printing purposes. Here are some most common applications of printing plates and dies. Let’s have a look:

• Packaging

• Labels

• Signage

Conclusion:

From the above points, it is clear that printing plates and dies are sure to remain essential components of the printing industry for years to come. At PlateCrafters, we offer a range of high-quality printing plates and dies at affordable prices. Apart from this, if you are looking for commercial printing services, we are large enough to handle your most challenging demands.