Saphira Chemfree Thermal Plate
July 22, 2008
Heidelberg has introduced the Saphira Chemfree thermal plate. The negative working, offset plate is a traditional aluminum grained printing plate that uses a new coating technology called micro spheres. The latex-based micro sphere coating is non-ablative and eliminates traditional thermal plate processing variables. Designed for a wide range of sheetfed commercial printing applications, the plate uses no developer, no water, and no large footprint processor. The technology reduces chemical costs by eliminating high-volume water and waste associated with the traditional thermal process and it is environmentally friendly. Features include: next generation chemistry-free technology with micro sphere coating; non-ablative technology; normal white light handling; support for Heidelberg Suprasetters, Topsetters, and Trendsetters; 100k+ run length capable; UV ink compatible; and expose/gum/print. As with all Heidelberg consumables products, the Saphira Chemfree Plate was developed in close cooperation between Heidelberg and the world's leading consumable manufacturers to deliver optimum performance with Heidelberg equipment.