Why did you switch to the plates?
They are faster in terms of imaging time than the plates we were using previously and when they are developed they give a very good black image. This is much better than previous plates because it provides us with another check of what is on the plate before it goes on the press. The process for the plates is also a more stable system because it only uses warm water to develop so you don’t get any degrading in the chemicals. This means you can trust the fact every plate will be the same and that gives much better integrity. Price was also a big factor.
Why did you choose these particular plates?
They were the right price and we got great service from Presstek.
Did you look at any other similar plates – if so which?
We looked at the processless plates from Agfa. We also looked at Fuji because we were using their plates before.
What features do you particularly like about the plates?
The speed and the fact they show such a bulk image once they are developed.
Is there anything that you dislike?
The only small issue is cleaning out the processor; it is time consuming.
Is there anything that you wish they had that they don’t have?
No.
How fast are they?
They take less laser power than the plates we were using. Now we output 20% more plates than we used to.
How reliable are they?
Very. We hardly ever have a down plate. We use 2,000 per month and I can’t remember the last time we had a problem.
What’s the quality like?
We get the end result that we and our customers expect.
Would you say that it has saved you any time or money?
They are 20% cheaper than the last plates we were using.
Would you say that it offers value for money?
Yes.
Did the changeover go to plan?
Yes; there was no interruption to any of our work.
How was the pre- and after-sale service?
Brilliant. We had an issue with the processor and the service engineer was here the next morning. Whenever we are running short of plates, Presstek cabs some over or the rep delivers them.
What type of business do you think the plates are right for?
Those who do a lot of short-run makereadies.
Based on your own experience of using it would you recommend it to somebody else?
Yes.
Have you any plans to switch to another product?
No, we use them all the time.
CONCLUSION
User’s verdict
Speed 4/5
Quality 5/5
Reliability 5/5
Value for money 5/5
Supplier’s response
Peter Swann, Presstek UK area manager, says: "These chemistry-free, 100%-daylight-safe, thermal-anodised, grained aluminum plates are certified for use on 830nm computer-to-plate systems. As such they are a great way for printing operations to harness significant time and cost savings. Sharper image quality, faster roll-up on press and improved stability are added benefits that can make all the difference to printers working hard to improve their operating margins."
Price From £8.50m2 (based on volume of plates used and contract period)
Contact Presstek 08450 552288
