0.15-0.30 long impression double layers thermal CTP positive plate CXK G4
The CXK G4 is a double-layer thermal CTP positive plate designed for long-run, high-precision commercial and packaging printing. Covering a thickness range of 0.15–0.30 mm, it combines stable aluminum alloy base material, advanced dual-coating technology, and excellent baking resistance to deliver consistent results on both sheet-fed and web offset presses.
This overview focuses on the plate’s structure, performance features, and applications, with data presented in tables for quick reading and comparison.
Product Positioning & Highlights
The CXK G4 is built for printers who demand:
- Long impression life without frequent plate changes
- Stable performance on high-speed thermal CTP platesetters
- Reliable dot reproduction for FM and AM screening
- Excellent resistance to chemicals and repeated cleaning
| Feature Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Plate Type | Thermal CTP positive plate |
| Layer Structure | Double-layer photosensitive coating on grained & anodized aluminum |
| Thickness Range | 0.15–0.30 mm |
| Run Length | Long-run, suitable for extended impressions |
| Imaging | 830 nm thermal laser CTP systems |
| Screen Compatibility | AM up to 250 lpi, FM 20 μm or finer (equipment dependent) |
| Press Compatibility | Sheet-fed & web offset, commercial & packaging |
| Baking Capability | Yes, for extended run and UV ink printing |
Aluminum Alloy Base & Chemical Composition
The CXK G4 uses a high-purity aluminum alloy specifically tailored for printing plates. The base material is optimized for:
- Uniform graining
- Stable anodic layer
- Strong adhesion to the double-layer coating
Typical Alloy Composition (Aluminum Base Sheet)
| Element | Symbol | Typical Range (wt%) | Function in Plate Base |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Al | Balance (≥ 97.0) | Main matrix, ensures flexibility and dimensional stability |
| Silicon | Si | 0.20 – 0.60 | Improves strength, enhances surface graining behavior |
| Iron | Fe | 0.30 – 0.70 | Increases rigidity and wear resistance |
| Copper | Cu | ≤ 0.05 | Controls grain structure, limits corrosion susceptibility |
| Manganese | Mn | 0.05 – 0.30 | Contributes to strength and fatigue resistance |
| Magnesium | Mg | 0.05 – 0.30 | Improves hardness and press durability |
| Zinc | Zn | ≤ 0.10 | Fine-tunes mechanical properties |
| Titanium | Ti | ≤ 0.05 | Grain refiner for improved flatness and uniformity |
| Others | - | ≤ 0.05 (each) | Strictly controlled trace elements |
| Impurities | - | ≤ 0.15 (total) | Kept low for stable photosensitive performance |
Note: Values are typical ranges; actual production values are controlled within narrow internal tolerances.
Double-Layer Coating Structure
The CXK G4’s double-layer structure is central to its performance.
Layer Architecture
| Layer | Main Function | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Top Photosensitive Layer | Accepts laser imaging, forms image areas | High sensitivity, excellent dot reproduction, strong adhesion |
| Under-Coating Layer | Supports imaging, improves chemical resistance | Enhances development latitude and run length |
| Anodized Aluminum | Provides micro-porous anchor & hydrophilicity | Stable water retention, anti-corrosion protection |
| Grained Aluminum | Mechanical anchoring & water balance | Uniform roughness for quick roll-up |
This multi-layer design creates a plate that is tolerant to variations in developer activity, while maintaining a robust image area that withstands abrasion and long runs.
Technical Specifications
Physical Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Value / Range |
|---|---|
| Plate Thickness | 0.15 / 0.20 / 0.25 / 0.30 mm |
| Base Alloy | High-purity Al alloy (printing grade) |
| Surface Roughness (Ra) | 0.30 – 0.50 μm |
| Anodic Layer Weight | 2.5 – 3.0 g/m² |
| Coating Weight (Total) | 1.0 – 1.8 g/m² (depending on gauge) |
| Color of Coating | Blue or dark green (visual contrast) |
| Surface Finish | Matte, optimized for scanning and handling |
Imaging & Processing Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Data |
|---|---|
| Laser Wavelength | 800 – 850 nm (peak around 830 nm) |
| Laser Energy Requirement | 80 – 120 mJ/cm² (device dependent) |
| Resolution Capability | Up to 2400–2800 dpi |
| FM Screening | ≥ 20 μm (depending on CTP system) |
| AM Screening | Up to 250 lpi |
| Latent Image Stability | Excellent, suitable for normal pre-press delays |
| Developer Type | Aqueous alkaline, low-foam, dedicated or compatible thermal plate developer |
| Development Temperature | 23 – 25 °C (recommended) |
| Development Time | 20 – 35 seconds (processor dependent) |
| Finishing | Compatible with standard gum Arabic or synthetic finisher |
Performance and Durability
Run Length & Plate Life
| Condition | Typical Run Length* |
|---|---|
| Conventional inks, non-baked | Up to 200,000 impressions |
| Conventional inks, baked | Up to 400,000 impressions |
| UV inks, baked | Up to 150,000 impressions |
| Alcohol-reduced or alcohol-free dampening | High stability, equipment dependent |
* Run length values are indicative and depend on press conditions, paper choice, ink type, fountain solution, and maintenance.
Print Performance
| Performance Aspect | CXK G4 Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Dot Reproduction | Sharp 1–99% in standard printing ranges |
| Highlight Detail | Excellent retention of fine dots and smooth gradients |
| Shadow Stability | Solid density build-up with minimal dot gain |
| Water–Ink Balance | Fast roll-up, wide water window |
| Start-Up Waste | Low, quick attainment of target density |
| Scratch Resistance | High, especially after baking |
| Background Cleanliness | Non-image areas remain clean and stable over long runs |
Thermal & Chemical Behavior
The CXK G4 is engineered to maintain stability under thermal CTP exposure and during baking, while resisting typical pressroom chemistry.
Thermal and Chemical Properties
| Property | Behavior / Value |
|---|---|
| Thermal Sensitivity | Optimized for 830 nm laser systems |
| Post-Exposure Stability | Low dot gain from latent image to developed plate |
| Baking Capability | 230 – 250 °C, 5–8 minutes (oven dependent) |
| Alkali Resistance | High resistance to plate developer and cleaning agents |
| Acid Resistance | Stable with standard fountain solutions |
| Oxidation Resistance | Excellent shelf life under standard conditions |
Handling, Storage & Safety
Storage Conditions
| Condition | Recommended Range |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | 10 – 25 °C |
| Relative Humidity | 40 – 60 % RH |
| Shelf Life | Up to 18 months from production (unopened) |
| Packaging | Light-tight, moisture-resistant carton and interleaving paper |
Handling Guidelines
| Topic | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Light Exposure | Handle under yellow safelight; avoid direct white or UV light |
| Fingerprints | Use clean, dry gloves to avoid contamination |
| Bending & Punching | Compatible with automatic and manual systems |
| Plate Cleaning | Use approved plate cleaners; avoid strong solvents on non-baked plates |
Main Applications
The CXK G4 is versatile and well-suited for a wide range of print jobs where consistent quality, high run length, and reliable press behavior are essential.
Application Fields
| Application Area | Typical Jobs & Advantages |
|---|---|
| Commercial Printing | Magazines, catalogs, books, inserts, brochures; stable quality over large volumes |
| Packaging Printing | Folding cartons, labels, flexible packaging; good performance with thicker stocks |
| Newspaper Supplements | High-speed web printing with consistent dot control |
| Stationery & Forms | Business forms, envelopes, corporate stationery |
| High-End Advertising | Art books, product catalogs, fashion and cosmetic advertising, demanding color work |
| UV & Hybrid Printing | With baking, supports UV and hybrid inks for packaging and specialty applications |
Competitive Advantages at a Glance
| Advantage Area | CXK G4 Benefit |
|---|---|
| Long Impression Life | Designed for extended run lengths; reduces downtime and plate costs |
| High Imaging Precision | Supports high line screens and FM screening for premium print quality |
| Process Latitude | Tolerant to slight variations in developer and exposure conditions |
| Robust Coating | Double-layer system improves durability, scratch resistance, and bake-ability |
| Balanced Hydrophilicity | Clean non-image areas and fast roll-up |
| Wide Compatibility | Works on major thermal CTP platesetters and standard processors |
The 0.15–0.30 Long Impression Double Layers Thermal CTP Positive Plate CXK G4 is a robust, high-performance solution for printers seeking:
- Long, stable runs
- High-resolution imaging for both AM and FM screening
- Reliable behavior across a broad range of commercial and packaging applications
Its optimized aluminum alloy base, carefully controlled chemical composition, and advanced double-layer coating make it a strong choice for modern thermal CTP workflows where consistency, durability, and print quality are equally important.
