Conventional Flexo Plate

[aqazi81]

Hi all,

We make digital flexo plates, but due to some supply chain issue, we had to temporarily switch to conventional plates, I want to know how to ensure the air removal between the film and plate?
This issue is causing us a lot of plate wastage. Although the vacuum pump is in perfect shape. Any tips and tricks would be greatly appreciated.

 

[SteveSuffRIT]

Make sure your film is matte textured to allow air to escape.

 

[aqazi81]

Can someone explain why the strips are placed before exposure in conventional plates.

 

[arkay_desai]

This is to avoid generating gap between negatives and plate.

 

[aqazi81]

This is to avoid generating gap between negatives and plate.

I have read that these are special grooved strips to improve the vacuum, from where can I find these or is there any material that we can use for the same purpose?