Comparative analysis of PS and CTP printing plate processes

Comparative analysis of PS and CTP printing plate processes
1、 Core difference
Principle of plate making:
PS plate needs to be exposed to film (UV light source) and then developed
CTP plate, computer-controlled laser imaging directly on the plate without the need for film
Plate making process:
PS plate, film output → plate exposure → development → printing
CTP plate, digital file → laser exposure → development → printing
resolving power:
PS plate, lower (usually ≤ 200 lpi due to film limitations)
CTP plate, higher (laser precise imaging, up to 300 lpi or more)
Restoration of branches:
PS plate, susceptible to the influence of film and printing process, with blurred dot edges
CTP plate, with sharp dots and smoother transitions in layers
Environmental friendliness:
PS plate, requires chemical film, with significant pollution
CTP plate, no film, reduces chemical waste (some require developer solution)
2、 Comparison of production processes
PS version process
Coating: Aluminum substrate is coated with photosensitive adhesive (diazo compound) after electrolytic oxidation.
Exposure: Exposure occurs in the photosensitive part of the film through ultraviolet light.
Development: Alkaline solution dissolves the unexposed part to form a graphic and textual area.
Defects: The film is prone to scratches and dirt caused by dust, and the stability of the process depends on manual experience.
CTP plate process
Types: divided into thermal sensitive (infrared laser) and photosensitive (purple laser).
Exposure: The digital file directly drives the laser to image on the plate, with an accuracy of micrometer level.
Development: Some models of thermal sensitive plates are exempt from chemical treatment (such as Kodak Tengger Edition).
Advantages: Process automation, reducing human error, suitable for high-precision printing (such as packaging and art).
3、 Process optimization of Chuangda Printing Equipment Group
PS plate improvement
Adopting nano grit technology to enhance the hydrophilicity of aluminum based materials and reduce ink stains.
Develop high-sensitivity photosensitive adhesive to reduce exposure time by 30% (such as the Chuangda PS-3000 series).
CTP plate innovation
Green plate making: Promote process free CTP plates (such as the Chuangda CD-RM series), reducing developer usage by 70%.
Intelligent calibration: Built in AI algorithm compensates for laser energy fluctuations to ensure uniformity of network points.
Cost balance plan
Introducing a hybrid plate making line for small and medium-sized printing factories, with CTP equipment compatible with PS plate washing, reducing transformation costs.
4、 Selection suggestions
PS plate is suitable for short live parts, low precision promotional materials, and existing equipment in traditional printing factories.
CTP plate is suitable for long printing, high network cable count (175 lpi or more), and fast cycle orders (such as newspapers and magazines).
Chuangda's analysis points out that CTP plate is the mainstream in the future, but PS plate still has cost advantages in specific markets. Enterprises need to make comprehensive choices based on their own order structure and equipment investment capabilities, while paying attention to the trend of environmental regulations restricting traditional plate making.