Offset printing involves the process of separating pages using jets of air. Paper passes through the impression cylinder and blanket cylinder before it moves onto the next unit to receive the next color. When finished, materials pile up at the end of the press where they are then dried. At the end of the press, a thin layer of powder separates pages for drying. Once the process is complete, the pages are ready to be mailed or distributed.
Offset lithography
Offset lithography is a popular option for companies that need high-quality printed materials. This process offers the highest quality color matching and consistency. This method allows for variable data and information to be used on printed pieces that otherwise have identical characteristics. For example, a postcard with a different image can be used to promote a concert. Offset lithography printing services are more suited for this type of printing, as they offer flexibility in the choice of paper stock and specialty materials.
In most cases, offset lithography printing services can accommodate heavier weight stock than digital options, making it a viable option for some projects. For example, it is possible to print on heavy stocks, such as canvas, without worrying about how a large-format document will turn out. The process of creating each print involves making two separate plates of the image to be printed on. Then, these prints must be dried and collated. Offset lithography printing services can benefit a variety of industries, including newspaper and magazine publishers, and desktop publishing companies.
Sheet-fed Printing Machines
When it comes to offset printing services sheet-fed printing is an important part of the process. These machines are capable of printing on a variety of materials, including heavier stock and specialty papers. They are ideal for a variety of applications, from basic bi-colored letterheads to complex lithographed envelopes. For larger-scale jobs, such as newspapers, catalogs, and glossy magazines, web printing is the best choice. A sheet-fed machine can print up to 18,000 pieces per hour.
Offset printing services that use sheet-fed equipment can produce high-quality printed products with exceptional accuracy. Unlike web offset printing, sheet-fed offset presses are much more efficient. For instance, newer sheet-fed machines are equipped with sophisticated electronic controls, which reduce print waste and speed up set-up. Ultimately, a sheet-fed offset press can help you save money by producing more consistent products.
Cost of Offset Printing
If you're in need of a printed advertisement, you've probably considered using offset printing services. This method of printing utilizes four colors to produce one final product. It is also cheaper than other methods of printing, since the plates are easily reusable. Offset printing services use Heidelberg equipment, which is known for its superior workmanship. Listed below are some factors to consider when evaluating the costs of offset printing services. Let's examine these factors.
Offset printing requires a longer setup time than digital printing. The break-even point of offset printing services is around 2,500 sheets, though the number of plates used can vary depending on the project. Using the process, however, can make a big difference in the final cost. Digital printing is also much faster, with minimal setup and tear-down. It is also possible to print on larger sheets of paper, such as brochures, catalogs, or books.
Characteristics of Offset Printing
The process of offset printing involves three cylinders - the plate cylinder, the blanket cylinder, and the impression cylinder. The plate cylinder contains a metal plate, while the blanket cylinder is covered with a rubber sheet. The impression cylinder presses the paper against the blanket cylinder. The plate cylinder comes in contact with a series of inking rollers and water-holding areas. The ink reaches the image, which transfers to the blanket and offsetting the paper traveling around the impression cylinder.
To make offset printing more durable, inks are available in different finishes and additives that help the ink dry faster. Because the process uses fountain water, it requires a modified press and different components. To achieve 100% success, the process should have better process control. Water-cooled rollers keep the press temperature at a controlled level. Since inks are highly temperature sensitive, the higher the temperature, the thinner the ink will become, and the process will be compromised.