MacDermid was the first flexo photopolymer plate supplier to develop and commercialise an in-the-plate (ITP) flat-top dot solution that required no changes to the traditional platemaking workflow – LUX ITP60. 

The award-winning LUX In-the-Plate technology brought the quality and consistency benefits of a flat-top dot solution along with the convenience of having the best dot shape built right into the plate.

At drupa, MacDermid will introduce additions to the LUX ITP product portfolio to extend the benefits to even more applications. Specific innovations that will be featured at the show include:

· LUX ITP M: A softer version of LUX ITP 60, LUX ITP M is well suited for paperstock, folding carton and tag and label applications. This plate will provide printers with the benefits of medium durometer printing plates, including improved solid ink density and increased plate flexibility. It is available in sizes up to 50 x 80 inches (1320 x 2032 mm) and in thicknesses of .045 inches (1.14 mm) to .112 inches (2.84 mm).

· LUX ITP C: A capped version of ITP 60, its modified surface allows for better ink transfer and superior coverage and builds on the company’s years of capped plate experience and knowledge that began with EPIC and Digital EPIC products. The plate is specifically developed for maximum compatibility of the cap layer with the ITP chemistry, as well as for roughness consistency throughout the cap layer. It is available in sizes up to 50 x 80 inches (1320 x 2032 mm) and in thicknesses of .045 inches (1.14 mm) and .067 inches (1.70 mm).

· Digital MAF: MacDermid has engineered a dot that is suited for the corrugated market. The Digital MAF dramatically reduces fluting in corrugated direct print applications. Customers have noted it has the lowest fluting they have ever seen with a digital plate. Digital MAF is available in thicknesses of 0.112 inches (2.84 mm) – 0.250 inches (6.35 mm) in sizes up to 50 x 80 inches (1320 x 2032 mm).

· LUX Lamination: MacDermid’s original flat top dot production technique has been adopted by hundreds of printers and platemakers worldwide. The company continues to support this proven method of flat-top dot creation, and new platemaking technologies are in late stage development to complement this process. A new laminator will be on display at drupa in the LUX technology corner.