Cuttoo plate is a specialized printing plate used in lithography, specifically in photolithography processes. It is an essential tool in the printing industry, particularly for high-quality and high-resolution image reproduction.
The term "cuttoo plate" refers to a thin, flat, and smooth metal plate, typically made of aluminum or zinc, that serves as the base surface for the image transfer process. The plate is prepared by applying a light-sensitive chemical coating, usually a photosensitive polymer or emulsion, onto its surface. This coating reacts to light exposure, allowing for the transfer of the desired image onto the plate.
To create a cuttoo plate, a photographic negative or transparency of the intended image is placed in direct contact with the coated plate surface. The plate is then exposed to ultraviolet light, which causes the coating to undergo chemical changes in areas exposed to light, while the unexposed areas remain unaffected.
Following the exposure, the plate is processed through a series of chemical development and treatment steps to remove the unexposed coating and reveal a relief image of the original design. This image is then ready for the subsequent printing process, where ink is applied to the raised areas of the plate, while the non-image areas repel the ink.
Cuttoo plates offer a high level of detail, precision, and image integrity, making them a favored choice for various printing applications, such as commercial printing, packaging, and fine art reproduction. Their versatility and ability to render intricate images with exceptional resolution have solidified their place as an indispensable component in lithographic printing.
