Product of the Month: MacDermid Lava photopolymer plate processing system

What does the machine do?
The MacDermid Lava plate processing system represents the latest advancement in thermal plate-making technology. Thermal plate-making improves productivity and workflow, generating press-ready plates in less than an hour. Additionally, Lava thermal plate processing eliminates solvents and VOCs from the plate-making process, resulting in a more environmentally friendly process.

Which are the different models?
There were three models available. Currently, we are focusing on only one model, Lava 4260.

How do these models differ from each other?
The primary differences were the size of printing plates and advanced features. Now, we have put all the features in a single machine.

Is there anything in the machine which is available as a standalone?
MacDermid Lava plate processing system is a standalone machine. Its small footprint reduces plate-making space and can create press-ready plates in less than an hour, instantly improving productivity and workflow, according to MacDermid Graphics Solutions. The Lava thermal processing eliminates the need for solvents and makes in-house plate making a viable option for the narrow- to mid-web market.

When was the equipment launched?
It was launched in 2005.

What was the thought process when the equipment was conceived?
We wanted to create a machine for a perfect operating plate room. We also wanted to address the concerns of the converters. The goal was to provide a solvent-free plate-making solution without compromising the quality – press-ready plates in less than an hour while eliminating solvents and VOCs in plate-making, featuring advanced design with improved ergonomics.

What is the target market(s)?
The Lava plate processing system is ideal for narrow-, mid-, and wide-web applications. 

What kind of substrates it can handle?
It can handle photopolymer plates from 1.14-mm up to 2.84-mm thickness. 

How fast is it?
The processing speed of Lava 4260 is 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the plates. The Lava 4260 can process plates up to 42x60-inch. 

What are the USPs of the equipment?
The USPs include: capability of ITP and standard digital products for thermal; no extra cost for thermal printing compared to solvents; no solvent means no drying; comparable exposure and finishing times; no solvent waste to manage results in environmental benefits; water consumption, energy use, and ozone-depleting equivalent (CFCs) are reduced by 59%, 30%, and 60%, respectively; and compatibility with emerging technologies.

How easy is it to use?
The MacDermid Lava plate processing system is user-friendly and very easy to use.

What training and support are on offer?
After installation, we provide full support and training to our customers. Our local engineers are fully trained to provide after-sales support.

How much does it cost?
The cost ranges from Euro 1,10,000 to 1,35,000. The exact cost will be as per the specifications. 

Users’ numbers worldwide? 
We have more than 150 installations of the Lava machine across the world. We have installed one Lava in India so far, and are expecting to install more soon.