With more than 1,500 customers already embracing the process free revolution started by KODAK THERMAL DIRECT Non Process Plates, the new KODAK SONORA XP Process Free Plate is the next step in the evolution of process free thermal technology. The SONORA XP Process Free Plate will be shown at drupa 2012 in the Kodak stand (Hall 5, F09-1).

Offering high-quality thermal imaging and the complete elimination of plate processing, SONORA XP Plates increase productivity, simplify operations, and remove costs by reducing the number of steps required for platemaking. These plates completely eliminate all costs associated with processing equipment and chemistry, while requiring less floor space and reducing energy consumption—all great for the environment, but even better for the bottom line.
The KODAK SONORA XP Process Free Plate will be introduced immediately into the European region with global expansion to follow later in 2012.

Designed for commercial printers of all sizes as well as large web publication printers, SONORA XP Plates use a write-the-image, non-ablative technology that offers enhancements in both imaging speed and latent image contrast over THERMAL DIRECT Plates, to improve a customer’s productivity and the plate’s ease of use.

“Our clients are keen on high-quality printing coupled with sustainability benefits,” said Andrew Langridge, Systems Manager, W.O. Jones (Printers) Ltd. Founded in 1904, W.O. Jones is a family-owned commercial printer located in Anglesey, North Wales, and served as a beta test site for SONORA XP Plates. “SONORA XP Plates make just-in-time platemaking a reality while providing ease of use, quick cleanup and critically enabling printers to maximize their press performance as the plate renders a very sharp dot and is hard wearing.”

“The industry looks to Kodak as a leader in the process free thermal plate market,” said Rich Rindo, Kodak’s Director, Global Product Marketing of Printing Plates Business. “This new plate improves an industry-proven, robust solution by incorporating next-generation technology into a product that customers already love. Process free solutions are here to stay, and because of the benefits both to the environment and the bottom line, the number of customers using these solutions is rapidly growing every day. We will keep pushing the envelope in new product development to bring industry-leading solutions to the market.”

Post-imaging, SONORA XP Plates can go immediately to press, where a state-of-the-art coating technology and the physical properties of a lithographic press prepare the plate for print during normal start-up procedures. These plates provide customers the same resolution, reliability, accuracy, and repeatability as traditionally processed thermal plates, while improving stability and consistency of print due to the elimination of those unstable, hard-to-maintain processing systems.

“Increased awareness and tighter regulations around the world will make process free technology more widely embraced as print providers look to establish a more environmentally responsible presence,” added Rindo. “SONORA XP Plates help customers tell a better environmental story while providing them operational cost reductions and high-quality reproduction for a wide range of print projects.”

For more information about Kodak at drupa, visit www.kodak.com/go/drupa.

Kodak is a global advisor and provider of integrated services to help companies transform and optimize their businesses. Through a network of service professionals in more than 120 countries, Kodak provides technical, professional, consulting and managed services to enable customers to focus on growing their businesses, maximizing productivity, and more effectively managing risks. All KODAK Products and Software are backed by KODAK Service and Support. To learn more, please visit www.graphics.kodak.com.