Lithography:
This is the most widely used process for printing today. It's seemingly unlimited capability for image reproduction enables a versatility unequaled by any other printing method.
Often referred to as “offset lithography” of “flat printing”, this process relies on the basic principal that water and grease do not mix. Ink is applied, by a series of rollers, to a metal, plastic or paper plate. The application only occurs where the plate has been sensitized to accept the ink - the “grease”. A thin film of water in the non-image areas ensures the precise deposit of ink. the image is then “offset” onto a rubber blanket which in turn transfers it to the paper. As in most printing processes, one plate is used per color, but more than one color can be applied with each pass through the press.
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