Sure, here is an explanation of the printing term “offset”.
Offset printing is a printing process in which an image is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket, and then to paper. It is the most common type of printing used for commercial printing, and it is known for its high quality and durability.
The process of offset printing works like this:
- The image to be printed is created on a computer and then transferred to a plate. The plate is made of a material that is coated with a photosensitive emulsion. When the plate is exposed to light, the emulsion hardens in the areas that are not covered by the image.
- The plate is then treated with a chemical that makes the hardened areas ink-receptive. The unhardened areas are washed away, leaving a raised image on the plate.
- The plate is then placed in an offset press. The press has two rollers: a plate roller and an impression roller. The plate roller transfers the image from the plate to the rubber blanket.
- The rubber blanket then transfers the image to the paper. The paper is pressed against the impression roller, which forces the image onto the paper.
Offset printing has several advantages over other printing processes. It is:
- High quality: Offset printing produces high-quality images with sharp details and smooth colors.
- Durable: Offset printing creates prints that are durable and resistant to fading.
- Efficient: Offset printing is a relatively efficient process, which can save money on printing costs.
Offset printing is a versatile process that can be used for a variety of printing applications. It is commonly used for printing books, magazines, brochures, and packaging.
Here are some additional terms that you may find helpful:
- Plate: The plate is the image carrier in offset printing. It is made of a material that is coated with a photosensitive emulsion.
- Rubber blanket: The rubber blanket is a soft, flexible material that transfers the image from the plate to the paper.
- Impression roller: The impression roller is the roller that presses the paper against the rubber blanket, which forces the image onto the paper.
- Printing press: The printing press is the machine that is used to print offset prints.