Description
Produce and store plates used in lithographic offset printing by running a previously imposed and ripped file to plate or exposing and developing the plate using hand tools or machines.
Alternative labels
upkeep lithographic printing plates
conserve lithographic printing plates
repair lithographic printing plates
maintaining lithographic printing plates
maintain lithographic printing plate
preserve lithographic printing plates
Skill type
skill/competence
Skill reusability level
sector-specific
Relationships with occupations
Essential skill
Maintain lithographic printing plates is an essential skill of the following occupations:
Lithographer: Lithographers make and prepare metal plates to be used as the original in various printing processes and media. Plates are usually laser-etched from digital sources with computer-to-plate technology, but can also be made by applying types of emulsions to the printing plate.
Optional skill
Maintain lithographic printing plates is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this skill may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.
Imagesetter: Imagesetters process images and graphic templates by using phototypesetting machines. They optimise the templates for the best possible result by determining the right arrangement of text and image on the print sheet. The product is then set onto photo paper or film.
Paper embosing press operator: Paper embossing press operators use a press to raise or recess certain areas of the medium, so as to create relief on the print. Two matching engraved dies are placed around the paper and pressure is applied to change the surface of the material.
Prepress technician: Prepress technicians prepare printing processes by formatting, setting and composing text and graphics into a suitable form. This includes the capture of text and image and processing it electronically. They also prepare, maintain and troubleshoot printing presses.
Prepress operator: Prepress operators create a prepress proof, or sample of what the finished product will look like. In many printing contracts, the client at this stage decides whether the print can go through as planned. Since the printing processes for proofs are different from those used in the final process, proofs are always an approximation.
Offset printer: Offset printers handle an offset press in order to print an image. The offset press transfers an inked image from the plate to a rubber blanket before to print it onto the printing surface.
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