Spot varnishing on an offset press is a complex process: the finish (gloss, matte, soft-touch), paper and varnish all play a role, along with the performance requirements of the printed product (scratch resistance, gloss level and coefficient of friction, or COF).

The challenge is that the paper and varnish are often chosen by the customer or purchasing department. That leaves the printer with just one variable to control: the varnishing plate. And that is where success or failure is determined.

A good plate must handle every challenge:

• UV varnishes → uniform release and high mechanical and chemical resistance, to withstand long print runs without breaking down.
• Heavyweight and uncoated papers → a soft, resilient plate that conforms to the paper’s surface.
• Matte varnishes → consistent surface tension; otherwise, the coating becomes uneven and patchy.

To meet all these challenges, we developed POLISPOT polymer varnishing plates: a non-porous surface, dimensional stability and uniform release, even with UV varnishes. Less press downtime, more consistent quality.

➜ Discover why a polymer plate is the more efficient choice Polyurethane Varnishing Plates