NA Graphics

Plate Processors / Supplies

JET Photopolymer Plate Processing Unit

We carry Jet Photopolymer Plate Processing Machines. The Jet Line consists of two series of machines, the original Jet A-3, A-4, and A-5 machine with manual controls that is manufactured in Japan, and the 350, 520 and 750 plate processors that are made by AZ in Italy and have all digital controls. We use a manual Jet A-3 machine at NA Graphics for plate processing that has been in use now for 12 years and we have been very satisified with its performance. These machines are complete, modern, accurate and rugged solutions for those requiring in-house plate processing capabilities. These units are delivered fully assembled. Mounted on industrial strength casters for portability, the stainless steel body and rugged construction of these instruments ensure years of quality operation.

All Jet processors come with a one year manufacturer's warranty.

Due to the weight of these units, freight charges will need to be calculated by our staff. Use the prices listed for estimating purposes for plate processors, but obtain a firm qoute from us for current pricing before placing an order. Please call us if you have any questions.

Photopolymer Material

We sell steel-backed photopolymer material in packages of 10 sheets. The material is 0.057 inches thick, and has a Brinell Hardness of 90-95. Volume discounts are available for larger orders. Please contact us for more information.

We offer three choices in magnetic bases for use with the steel backed plates. The basic wood base (MDF board) with a magnetic surface is inexpensive and can be cut with ordinary wood working equipment. We recommend this for use in forms containing metal type or for experimentation and learning purposes. The second is a precision milled aluminum base with a magnetic surface, also known by the trade name PatMag. The highest quality is the Bunting Magnetic Base, that has ceramic magnets embedded in the surface of the base. The Bunting is a precision piece of work and is used where the best quality coupled with deep impression is sought. The Bunting is also the most expensive, but is the hands down choice of the professional letterpress printer. It is best to call us for pricing and availability on all three bases. The Bunting bases listed below are one to two week delivery direct from Bunting. Other sizes are two to three week delivery. Standard height of Bunting bases is .860", but they will finish grind to match your plate. Order two or more bases of the same size at the same time and there is a price discount--for example, 2 of the MB204 list for $262.00 each.

Plate Base Sizes--the temptation is to fill the chase with the largest base that will fit, along with at least one quoin for lockup. This creates immediate problems with platen presses in particular in that gauge pins and most grippers can not be used in the area that the base takes up, and that means feeding small items, like envelopes or reply cards, to the bottom left corner of the platen just to get to the gauge pins. And that can be very awkward. It is best to consider getting two bases, one on the smaller size for cards, envelope return addresses, etc., so that feeding the stock is not a nightmare. Pre-planning will save a lot of grief later on.

Please contact us for information on film backed plates, or other depths or brands of plates. Although we specialize in the Jet steel backed plates, we are equipped to make any water washout plate and with minumum orders, can supply other plate material than that listed on this site.

"Aluminum Base with magnetic surface for steel backed photopolymer plates, 10x12"
$321.00
AM1012
This is the world famous Patmag base, made by veteran printer and type caster Pat Reagh. The sizes that follow this one are all Patmag bases. Pat's experience goes back before most of us were born, and he continues to produce exquisite letterpress work and the Patmag base from his work shop tucked away in the country north of the Bay Area in Northern California. Our prices are Pat's list prices, and he drop ships for us direct from his shop. Pat won't take credit cards, but we do, so buy two or three and help the economy. Remember that one large base that fills up most of the chase can put a serious crimp in your ability to print, so give us a call if in doubt.

PatMag bases can be resurfaced if magnetic covering becomes damaged, worn, or if excessive use of solvent loosens the attaching adhesive. Damaged aluminum can not be repaired. Return base to NA Graphics and Pat will speedily replace the covering and ship direct. Cost to resurface is far less than buying a new base.

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