EP1026004B1 - Blanket having variable surface properties for a printing machine - Google Patents

Blanket having variable surface properties for a printing machine Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1026004B1
EP1026004B1 EP00400293A EP00400293A EP1026004B1 EP 1026004 B1 EP1026004 B1 EP 1026004B1 EP 00400293 A EP00400293 A EP 00400293A EP 00400293 A EP00400293 A EP 00400293A EP 1026004 B1 EP1026004 B1 EP 1026004B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
blanket
varies
layer
transverse direction
printing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP00400293A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1026004A1 (en
Inventor
Sophie Haraux
Chouaib Boukaftane
Jerzy Kuczynski
Khalid Zahouily
Christian Decker
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MacDermid Graphics Solutions Europe SAS
Original Assignee
MacDermid Graphic Arts SAS
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Publication date
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Publication of EP1026004A1 publication Critical patent/EP1026004A1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41N—PRINTING PLATES OR FOILS; MATERIALS FOR SURFACES USED IN PRINTING MACHINES FOR PRINTING, INKING, DAMPING, OR THE LIKE; PREPARING SUCH SURFACES FOR USE AND CONSERVING THEM
    • B41N10/00—Blankets or like coverings; Coverings for wipers for intaglio printing
    • B41N10/02—Blanket structure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41N—PRINTING PLATES OR FOILS; MATERIALS FOR SURFACES USED IN PRINTING MACHINES FOR PRINTING, INKING, DAMPING, OR THE LIKE; PREPARING SUCH SURFACES FOR USE AND CONSERVING THEM
    • B41N2210/00—Location or type of the layers in multi-layer blankets or like coverings
    • B41N2210/02—Top layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41N—PRINTING PLATES OR FOILS; MATERIALS FOR SURFACES USED IN PRINTING MACHINES FOR PRINTING, INKING, DAMPING, OR THE LIKE; PREPARING SUCH SURFACES FOR USE AND CONSERVING THEM
    • B41N2210/00—Location or type of the layers in multi-layer blankets or like coverings
    • B41N2210/04—Intermediate layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41N—PRINTING PLATES OR FOILS; MATERIALS FOR SURFACES USED IN PRINTING MACHINES FOR PRINTING, INKING, DAMPING, OR THE LIKE; PREPARING SUCH SURFACES FOR USE AND CONSERVING THEM
    • B41N2210/00—Location or type of the layers in multi-layer blankets or like coverings
    • B41N2210/06—Backcoats; Back layers; Bottom layers
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10S428/909—Resilient layer, e.g. printer's blanket

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a blanket for a printing machine. with variable surface properties.
  • the blanket according to the invention is more particularly intended for machines making it possible to implement a indirect printing process, i.e. with an intermediate transfer element.
  • a process of the offset type, indirect heliography, or an indirect digital toner printing process solid or liquid we can in particular to quote the machines making it possible to put in uses a process of the offset type, indirect heliography, or an indirect digital toner printing process solid or liquid.
  • printing color images is generally obtained by overlapping at least four basic colors (cyan, magenta, yellow and black). These four basic colors are printed successively in remote printing groups. This distance between groups can generate differences for the path of the strip of paper to be printed, as well as deformations of this band. However, deviations of positioning of the different basic colors affect the quality of the printed image.
  • the printing cylinders are coated with a blanket which receives the ink carried by a offset plate, itself carried by a cylinder which has been previously covered with a film of ink and water.
  • the blanket cylinder prints on a strip of paper for example which is held by a back pressure cylinder.
  • the offset printing process is characterized by the presence of fountain water and the high viscosity inks.
  • the fountain water ensures segregation printing areas and non-printing areas and helps balance the offset printing process.
  • the presence of water can distort the paper or at least change its mechanical characteristics. This can also cause registry faults between the different printing groups.
  • the compressible layer may have a parabolic profile, the variation in thickness of this layer leading to a variation in compressibility.
  • the solutions proposed in the state of the take into account only characteristics mechanics of the printing process, such as pressure in the contact area between the two cylinders or the cylinder width.
  • the surface properties of the blankets have a significant influence on the quality of the transfer during the impression which depends in particular on the body of the impression, of the quality of the solid areas, of the loosening of the paper, transfer of fountain water to paper, paper debit or record keeping.
  • the surface properties of the blanket influence the cleavage of the ink film, in particular on leaving Nip more or less easing of the strip of paper.
  • Surface properties influence so on the overall deformation of the paper strip if these surface properties are variable in direction through.
  • a variation in the surface properties of the blanket can induce a variation in the amount of water of wetting transmitted to the paper and therefore modify the overall mechanical strain level of it during the printing process.
  • the invention therefore aims to overcome the drawbacks blankets known in the prior art, in offering a printing blanket to optimize print quality taking into account surface properties of the blanket.
  • the invention comprises the Features set out in claim 1.
  • said surface property of the blanket advantageously varies symmetrically with respect to transverse median plane of the blanket.
  • this surface property of the blanket varies, from an edge of the blanket to a plane transverse and crosswise, so discontinuous, in particular by discrete jumps, or in a continuous, in particular linearly or according to a profile of the parabolic, cubic or sigmoid type.
  • said blanket surface property can increase or decrease from one edge of the blanket to a transverse plane, in the cross direction.
  • the blanket when the blanket is mounted on the cylinder of the printing machine, its outer surface is substantially cylindrical.
  • the outer surface of the blanket when the blanket is mounted on the cylinder of the printing machine, has a concave profile or convex.
  • the compressible layer of the printing blanket according to the invention advantageously has a variable compressibility in transverse direction.
  • the total surface energy of the printing blanket according to the invention varies between two extreme limits each of between 5 and 50 mJ / m 2 and advantageously between 10 and 30 mJ / m 2 .
  • the polar surface energy of the printing blanket according to the invention varies between two extreme limits each of between 0 and 25 mJ / m 2 .
  • the polar component of surface energy measures a acid, basic or amphoteric character of the surface of the blanket as appropriate.
  • the average roughness of the printing blanket according to the invention preferably varies between two bounds extremes each between 0.3 ⁇ m and 2 ⁇ m.
  • the invention also relates to a method of making a printing blanket according to the invention.
  • This process can consist in photochemically grafting monomers, on the outer surface of a blanket comprising a lithographic, rectified or polished layer or molded, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, the density grafting being variable in the cross direction of the blanket, so that at least one property of blanket surface, including surface energy total or the polar surface energy of the blanket, varies crosswise, but either constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.
  • the method according to the invention can also consist of perform, on the outer surface of a blanket comprising a lithographic, rectified or polished layer or molded, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, a chemical treatment, ionization or by heating, especially of the flame type, this treatment being carried out in a variable manner according to the cross direction of the blanket, so that at least one property of blanket surface, including surface energy total blanket, varies according to direction across, but be constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket,
  • the method according to the invention can also consist of mechanical processing, for example sanding or machining, including laser, the outer surface of a blanket comprising a lithographic, rectified or polished layer, or molded, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, treatment being carried out in a variable manner depending on the direction through the blanket, so that at least one surface property of the blanket, in particular its roughness medium, varies crosswise, but either constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.
  • mechanical processing for example sanding or machining, including laser, the outer surface of a blanket comprising a lithographic, rectified or polished layer, or molded, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, treatment being carried out in a variable manner depending on the direction through the blanket, so that at least one surface property of the blanket, in particular its roughness medium, varies crosswise, but either constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.
  • the method according to the invention also consists in make a blanket comprising a layer lithographic, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, said lithographic layer being obtained by molding and the outer surface of the blanket with roughness mean variable in the transverse direction of the blanket but constant in the circumferential direction, obtained directly by molding.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view in elevation of a part of an offset type printing machine using a printing cylinder carrying a blanket according to the invention.
  • Figures 2 to 7 show different modes of variation of a blanket surface property, according to the cross direction.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a printing cylinder 1, on which a blanket is mounted 10 according to the invention.
  • This blanket has a layer rectified or polished, or even molded lithographic at least one reinforcement or support layer and at least one compressible layer. The detail of these different layers is not illustrated in Figure 1.
  • the lithographic layer of this blanket 10 is such that at least one surface property of the blanket varies on its outer surface, in the cross direction, that is to say in a direction perpendicular to the direction of scrolling of the paper 2 which is illustrated by the arrow F and parallel to the axis of rotation 11 of the cylinder 1.
  • Figure 1 also illustrates a plate cylinder offset 3 receiving fountain water and ink, as shown by the arrows G and H.
  • Cylinder 1 performs printing on sheet of paper 2 which is held by a back pressure cylinder 4 or a second printing cylinder identical to cylinder 1 bearing a blanket printing the back of the sheet of paper 2.
  • the surface properties which influence the quality of printing are especially the energy of total blanket area, the surface energy at polar character and the average roughness of the blanket.
  • a printing blanket necessarily has constant properties.
  • a blanket is conventionally made continuously then cut and manufacturing techniques do not therefore not allow to generate variations of surface properties in a specific direction.
  • Total surface energy and surface energy at the polar character of the blanket can in particular be modified to be variable in the cross direction of the blanket by grafting photochemically onto the surface outer of the blanket, non-stick monomers or oligomers, hydrophilic or hydrophobic.
  • This grafting process is carried out on the substrate constituting the outer surface of the blanket.
  • This substrate may be made of an elastomeric material to nitrile base which is ground and sanded or obtained by extrusion.
  • This substrate can also be produced in a hydrophobic material such as a polyolefin elastomer or a hydrophilic material, such as an elastomer based of carboxylated nitrile.
  • non-polar monomers such as as alkane, alkene or fluorinated monomers with, for example example, one or more acrylate functionalities or methacrylate.
  • the total surface energy of the blanket is lower or higher than in areas of the substrate not containing such monomers grafted, depending on the chemical nature of said monomers.
  • the blanket areas containing monomers based on grafted silicone have more total energy weak than the ungrafted areas.
  • these grafted silicone monomers have a non-stick or loosening power.
  • the cleavage of the ink film will take place easier.
  • Polar surface energy can also be modified according to the transverse direction of the blanket according the invention by grafting onto the substrate monomers which give it a hydrophilic character after grafting.
  • the grafting can also be carried out according to the method described in document EP-0 806 304.
  • These monomers are for example monomers comprising acid functions, alcohol or amide, such as acrylic acid or acid methacrylic.
  • the nature of the monomer or oligomers including for example acid, alcohol or amide functionalities, gives the grafted substrate an acidic, basic or still amphoteric variable in the cross direction of the blanket.
  • the photochemical grafting of a monomer on the substrate is produced, after coating with monomer on the substrate, by irradiation of the latter to across a mask with opaque parts and transparent.
  • the substrate can be irradiated using radiation high energy ultraviolet, or even using the visible light, an electron beam or even a X-ray.
  • the mask used in the process of grafting has a different optical density in the cross direction of the sleeve, or a distribution variable opaque and transparent parts, depending on what cross direction.
  • This distribution generates discrete area sizes having surface properties different from those of substrate, variable depending on the location on the surface blanket.
  • This distribution can also generate a variable spacing of discrete areas with surface properties different from those of the substrate, depending on the location on the blanket surface.
  • the grafting process that is the subject of document EP-0 806 304 can be implemented several times, successively on the same substrate, as this is moreover described in this document.
  • blanket surface including its surface energy total and its polar surface energy
  • variation in the properties of blanket surface can be obtained by other methods than that described in document EP-0 806 304.
  • Mention may in particular be made of a chemical treatment, a ionization treatment or flame treatment.
  • Ionization treatment or flame treatment of the substrate blanket both oxidize the surface substrate in the affected areas, and increase the surface energy of the blanket. This has in particular for consequence that the ink spreads more easily on the printing cylinder 1.
  • the average roughness of the exterior surface of the blanket 1 can be made variable according to the direction through the blanket by appropriately performing a final sanding or laser machining of the surface outside of the blanket.
  • a variation in the average roughness of the surface outer of the blanket in the cross direction can also be obtained directly by molding, when the blanket according to the invention is obtained with a mold having a appropriate surface finish.
  • a variation in the average roughness can also be obtained by a hot calendering type process.
  • each of Figures 2 to 7 is a diagram illustrating the variation of a surface property of the blanket (PSB on the ordinate), depending on the position of a point according to the transverse direction of the blanket or according to the width (L on the abscissa).
  • X corresponds to the width of the blanket.
  • the blanket according to the invention is not limited to this type of centered variation.
  • the surface property of the blanket may vary from one edge of the blanket to the other, discontinuously and for example by jumps discreet.
  • the surface property of the blanket increases from an edge of the blanket to the plane transverse central or median of the blanket then decreases to the other edge of the blanket.
  • the variation in blanket surface property can also be keep on going.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a variation in the property of blanket surface which follows a profile cubic
  • Figure 6 shows a variation of the surface property taking place according to a profile sigmoid.
  • Figure 7 defines a variation of a property blanket surface which is continuous from one edge of the blanket to the other, symmetrical with respect to the plane transverse median and which defines a parabolic profile.
  • This surface property therefore varies according to a profile "negative".
  • the total surface energy of the blanket preferably varies between two extreme limits each of between 5 and 50 mJ / m 2 and advantageously between 10 and 30 mJ / m 2 .
  • the polar surface energy of the blanket according to the invention preferably varies between two extreme limits each of between 0 and 25 mJ / m 2 .
  • the average roughness of the exterior surface of the blanket according to the invention preferably varies between two extreme limits each between 0.3 and 0.8 ⁇ m and between 0.8 and 2 ⁇ m, depending on the print quality which is desired.
  • the surface properties of the blankets are constants in the direction of paper travel, or direction circumferential.
  • the outer surface of the blanket according to the invention, mounted on the cylinder of the print can be substantially cylindrical.
  • this outer surface of the blanket, mounted on the cylinder of the printing machine can also have a particular geometric profile, such as concave or convex profile, as described in the document EP-0 659 585 to which one can refer.
  • the blanket according to the invention can have a or several variable surface properties depending on the cross direction, these variable surface properties being combined with a profile allowing in particular to avoid the appearance of possible creases or registry defects.
  • the blanket according to the invention can be used in any indirect printing process, like indirect heliography and digital printing indirect.
  • the blankets according to the invention can also take the form of varnishing plates or sleeves.
  • blanket covers both and indifferently blanket to be fixed in a cylinder throat printing, a blanket intended to be glued on the outer surface of a cylinder and a sleeve continuous printing.
  • the blanket is mounted or fixed on the cylinder printing by a tension system in the throat, by bonding or sleeving with any means known per se.

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  • Printing Plates And Materials Therefor (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne un blanchet pour machine à imprimer à propriétés de surface variables.The invention relates to a blanket for a printing machine. with variable surface properties.

Le blanchet selon l'invention est plus particulièrement destiné aux machines permettant de mettre en oeuvre un procédé d'impression de façon indirecte, c'est-à-dire avec un élément de transfert intermédiaire. On peut notamment citer les machines permettant de mettre en oeuvre un procédé du type offset, héliographie indirecte, ou un procédé d'impression digitale indirect à toner solide ou liquide.The blanket according to the invention is more particularly intended for machines making it possible to implement a indirect printing process, i.e. with an intermediate transfer element. We can in particular to quote the machines making it possible to put in uses a process of the offset type, indirect heliography, or an indirect digital toner printing process solid or liquid.

Tout d'abord, l'impression d'images en couleur est généralement obtenue par une superposition d'au moins quatre couleurs de base (cyan, magenta, jaune et noir). Ces quatre couleurs de base sont imprimées successivement dans des groupes imprimants distants les uns des autres. Cette distance entre groupes peut générer des écarts pour le trajet de la bande de papier à imprimer, ainsi que des déformations de cette bande. Or, des écarts de positionnement des différentes couleurs de base affectent la qualité de l'image imprimée.First, printing color images is generally obtained by overlapping at least four basic colors (cyan, magenta, yellow and black). These four basic colors are printed successively in remote printing groups. This distance between groups can generate differences for the path of the strip of paper to be printed, as well as deformations of this band. However, deviations of positioning of the different basic colors affect the quality of the printed image.

Sur les rotatives servant à imprimer les journaux, apparaít le phénomène dit de "fan-out" qui se traduit par un élargissement du papier entre les différents groupes imprimants et donc, par une perte des registres pour les quadrichromies.On the presses used to print newspapers, appears the phenomenon known as "fan-out" which results in an enlargement of the paper between the different groups printers and therefore, through a loss of records for them four-color printing.

Sur les presses à manchons qui sont plus larges que les rotatives d'ancienne génération, on constate également des phénomènes d'élargissement ou de rétrécissement des dimensions effectivement imprimées par chaque groupe. Ces phénomènes ont pour conséquence une perte de registre latéral en bord de laize imprimée. On sleeve presses that are wider than the old-generation presses, we also see phenomena of widening or narrowing of dimensions actually printed by each group. These phenomena result in a loss of registry lateral at the edge of the printed width.

Ces défauts d'impression deviennent encore plus visibles avec une augmentation de la largeur de la machine à imprimer et de la vitesse d'impression.These printing faults become even more visible with an increase in the width of the print and print speed.

On peut également citer des inconvénients plus particulièrement liés au procédé d'impression offset.We can also cite more disadvantages particularly related to the offset printing process.

Dans l'impression offset, les cylindres d'impression sont revêtus d'un blanchet qui reçoit l'encre portée par une plaque offset, elle-même portée par un cylindre qui a été précédemment recouvert d'un film d'encre et d'eau. Le cylindre porte-blanchet réalise l'impression sur une bande de papier par exemple qui est maintenue par un cylindre de contre-pression.In offset printing, the printing cylinders are coated with a blanket which receives the ink carried by a offset plate, itself carried by a cylinder which has been previously covered with a film of ink and water. The blanket cylinder prints on a strip of paper for example which is held by a back pressure cylinder.

Ainsi, le procédé d'impression offset est caractérisé par la présence d'eau de mouillage et par la viscosité élevée des encres.Thus, the offset printing process is characterized by the presence of fountain water and the high viscosity inks.

En sortie d'impression, c'est-à-dire au niveau de la zone de contact entre le cylindre porte-blanchet et le cylindre, de contre-pression (zone communément appelée "nip d'impression"), sont générés des efforts de clivage élevés qui provoquent un mauvais relâchement du papier en raison d'une trop grande adhérence relative entre l'encre et la surface du blanchet.At print output, i.e. at the level of the zone of contact between the blanket cylinder and the cylinder, back pressure (commonly known area "print nip"), cleavage forces are generated which cause poor paper slackening in due to too much relative adhesion between the ink and the surface of the blanket.

Cette traction exercée sur le papier a tendance, sur les machines larges, à le déformer en forme de "chapeau de gendarme", ce qui provoque des défauts de registre.This traction exerted on the paper tends, on the wide machines, to deform it in the shape of a "hat gendarme ", which causes registry faults.

De plus, du fait de cette adhérence relativement importante, des fibres peuvent se détacher de la bande de papier et venir s'accumuler sur le blanchet lui-même, ce qui est de nature à détériorer progressivement la qualité d'impression. In addition, due to this relatively adhesion important, fibers can detach from the strip of paper and come accumulate on the blanket itself, this which is likely to gradually deteriorate the quality printing.

Par ailleurs, l'eau de mouillage assure une ségrégation des zones imprimantes et des zones non imprimantes et permet d'équilibrer le procédé d'impression offset. Cependant, la présence d'eau peut déformer le papier ou au moins changer ses caractéristiques mécaniques. Ceci peut également entraíner des défauts de registre entre les différents groupes imprimants.Furthermore, the fountain water ensures segregation printing areas and non-printing areas and helps balance the offset printing process. However, the presence of water can distort the paper or at least change its mechanical characteristics. This can also cause registry faults between the different printing groups.

Des solutions ont déjà été proposées dans l'état de la technique pour résoudre ces problèmes.Solutions have already been proposed in the state of the technique to resolve these issues.

On peut notamment citer le document EP-0 659 585 qui décrit un blanchet présentant, de par sa construction, un profil concave ou convexe. Ce profil est destiné à éliminer des écarts de vitesses de défilement superficielles sur le sens travers de la bande de papier, pour ainsi éviter l'apparition de plis éventuels.Mention may in particular be made of document EP-0 659 585 which describes a blanket having, by its construction, a concave or convex profile. This profile is intended for eliminate differences in frame rates superficial on the cross direction of the paper strip, to avoid the appearance of any folds.

Cependant, un tel blanchet conduit à l'apparition de pressions différentes selon le sens de la largeur du blanchet, ce qui peut causer des défauts d'impression, notamment une diminution des valeurs de contraste d'impression.However, such a blanket leads to the appearance of different pressures depending on the width direction of the blanket, which can cause printing defects, including a decrease in contrast values printing.

On peut également citer le document WO 95/23706 qui décrit des blanchets à couche compressible présentant une région centrale d'une plus grande compressibilité que les parties périphériques.Mention may also be made of document WO 95/23706 which describes blankets with a compressible layer having a central region of greater compressibility than peripheral parts.

Pour cela, la couche compressible peut présenter un profil parabolique, la variation d'épaisseur de cette couche conduisant à une variation de la compressibilité.For this, the compressible layer may have a parabolic profile, the variation in thickness of this layer leading to a variation in compressibility.

Un tel blanchet a pour objet d'assurer une meilleure tenue des registres. The purpose of such a blanket is to ensure better record keeping.

Cependant, on a pu constater que les manchons proposés dans l'état de la technique ne permettaient pas de résoudre complètement le problème des défauts d'impression.However, we have seen that the proposed sleeves in the state of the art did not allow completely solve the problem of faults printing.

En effet, les solutions proposées dans l'état de la technique ne prennent en compte que des caractéristiques mécaniques du procédé d'impression, comme la pression dans la zone de contact entre les deux cylindres ou la largeur du cylindre.Indeed, the solutions proposed in the state of the take into account only characteristics mechanics of the printing process, such as pressure in the contact area between the two cylinders or the cylinder width.

Or, une déformation non mesurable pratiquement, par exemple une déformation de 0,005 % du papier sur une laize de 2000 mm suffit à créer un défaut de registre latéral de 50 µm aux extrémités. Ce défaut est rédhibitoire en termes de qualité.However, a deformation that is practically not measurable, by example a 0.005% deformation of the paper on a 2000 mm width is enough to create a register defect lateral of 50 µm at the ends. This defect is unacceptable in terms of quality.

Dans le cadre de l'invention, il a été mis en évidence que les propriétés de surface des blanchets ont une influence importante sur la qualité du transfert lors de l'impression qui dépend notamment de la dépouille de l'impression, de la qualité des aplats, du relâchement du papier, du transfert de l'eau de mouillage au papier, du débit du papier ou encore de la tenue des registres.In the context of the invention, it has been highlighted that the surface properties of the blankets have a significant influence on the quality of the transfer during the impression which depends in particular on the body of the impression, of the quality of the solid areas, of the loosening of the paper, transfer of fountain water to paper, paper debit or record keeping.

Ainsi, les propriétés de surface du blanchet influent sur le clivage du film d'encre notamment en sortie de Nip d'impression en facilitant plus ou moins le relâchement de la bande de papier. Les propriétés de surface influent donc sur la déformation d'ensemble de la bande de papier si ces propriétés de surface sont variables en sens travers.Thus, the surface properties of the blanket influence the cleavage of the ink film, in particular on leaving Nip more or less easing of the strip of paper. Surface properties influence so on the overall deformation of the paper strip if these surface properties are variable in direction through.

De même, une variation des propriétés de surface du blanchet peut induire une variation de la quantité d'eau de mouillage transmise au papier et donc modifier le niveau de déformation mécanique d'ensemble de celui-ci lors du processus d'impression.Likewise, a variation in the surface properties of the blanket can induce a variation in the amount of water of wetting transmitted to the paper and therefore modify the overall mechanical strain level of it during the printing process.

L'invention a donc pour but de pallier les inconvénients des blanchets connus dans l'état de la technique, en proposant un blanchet d'impression permettant d'optimiser la qualité de l'impression en tenant compte des propriétés de surface du blanchet.The invention therefore aims to overcome the drawbacks blankets known in the prior art, in offering a printing blanket to optimize print quality taking into account surface properties of the blanket.

Pour atteindre ce but, l'invention comporte les caractéristiques énoncées dans la revendication 1.To achieve this object, the invention comprises the Features set out in claim 1.

Par le document EP 0806304, il est connu de faire varier au moins une propriété de surface du blanchet, mais à la fois dans le sens travers et dans le sens circonférenciel.By document EP 0806304, it is known to vary at least one surface property of the blanket, but both in the cross direction and in the circumferential sense.

Par ailleurs, ladite propriété de surface du blanchet varie avantageusement de façon symétrique par rapport au plan transversal médian du blanchet. Furthermore, said surface property of the blanket advantageously varies symmetrically with respect to transverse median plane of the blanket.

A titre d'exemple, cette propriété de surface du blanchet varie, depuis un bord du blanchet jusqu'à un plan transversal et selon le sens travers, de façon discontinue, notamment par sauts discrets, ou de façon continue, notamment linéairement ou selon un profil du type parabolique, cubique ou sigmoïde.As an example, this surface property of the blanket varies, from an edge of the blanket to a plane transverse and crosswise, so discontinuous, in particular by discrete jumps, or in a continuous, in particular linearly or according to a profile of the parabolic, cubic or sigmoid type.

De plus, ladite propriété de surface du blanchet peut croítre ou décroítre depuis un bord du blanchet jusqu'à un plan transversal, selon le sens travers.In addition, said blanket surface property can increase or decrease from one edge of the blanket to a transverse plane, in the cross direction.

Dans un mode de réalisation du blanchet d'impression selon l'invention, lorsque le blanchet est monté sur le cylindre de la machine à imprimer, sa surface extérieure est sensiblement cylindrique.In one embodiment of the printing blanket according to the invention, when the blanket is mounted on the cylinder of the printing machine, its outer surface is substantially cylindrical.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation, lorsque le blanchet est monté sur le cylindre de la machine à imprimer, la surface extérieure du blanchet présente un profil concave ou convexe.In another embodiment, when the blanket is mounted on the cylinder of the printing machine, the outer surface of the blanket has a concave profile or convex.

De plus, la couche compressible du blanchet d'impression selon l'invention présente avantageusement une compressibilité variable en sens travers.In addition, the compressible layer of the printing blanket according to the invention advantageously has a variable compressibility in transverse direction.

De façon préférée, l'énergie de surface totale du blanchet d'impression selon l'invention varie entre deux bornes extrêmes comprises chacune entre 5 et 50 mJ/m2 et avantageusement entre 10 et 30 mJ/m2.Preferably, the total surface energy of the printing blanket according to the invention varies between two extreme limits each of between 5 and 50 mJ / m 2 and advantageously between 10 and 30 mJ / m 2 .

Egalement de façon préférée, l'énergie de surface à caractère polaire du blanchet d'impression selon l'invention varie entre deux bornes extrêmes comprises chacune entre 0 et 25 mJ/m2. Also preferably, the polar surface energy of the printing blanket according to the invention varies between two extreme limits each of between 0 and 25 mJ / m 2 .

La composante polaire de l'énergie de surface mesure un caractère acide, basique ou amphotère de la surface du blanchet selon le cas.The polar component of surface energy measures a acid, basic or amphoteric character of the surface of the blanket as appropriate.

Enfin, la rugosité moyenne du blanchet d'impression selon l'invention varie de préférence entre deux bornes extrêmes comprises chacune entre 0,3 µm et 2 µm.Finally, the average roughness of the printing blanket according to the invention preferably varies between two bounds extremes each between 0.3 µm and 2 µm.

L'invention concerne également un procédé de réalisation d'un blanchet d'impression selon l'invention.The invention also relates to a method of making a printing blanket according to the invention.

Ce procédé peut consister à greffer photochimiquement des monomères, sur la surface extérieure d'un blanchet comprenant une couche lithographique, rectifiée ou polie ou encore moulée, au moins une couche de renfort ou de support et au moins une couche compressible, la densité du greffage étant variable selon le sens travers du blanchet, de telle sorte qu'au moins une propriété de surface du blanchet, notamment l'énergie de surface totale ou l'énergie de surface à caractère polaire du blanchet, varie dans le sens travers, mais soit constante dans le sens circonférentiel du blanchet.This process can consist in photochemically grafting monomers, on the outer surface of a blanket comprising a lithographic, rectified or polished layer or molded, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, the density grafting being variable in the cross direction of the blanket, so that at least one property of blanket surface, including surface energy total or the polar surface energy of the blanket, varies crosswise, but either constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.

Le procédé selon l'invention peut également consister à effectuer, sur la surface extérieure d'un blanchet comprenant une couche lithographique, rectifiée ou polie ou encore moulée, au moins une couche de renfort ou de support et au moins une couche compressible, un traitement chimique, d'ionisation ou encore par chauffage, notamment du type flammage, ce traitement étant effectué de façon variable selon le sens travers du blanchet, de telle sorte qu'au moins une propriété de surface du blanchet, notamment l'énergie de surface totale du blanchet, varie selon le sens travers, mais soit constante dans le sens circonférentiel du blanchet, The method according to the invention can also consist of perform, on the outer surface of a blanket comprising a lithographic, rectified or polished layer or molded, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, a chemical treatment, ionization or by heating, especially of the flame type, this treatment being carried out in a variable manner according to the cross direction of the blanket, so that at least one property of blanket surface, including surface energy total blanket, varies according to direction across, but be constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket,

Le procédé selon l'invention peut encore consister à traiter mécaniquement, par exemple poncer ou usiner, notamment au laser, la surface extérieure d'un blanchet comprenant une couche lithographique, rectifiée ou polie, ou encore moulée, au moins une couche de renfort ou de support et au moins une couche compressible, ce traitement étant réalisé de façon variable selon le sens travers du blanchet, de telle sorte qu'au moins une propriété de surface du blanchet, notamment sa rugosité moyenne, varie dans le sens travers, mais soit constante dans le sens circonférentiel du blanchet.The method according to the invention can also consist of mechanical processing, for example sanding or machining, including laser, the outer surface of a blanket comprising a lithographic, rectified or polished layer, or molded, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, treatment being carried out in a variable manner depending on the direction through the blanket, so that at least one surface property of the blanket, in particular its roughness medium, varies crosswise, but either constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.

Le procédé selon l'invention consiste également à réaliser un blanchet comprenant une couche lithographique, au moins une couche de renfort ou de support et au moins une couche compressible, ladite couche lithographique étant obtenue par moulage et la surface extérieure du blanchet présentant une rugosité moyenne variable dans le sens travers du blanchet mais constante dans le sens circonférentiel, obtenue directement par moulage.The method according to the invention also consists in make a blanket comprising a layer lithographic, at least one layer of reinforcement or support and at least one compressible layer, said lithographic layer being obtained by molding and the outer surface of the blanket with roughness mean variable in the transverse direction of the blanket but constant in the circumferential direction, obtained directly by molding.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres buts, avantages et caractéristiques de celle-ci apparaítront plus clairement à la lecture de la description qui suit et qui sera notamment faite au regard des dessins annexés.The invention will be better understood and other aims, advantages and characteristics of it will appear more clearly on reading the description which follows and which will be made in particular with regard to the drawings attached.

La figure 1 est une vue schématique et en élévation d'une partie d'une machine à imprimer du type offset utilisant un cylindre d'impression portant un blanchet selon l'invention.Figure 1 is a schematic view in elevation of a part of an offset type printing machine using a printing cylinder carrying a blanket according to the invention.

Les figures 2 à 7 représentent différents modes de variation d'une propriété de surface du blanchet, selon le sens travers. Figures 2 to 7 show different modes of variation of a blanket surface property, according to the cross direction.

On se réfère tout d'abord à la figure 1 qui illustre un cylindre d'impression 1, sur lequel est monté un blanchet 10 selon l'invention. Ce blanchet comporte une couche lithographique rectifiée ou polie, ou encore moulée, au moins une couche de renfort ou de support et au moins une couche compressible. Le détail de ces différentes couches n'est pas illustré sur la figure 1.We first refer to Figure 1 which illustrates a printing cylinder 1, on which a blanket is mounted 10 according to the invention. This blanket has a layer rectified or polished, or even molded lithographic at least one reinforcement or support layer and at least one compressible layer. The detail of these different layers is not illustrated in Figure 1.

La couche lithographique de ce blanchet 10 est telle qu'au moins une propriété de surface du blanchet varie sur sa surface extérieure, selon le sens travers, c'est-à-dire dans une direction perpendiculaire au sens de défilement du papier 2 qui est illustré par la flèche F et parallèle à l'axe de rotation 11 du cylindre 1.The lithographic layer of this blanket 10 is such that at least one surface property of the blanket varies on its outer surface, in the cross direction, that is to say in a direction perpendicular to the direction of scrolling of the paper 2 which is illustrated by the arrow F and parallel to the axis of rotation 11 of the cylinder 1.

La figure 1 illustre également un cylindre porte-plaque offset 3 recevant de l'eau de mouillage et de l'encre, comme cela est matérialisé par les flèches G et H.Figure 1 also illustrates a plate cylinder offset 3 receiving fountain water and ink, as shown by the arrows G and H.

L'eau et l'encre sont transférées sur le cylindre d'impression 1 sous l'effet de la rotation. Le cylindre 1 réalise l'impression sur la feuille de papier 2 qui est maintenue par un cylindre 4 de contre-pression ou un deuxième cylindre d'impression identique au cylindre 1 portant un blanchet imprimant le verso de la feuille de papier 2.Water and ink are transferred to the cylinder 1 under the effect of rotation. Cylinder 1 performs printing on sheet of paper 2 which is held by a back pressure cylinder 4 or a second printing cylinder identical to cylinder 1 bearing a blanket printing the back of the sheet of paper 2.

Comme cela a été indiqué précédemment, il a été mis en évidence que les propriétés de surface du blanchet influent fortement sur le transfert de l'encre sur le cylindre d'impression ainsi que sur le clivage du film d'encre au niveau de la zone de contact entre le cylindre d'impression et le cylindre de contre-pression. Ces propriétés de surface influent également sur la quantité d'eau de mouillage nécessaire à la stabilité du procédé d'impression offset et sur la quantité d'eau transférée au papier dans cette zone de contact.As noted earlier, it has been implemented evidence that the surface properties of the blanket strongly influence the transfer of ink to the printing cylinder as well as on the cleavage of the film ink at the contact area between the cylinder and the back pressure cylinder. These surface properties also affect the amount fountain water necessary for the stability of the process offset printing and the amount of water transferred to paper in this contact area.

Les propriétés de surface qui ont une influence sur la qualité de l'impression sont notamment l'énergie de surface totale du blanchet, l'énergie de surface à caractère polaire et la rugosité moyenne du blanchet.The surface properties which influence the quality of printing are especially the energy of total blanket area, the surface energy at polar character and the average roughness of the blanket.

En fonction du type de machine et de l'application concernée, il est donc souhaitable de faire varier au moins une de ces propriétés de surface, selon le sens travers du blanchet, pour optimiser la qualité de l'impression.Depending on the type of machine and the application concerned, it is therefore desirable to vary the minus one of these surface properties, depending on the direction through the blanket, to optimize the quality of the impression.

Il est bien sûr possible de ne modifier qu'une seule propriété de surface, selon le sens travers du blanchet, ou encore de combiner des variations de plusieurs propriétés de surface, toujours en fonction de l'application envisagée.It is of course possible to modify only one surface property, in the transverse direction of the blanket, or to combine variations of several surface properties, always depending on the intended application.

A ce propos, il convient de noter que l'invention qui est basée sur une variation d'une ou plusieurs des propriétés de surface d'un blanchet d'impression, va à l'encontre des préjugés de l'homme du métier.In this regard, it should be noted that the invention which is based on a variation of one or more of the properties of a printing blanket, goes against prejudices of the skilled person.

En effet, pour celui-ci, un blanchet d'impression présente nécessairement des propriétés constantes. On rappelle qu'un blanchet est, de façon classique, fabriqué en continu puis coupé et les techniques de fabrication ne permettent donc pas de générer des variations de propriétés de surface dans une direction déterminée.Indeed, for this one, a printing blanket necessarily has constant properties. We recalls that a blanket is conventionally made continuously then cut and manufacturing techniques do not therefore not allow to generate variations of surface properties in a specific direction.

L'énergie de surface totale et l'énergie de surface à caractère polaire du blanchet peuvent notamment être modifiées pour être variables selon le sens travers du blanchet en greffant photochimiquement, sur la surface extérieure du blanchet, des monomères ou oligomères anti-adhérants, hydrophiles ou hydrophobes.Total surface energy and surface energy at the polar character of the blanket can in particular be modified to be variable in the cross direction of the blanket by grafting photochemically onto the surface outer of the blanket, non-stick monomers or oligomers, hydrophilic or hydrophobic.

Un tel procédé de greffage photochimique est notamment décrit dans le document EP-0 806 304 auquel on peut se référer.Such a photochemical grafting process is in particular described in document EP-0 806 304 which can be refer.

Ce procédé de greffage est mis en oeuvre sur le substrat constituant la surface extérieure du blanchet. Ce substrat peut être constitué en un matériau élastomère à base de nitrile qui est rectifié et poncé ou obtenu par extrusion. Ce substrat pourra également être réalisé en un matériau hydrophobe comme un élastomère polyoléfinique ou en un matériau hydrophile, comme un élastomère à base de nitrile carboxylé.This grafting process is carried out on the substrate constituting the outer surface of the blanket. This substrate may be made of an elastomeric material to nitrile base which is ground and sanded or obtained by extrusion. This substrate can also be produced in a hydrophobic material such as a polyolefin elastomer or a hydrophilic material, such as an elastomer based of carboxylated nitrile.

Par exemple, on peut faire varier l'énergie de surface totale du blanchet selon l'invention, selon le sens travers, en greffant sur sa surface extérieure des monomères qui donnent un caractère hydrophobe au substrat après greffage.For example, we can vary the surface energy total blanket according to the invention, according to the direction across, grafting on its outer surface monomers which give a hydrophobic character to the substrate after grafting.

On peut notamment citer des monomères non polaires, tels que des monomères d'alcane, d'alcène ou fluorés avec, par exemple, une ou des fonctionnalités acrylate ou méthacrylate.Mention may in particular be made of non-polar monomers, such as as alkane, alkene or fluorinated monomers with, for example example, one or more acrylate functionalities or methacrylate.

Dans les parties du blanchet selon l'invention où ces monomères sont greffés, l'énergie de surface totale du blanchet est plus faible ou plus élevée que dans les zones du substrat ne comportant pas de tels monomères greffés, selon la nature chimique desdits monomères.In the parts of the blanket according to the invention where these monomers are grafted, the total surface energy of the blanket is lower or higher than in areas of the substrate not containing such monomers grafted, depending on the chemical nature of said monomers.

Dans ces zones greffées, l'eau et l'encre présentes sur le blanchet seront relâchées plus facilement et le transfert de l'encre depuis le cylindre porte-blanchet 1 sur la feuille de papier 2 sera facilité.In these grafted areas, the water and ink present on the blanket will be released more easily and the ink transfer from the blanket cylinder 1 on sheet of paper 2 will be facilitated.

On peut également envisager de greffer des monomères à base de silicone sur le substrat, toujours en mettant en oeuvre le procédé décrit dans le document EP-0 806 304.It is also possible to envisage grafting monomers to silicone base on the substrate, always putting uses the process described in document EP-0 806 304.

Les zones du blanchet comportant des monomères à base de silicone greffés, présentent une énergie totale plus faible que les zones non greffées.The blanket areas containing monomers based on grafted silicone, have more total energy weak than the ungrafted areas.

Ainsi, dans ces zones greffées, le transfert de l'encre depuis le cylindre d'impression 1 sur la feuille de papier 2 est facilité.So in these grafted areas, the transfer of the ink from the printing cylinder 1 on the sheet of paper 2 is facilitated.

De surcroít, ces monomères à base de silicone greffés présentent un pouvoir anti-adhésif ou de relâchement. Ainsi, en sortie du papier 2 dans l'intervalle entre les cylindres 1 et 4, le clivage du film d'encre s'effectuera plus facilement.In addition, these grafted silicone monomers have a non-stick or loosening power. Thus, at the output of the paper 2 in the interval between the cylinders 1 and 4, the cleavage of the ink film will take place easier.

L'énergie de surface à caractère polaire peut également être modifiée selon le sens travers du blanchet selon l'invention en greffant sur le substrat des monomères qui lui donnent un caractère hydrophile après greffage.Polar surface energy can also be modified according to the transverse direction of the blanket according the invention by grafting onto the substrate monomers which give it a hydrophilic character after grafting.

Le greffage peut également être réalisé selon le procédé décrit dans le document EP-0 806 304. Ces monomères sont par exemple des monomères comprenant des fonctions acide, alcool ou amide, tels que de l'acide acrylique ou l'acide méthacrylique.The grafting can also be carried out according to the method described in document EP-0 806 304. These monomers are for example monomers comprising acid functions, alcohol or amide, such as acrylic acid or acid methacrylic.

Le greffage de ces monomères permet d'attirer de l'eau depuis le cylindre 3 sur le cylindre d'impression 1 et de rétablir l'équilibre entre l'eau et l'encre. The grafting of these monomers makes it possible to attract water from cylinder 3 on printing cylinder 1 and from restore the balance between water and ink.

La nature du ou des monomères ou oligomères, comprenant par exemple des fonctionnalités acide, alcool ou amide, confère au substrat greffé un caractère acide, basique ou encore amphotère variable dans le sens travers du blanchet.The nature of the monomer or oligomers, including for example acid, alcohol or amide functionalities, gives the grafted substrate an acidic, basic or still amphoteric variable in the cross direction of the blanket.

De manière générale, le greffage photochimique d'un monomère sur le substrat est réalisé, après enduction du monomère sur le substrat, par irradiation de celui-ci à travers d'un masque avec des parties opaques et transparentes.In general, the photochemical grafting of a monomer on the substrate is produced, after coating with monomer on the substrate, by irradiation of the latter to across a mask with opaque parts and transparent.

Le substrat peut être irradié à l'aide d'un rayonnement ultraviolet haute énergie, ou encore à l'aide de la lumière visible, d'un faisceau d'électrons ou même d'un rayonnement X.The substrate can be irradiated using radiation high energy ultraviolet, or even using the visible light, an electron beam or even a X-ray.

Par ailleurs, pour obtenir une variation appropriée selon le sens travers du blanchet, d'une propriété de surface de celui-ci, le masque utilisé dans le procédé de greffage présente une densité optique différente dans le sens travers du manchon, ou encore une répartition variable des parties opaques et transparentes, selon ce sens travers.Furthermore, to obtain an appropriate variation according to the cross direction of the blanket, of a surface property of it, the mask used in the process of grafting has a different optical density in the cross direction of the sleeve, or a distribution variable opaque and transparent parts, depending on what cross direction.

Cette répartition génère des tailles de zones discrètes ayant des propriétés de surface différentes de celles du substrat, variables selon la localisation sur la surface du blanchet. Cette répartition peut également générer un espacement variable des zones discrètes ayant des propriétés de surface différentes de celles du substrat, selon la localisation sur la surface du blanchet.This distribution generates discrete area sizes having surface properties different from those of substrate, variable depending on the location on the surface blanket. This distribution can also generate a variable spacing of discrete areas with surface properties different from those of the substrate, depending on the location on the blanket surface.

De façon à faire varier plusieurs propriétés de surface du blanchet, et notamment à la fois l'énergie de surface totale et l'énergie de surface à caractère polaire du blanchet, le procédé de greffage qui fait l'objet du document EP-0 806 304 peut être mis en oeuvre plusieurs fois, de façon successive sur le même substrat, comme cela est d'ailleurs décrit dans ce document.In order to vary several surface properties blanket, including both surface energy total and the polar surface energy of the blanket, the grafting process that is the subject of document EP-0 806 304 can be implemented several times, successively on the same substrate, as this is moreover described in this document.

On peut encore noter que la variation des propriétés de surface du blanchet, notamment son énergie de surface totale et son énergie de surface à caractère polaire, peut être obtenue par d'autres procédés que celui décrit dans le document EP-0 806 304.It can also be noted that the variation in the properties of blanket surface, including its surface energy total and its polar surface energy, can be obtained by other methods than that described in document EP-0 806 304.

On peut notamment citer un traitement chimique, un traitement d'ionisation ou un flammage.Mention may in particular be made of a chemical treatment, a ionization treatment or flame treatment.

Un traitement d'ionisation ou un flammage du substrat du blanchet ont tous les deux pour effet d'oxyder la surface du substrat dans les zones concernées, et d'augmenter l'énergie de surface du blanchet. Ceci a notamment pour conséquence que l'encre s'étale plus facilement sur le cylindre d'impression 1.Ionization treatment or flame treatment of the substrate blanket both oxidize the surface substrate in the affected areas, and increase the surface energy of the blanket. This has in particular for consequence that the ink spreads more easily on the printing cylinder 1.

On peut également obtenir des variations de propriétés de surface du blanchet selon le sens travers, et notamment une variation de la rugosité moyenne, par des traitements mécaniques.We can also obtain variations in properties of blanket surface in the cross direction, and in particular a variation of the average roughness, by treatments mechanical.

Ainsi, la rugosité moyenne de la surface extérieure du blanchet 1 peut être rendue variable selon le sens travers du blanchet en réalisant de manière appropriée un ponçage final ou un usinage au laser de la surface extérieure du blanchet.Thus, the average roughness of the exterior surface of the blanket 1 can be made variable according to the direction through the blanket by appropriately performing a final sanding or laser machining of the surface outside of the blanket.

Une variation de la rugosité moyenne de la surface extérieure du blanchet selon le sens travers peut aussi être obtenue directement par moulage, lorsque le blanchet selon l'invention est obtenu avec un moule présentant un état de surface appropriée.A variation in the average roughness of the surface outer of the blanket in the cross direction can also be obtained directly by molding, when the blanket according to the invention is obtained with a mold having a appropriate surface finish.

Une variation de la rugosité moyenne peut également être obtenue par un procédé de type calandrage à chaud.A variation in the average roughness can also be obtained by a hot calendering type process.

Dans les zones du blanchet présentant une rugosité plus élevée que les autres, l'accrochage de l'eau sur le blanchet est facilité, même si le substrat est hydrophobe.In areas of the blanket with more roughness higher than the others, the attachment of water to the blanket is facilitated, even if the substrate is hydrophobic.

Par ailleurs, dans ces mêmes zones, un film épais d'eau et d'encre a tendance à se créer, ce qui facilite le clivage des films d'eau et d'encre et contribue donc à la qualité de l'impression sur la feuille de papier 2.In addition, in these same areas, a thick film of water and ink tends to be created, which facilitates the cleavage of water and ink films and therefore contributes to the print quality on the sheet of paper 2.

Il est bien entendu que les procédés qui viennent d'être décrits peuvent être mis en oeuvre successivement sur le même substrat, de façon à combiner des variations de propriétés de surface différentes du blanchet.It is understood that the processes which have just been described can be implemented successively on the same substrate, so as to combine variations of different surface properties of the blanket.

On se réfère maintenant aux figures 2 à 7 qui illustrent des exemples de variation d'une propriété de surface du blanchet, selon le sens travers.We now refer to Figures 2 to 7 which illustrate examples of variation of a surface property of the blanket, crosswise.

Ainsi, chacune des figures 2 à 7 est un diagramme illustrant la variation d'une propriété de surface du blanchet (PSB en ordonnées), en fonction de la position d'un point selon le sens travers du blanchet ou selon la laize (L en abscisses). X correspond à la largeur du blanchet.Thus, each of Figures 2 to 7 is a diagram illustrating the variation of a surface property of the blanket (PSB on the ordinate), depending on the position of a point according to the transverse direction of the blanket or according to the width (L on the abscissa). X corresponds to the width of the blanket.

Sur toutes les figures 2 à 7, la variation de la propriété de surface du blanchet est symétrique par rapport au plan transversal médian du blanchet, plan qui est schématisé par la droite M. In all of Figures 2 to 7, the variation in blanket surface property is symmetrical by relation to the median transverse plane of the blanket, plane which is shown diagrammatically by the line M.

Cependant, le blanchet selon l'invention n'est pas limité à ce type de variation centrée.However, the blanket according to the invention is not limited to this type of centered variation.

Comme l'illustre la figure 2, la propriété de surface du blanchet peut varier depuis un bord du blanchet jusqu'à l'autre, de façon discontinue et par exemple par sauts discrets.As shown in Figure 2, the surface property of the blanket may vary from one edge of the blanket to the other, discontinuously and for example by jumps discreet.

Sur la figure 2, la propriété de surface du blanchet augmente depuis un bord du blanchet jusqu'au plan transversal central ou médian du blanchet puis décroít jusqu'à l'autre bord du blanchet.In Figure 2, the surface property of the blanket increases from an edge of the blanket to the plane transverse central or median of the blanket then decreases to the other edge of the blanket.

Cette variation de la propriété de surface du blanchet définit donc un profil dit "positif".This variation in the surface property of the blanket therefore defines a so-called "positive" profile.

Comme l'illustrent les figures 3 à 7, la variation de la propriété de surface du blanchet peut également être continue.As illustrated in Figures 3 to 7, the variation in blanket surface property can also be keep on going.

Sur la figure 3, cette variation est linéaire, et définit également un profil "positif".In Figure 3, this variation is linear, and defines also a "positive" profile.

Sur la figure 4, cette variation définit un profil parabolique qui est également "positif".In Figure 4, this variation defines a profile parabolic which is also "positive".

La figure 5 illustre une variation de la propriété de surface du blanchet qui s'effectue selon un profil cubique, tandis que la figure 6 montre une variation de la propriété de surface s'effectuant selon un profil sigmoïde. Ces deux profils sont également "positifs".Figure 5 illustrates a variation in the property of blanket surface which follows a profile cubic, while Figure 6 shows a variation of the surface property taking place according to a profile sigmoid. These two profiles are also "positive".

Enfin, la figure 7 définit une variation d'une propriété de surface du blanchet qui est continue depuis un bord du blanchet jusqu'à l'autre, symétrique par rapport au plan transversal médian et qui définit un profil parabolique.Finally, Figure 7 defines a variation of a property blanket surface which is continuous from one edge of the blanket to the other, symmetrical with respect to the plane transverse median and which defines a parabolic profile.

Cependant, contrairement à la figure 4, la propriété de surface diminue depuis un bord d'extrémité du blanchet vers le plan transversal médian et augmente depuis ce plan vers l'autre bord d'extrémité du blanchet.However, unlike Figure 4, the property of surface decreases from an end edge of the blanket towards the median transverse plane and increases from this plane towards the other end edge of the blanket.

Cette propriété de surface varie donc selon un profil "négatif".This surface property therefore varies according to a profile "negative".

Il est bien entendu que les exemples de variation de la propriété de surface qui ont été décrits en référence aux figures 2 à 6, pourraient également définir un profil négatif.It is understood that the examples of variation of the surface property which have been described with reference to Figures 2 to 6, could also define a profile negative.

Comme indiqué précédemment, les propriétés de surface du blanchet que l'on fait varier et leur profil de variation sont choisies en fonction des applications envisagées.As previously mentioned, the surface properties of blanket that we vary and their variation profile are chosen according to the envisaged applications.

Cependant, ces variations doivent être effectuées dans certaines limites.However, these variations should be made in certain limits.

En particulier, l'énergie de surface totale du blanchet varie, de préférence, entre deux bornes extrêmes comprises chacune entre 5 et 50 mJ/m2 et avantageusement entre 10 et 30 mJ/m2.In particular, the total surface energy of the blanket preferably varies between two extreme limits each of between 5 and 50 mJ / m 2 and advantageously between 10 and 30 mJ / m 2 .

L'énergie de surface à caractère polaire du blanchet selon l'invention varie, de préférence, entre deux bornes extrêmes comprises chacune entre 0 et 25 mJ/m2.The polar surface energy of the blanket according to the invention preferably varies between two extreme limits each of between 0 and 25 mJ / m 2 .

Enfin, la rugosité moyenne de la surface extérieure du blanchet selon l'invention varie, de préférence, entre deux bornes extrêmes comprises chacune entre 0,3 et 0,8 µm et entre 0,8 et 2 µm, selon la qualité de l'impression qui est souhaitée.Finally, the average roughness of the exterior surface of the blanket according to the invention preferably varies between two extreme limits each between 0.3 and 0.8 µm and between 0.8 and 2 µm, depending on the print quality which is desired.

Comme indiqué précédemment, on peut faire varier une ou plusieurs propriétés de surface du blanchet selon le sens travers, entre deux bornes extrêmes prédéfinies, en utilisant par exemple les profils de variation qui ont été décrits ci-dessus en référence aux figures 2 à 7.As indicated above, you can vary one or several surface properties of the blanket depending on the direction cross, between two predefined extreme limits, in using for example variation profiles which have have been described above with reference to FIGS. 2 to 7.

Selon l'invention, les propriétés de surface des blanchets sont constantes dans le sens de défilement du papier, ou sens circonférentiel.According to the invention, the surface properties of the blankets are constants in the direction of paper travel, or direction circumferential.

Par ailleurs, la surface extérieure du blanchet selon l'invention, monté sur le cylindre de la machine à imprimer, peut être sensiblement cylindrique.In addition, the outer surface of the blanket according to the invention, mounted on the cylinder of the print, can be substantially cylindrical.

Cependant, cette surface extérieure du blanchet, monté sur le cylindre de la machine à imprimer, peut également présenter un profil géométrique particulier, tel qu'un profil concave ou convexe, comme cela est décrit dans le document EP-0 659 585 auquel on peut se référer.However, this outer surface of the blanket, mounted on the cylinder of the printing machine, can also have a particular geometric profile, such as concave or convex profile, as described in the document EP-0 659 585 to which one can refer.

Ainsi, le blanchet selon l'invention peut présenter une ou plusieurs propriétés de surface variables selon le sens travers, ces propriétés de surface variables étant combinées avec un profil permettant notamment d'éviter l'apparition de plis éventuels ou défauts de registre.Thus, the blanket according to the invention can have a or several variable surface properties depending on the cross direction, these variable surface properties being combined with a profile allowing in particular to avoid the appearance of possible creases or registry defects.

On peut également envisager un blanchet selon l'invention comprenant une couche compressible dont la compressibilité est variable en sens travers, comme cela est décrit dans le document WO 95/23706, auquel on peut se référer. One can also envisage a blanket according to the invention comprising a compressible layer, the compressibility is variable in the cross direction, like this is described in document WO 95/23706, which can be refer.

La description qui précède a essentiellement été faite en relation avec un procédé d'impression offset. Comme cela a déjà été indiqué, le blanchet selon l'invention peut être utilisé dans tout procédé d'impression indirect, comme l'héliographie indirecte et l'impression digitale indirecte.The foregoing description has essentially been made in relationship with an offset printing process. Like this has already been indicated, the blanket according to the invention can be used in any indirect printing process, like indirect heliography and digital printing indirect.

Les blanchets selon l'invention peuvent également prendre la forme de plaques ou de manchons de vernissage.The blankets according to the invention can also take the form of varnishing plates or sleeves.

Enfin, dans toute la description, on a fait référence à un blanchet d'impression. Il est bien entendu que le terme blanchet couvre à la fois et indifféremment un blanchet destiné à être fixé dans un cylindre d'impression à gorge, un blanchet destiné à être collé sur la surface extérieure d'un cylindre et un manchon d'impression continu.Finally, throughout the description, reference has been made to a printing blanket. It is understood that the blanket term covers both and indifferently blanket to be fixed in a cylinder throat printing, a blanket intended to be glued on the outer surface of a cylinder and a sleeve continuous printing.

Le blanchet est monté ou fixé sur le cylindre d'impression par un système de tension dans la gorge, par collage ou par manchonnage avec tout moyen connu en soi.The blanket is mounted or fixed on the cylinder printing by a tension system in the throat, by bonding or sleeving with any means known per se.

L'invention n'est pas limitée aux exemples de réalisation qui ont été décrits, elle comprend au contraire tous les équivalents techniques des moyens décrits ainsi que leurs combinaisons, si celles-ci entrent dans le cadre des revendications annexées.The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments which have been described, on the contrary it includes all the technical equivalents of the means described and their combinations, if these fall within the scope of appended claims.

Claims (14)

  1. Printing blanket for a printing machine cylinder, particularly of the offset type, comprising a lithographic layer that is straightened or polished, or even cast, at least one reinforcing or support layer and at least one compressible layer, wherein at least one surface property of the blanket surface, in particular the total surface energy of the blanket, the surface energy in the nature of polar energy or the average roughness of the blanket varies on the outer surface of the blanket, in the transverse direction, whilst this surface property of the blanket is constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.
  2. Blanket according to Claim 1, characterised in that said surface of the blanket varies symmetrically in relation to the median transversal plane of the blanket.
  3. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 2, characterised in that said surface property of the blanket varies discontinuously from one edge of the blanket to a transversal plane, in the transverse direction, particularly in discrete jumps, and varies continuously, in particular linearly or along a profile of the parabolic, cubic or sigmoid type.
  4. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 3, characterised in that said surface property of the blanket increases or decreases from one edge of the blanket to a transversal plane, in the transverse direction.
  5. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that, when mounted on the printing machine cylinder, its outer surface is essentially cylindrical.
  6. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that, when mounted on the printing machine cylinder, the outer surface of the blanket exhibits a concave or convex profile.
  7. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the compressible layer of the blanket exhibits a variable compressibility in the transverse direction.
  8. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the total surface energy of the printing blanket according to the invention varies between two extreme limits, each ranging from 5 to 50 mJ/m2, preferably from 10 to 30 mJ/m2.
  9. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the surface of energy of the blanket that is polar in nature varies between two extreme limits each ranging from 0 to 25 mJ/m2.
  10. Blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the average roughness of the blanket varies between two extreme limits each ranging from 0.3 to 2 µm.
  11. Method of producing a blanket according to any of Claims to 10, characterised in that it consists in grafting monomers photochemically onto the outer surface of a blanket, comprising a lithographic layer that is straightened or polished, or even cast, at least one reinforcing or support layer, and at least one compressible layer, wherein the grafting density varies in the transverse direction of the blanket so that at least one surface property of the blanket, in particular the total surface energy or the surface energy of the blanket that is polar in nature, varies in the transverse direction but is constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.
  12. Method of producing a printing blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 10, characterised in that it consists in carrying out on the outer surface of a blanket, comprising a lithographic layer that is straightened or polished, or even cast, at least one reinforcing or support layer, and at least one compressible layer, a chemical ionisation or even heat treatment, particularly of the flaming type, wherein this treatment is carried out in a variable manner in the transverse direction of the blanket so that at least one surface property of the blanket, in particular the total surface energy of the blanket, varies in the transverse direction but is constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.
  13. Method of producing a blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 10, characterised in that it consists in treating mechanically, for example in punching or machining, particularly with a laser, the outer surface of a blanket, comprising a lithographic layer that is straightened or polished, or even cast, at least one reinforcing or support layer, and at least one compressible layer, wherein his treatment is carried out in a variable manner in the transverse direction of the blanket so that at least one surface property of the blanket, in particular its average roughness, varies in the transverse direction but is constant in the circumferential direction of the blanket.
  14. Method of producing a blanket according to any of Claims 1 to 10, characterised in that it consists in producing a blanket comprising a lithographic layer that is straightened or polished, or even cast, at least one reinforcing or support layer, and at least one compressible layer, wherein a lithographic layer is obtained by casting and the outer surface of the blanket exhibits an average roughness that varies in the transverse direction of the blanket but is constant in the circumferential direction, this roughness being obtained directly by casting.
EP00400293A 1999-02-04 2000-02-03 Blanket having variable surface properties for a printing machine Expired - Lifetime EP1026004B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9901309 1999-02-04
FR9901309A FR2789347B1 (en) 1999-02-04 1999-02-04 BLANKET WITH VARIABLE SURFACE PROPERTIES FOR PRINTING MACHINE

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EP1026004A1 EP1026004A1 (en) 2000-08-09
EP1026004B1 true EP1026004B1 (en) 2004-05-06

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EP (1) EP1026004B1 (en)
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1026004A1 (en) 2000-08-09
US20030150346A1 (en) 2003-08-14
FR2789347B1 (en) 2001-04-06
US6651559B2 (en) 2003-11-25
DE60010354D1 (en) 2004-06-09
DE60010354T2 (en) 2005-03-24
FR2789347A1 (en) 2000-08-11

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