WO2019065051A1

WO2019065051A1 - Processing equipment for photosensitive planographic printing plate and method for processing photosensitive planographic printing plate

Info

Publication number: WO2019065051A1
Application number: PCT/JP2018/031796
Authority: WO
Inventors: 年宏渡辺; 尚志佐藤
Original assignee: 富士フイルム株式会社
Priority date: 2017-09-29
Filing date: 2018-08-28
Publication date: 2019-04-04

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide processing equipment for a photosensitive planographic printing plate and a method for processing a photosensitive planographic printing plate with which it is possible to efficiently use a developer and improve the surface quality of a processed photosensitive planographic printing plate. Provided is processing equipment 1 for a photosensitive planographic printing plate that processes a photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 carrying image information, wherein the processing equipment 1: comprises a coating unit 3 for applying a developer to an image information carrying surface 2a of the photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 being conveyed, and a liquid supply unit 4 that supplies a developer to the coating unit 3 during processing when the photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 passes through the coating unit 3 and supplies a moisturizing liquid to the coating unit 3 when there is no processing; and keeps the coating unit 3 moistened.

Description

Photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus and photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method

The present invention relates to a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus and a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method.

As a method of supplying a developer to the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate, a spray method of spraying the developer onto the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate, a photosensitive lithographic plate in a developer tank storing the developer. A dip method in which a photosensitive lithographic printing plate is immersed in a developer by conveying the printing plate, and an amount of the developer necessary for developing the photosensitive lithographic printing plate is applied to the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate Metering methods are known.

In the spray method, in general, a developer is repeatedly used, but the developer is deteriorated by components eluted from the photosensitive layer of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate into the developer. In addition, when the developer is alkaline, the developer is also deteriorated by being exposed to carbon dioxide gas in the air. In the dip method, the amount of the developing solution used is large because the developing tank is filled with the developing solution, and the developing solution is deteriorated when the number of photosensitive lithographic printing plates to be immersed is increased. Also, although it is less severe than the spray method, the developer is also deteriorated by exposure to carbon dioxide gas in the air.

There is known a method of maintaining the activity of the developing solution by replenishing the developing solution as needed against the deterioration of the developing solution in the spray method and the dip method (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 4). However, the device is complicated and expensive. In addition, when the developer is periodically replaced, the usable developer may be discarded, resulting in waste of the developer.

On the other hand, in the metering method, the amount of fresh developer necessary for the development processing is supplied to the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate each time in the development processing, so the development is made in comparison with the spray method and dip method. The amount of liquid used is reduced, and the deterioration of the developer is eliminated. In addition, in the metering method, since a recovery device for repeatedly using the developer and a replenishment device for replenishing the developer in a timely manner are unnecessary, the device is simple and the cost is low. As such a developing method using a metering system, for example, a developing device described in Patent Document 5 is known.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 50-144502 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 54-62004 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 55-115039 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 56-12645 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2-52356

In the metering type developing processing apparatus, the developing solution is supplied to the coating unit for applying the developing solution to the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate each time the developing processing is performed. Conversely, during non-development processing, the developing solution is not supplied to the coating unit, and there is a risk that components in the developing solution remaining in the coating unit may precipitate due to the drying of the coating unit. And, when development is carried out in a state where the deposit adheres to the coating portion, there is a possibility that coating unevenness of the developer may occur, and the deposit on the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate May be attached, and there is a concern about development unevenness.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing capable of efficiently using a developer and enhancing the quality of the surface properties of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate subjected to development processing An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method.

A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus for developing a photosensitive lithographic printing plate carrying image information, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate being conveyed An application section for applying a developing solution to the image information bearing surface of the plate; and the developing solution supplied to the applying section during development processing in which the photosensitive lithographic printing plate passes through the application section; And a liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to the application unit.

The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method according to one aspect of the present invention is a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method for developing a photosensitive lithographic printing plate carrying image information, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate being conveyed The developing solution is supplied to the coating unit for coating the developing solution on the image information bearing surface of the plate during developing processing in which the photosensitive lithographic printing plate passes through the coating unit, and is supplied with a moisturizing liquid during non-development processing. Keep the application part wet.

According to the present invention, a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus and photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing capable of efficiently using a developer and capable of enhancing the quality of the surface properties of a photosensitive lithographic printing plate subjected to development processing We can provide a way.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a schematic diagram of an example of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus for describing embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram of an example of the application part of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus of FIG. 1, and a liquid supply part. It is a schematic diagram of the other example of the application part of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus of FIG. 1, and a liquid supply part. It is a schematic diagram of the other example of the application part of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus of FIG. 1, and a liquid supply part. It is a table | surface which shows the evaluation result of an Example and a comparative example.

FIG. 1 shows an example of a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus for describing an embodiment of the present invention.

The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 is for developing the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 carrying image information. The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus 1 comprises an application unit 3 for applying a developer to the image information bearing surface 2a of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2, a liquid supply unit 4 for supplying the developer to the application unit 3, and A cleaning unit 5 for cleaning the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 coated with the liquid, and a gumming unit 6 for desensitizing the cleaned photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 are provided.

The photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is conveyed in a substantially horizontal direction, passes through the coating unit 3, the washing unit 5, and the chewing unit 6 in this order, and is subjected to development processing. A detection unit 7 for detecting the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is provided on the upstream side of the coating unit 3 along the transport path of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2. The detection unit 7 is configured of an appropriate sensor. When the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is detected by the detection unit 7, the coating unit 3, the liquid supply unit 4, the washing unit 5, and the gumming unit 6 are operated by the control unit (not shown). Development processing is performed.

The photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 includes a photosensitive layer formed on, for example, an aluminum-based substrate. The photosensitive layer constitutes the image information bearing surface 2 a of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2. The photosensitive layer is classified into "positive type" and "negative type". In the "positive" photosensitive layer, the exposed area becomes soluble and the exposed area is removed during the development process. In the "negative type" photosensitive layer, the exposed area is cured and the non-exposed area is removed during the development process. In the development processing, an alkaline developer is typically used, and a portion showing relatively high solubility in the photosensitive layer is removed by the developer. The photosensitive layer remaining without being removed by the developer constitutes an image area, and the image area is oleophilic and receives printing ink. On the other hand, non-image areas are hydrophilic.

The alkaline developer is an alkaline aqueous solution, and can be appropriately selected from known alkaline aqueous solutions and used. For example, an alkaline aqueous solution containing an alkali silicate (silicate) or an alkaline aqueous solution containing a non-reducing sugar and a base can be mentioned, and in particular, an alkaline aqueous solution having a pH of 12.5 to 14.0. The alkali silicate exhibits alkalinity when dissolved in water, and examples thereof include alkali metal silicates such as sodium silicate, potassium silicate and lithium silicate; ammonium silicate and the like. These may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination. For the alkali developer containing an alkali silicate, the description in paragraphs [0270] to [0292] of JP-A-2003-1956 can be referred to.

Further, the alkaline developer may be one that does not substantially contain an alkali silicate (silicate). In the case where the developer contains a silicate, solid matter derived from SiO ₂ precipitates, and in the neutralization treatment when the waste liquid of the developer is treated, a problem such as gel formation due to SiO ₂ occurs. However, these disadvantages can be overcome if the developer does not contain a silicate.

Further, the alkaline developer may be a low pH alkaline developer having a pH of 11 or less, preferably 8.5 to 10.8, and as the low pH alkaline developer, JP 2011-170035 A, JP 2011 The developers described in -197562 and JP-A-2011-203652 can be suitably used. Since the developers described in these publications do not contain a silicate, precipitation of solids is suppressed as described above, and since the pH is low, a decrease in development activity due to carbon dioxide in the air occurs. hard.

In particular, the developer described in paragraphs [0088] to [0103] of JP 2011-170035 A is preferable, and the carbonate buffer described in paragraphs [0091] to [0092] is contained as a buffer material, and the interface As the activator, a developer containing an anionic surfactant (in particular, dialkyl sulfosuccinates, alkyl sulfate ester salts, alkyl naphthalene sulfonates) described in paragraph [0089] is more preferable. Further, a developer containing an amphoteric surfactant described in paragraphs [0103] to [0144] of JP-A-2011-197562 is also preferable.

The developer may also contain a metal salt of a Group 2 element of the Periodic Table of the Elements. The metal salt of the group 2 element can suppress the penetration of the developer into the photosensitive layer of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2. The Group 2 elements are beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium and barium, and these elements are used in the form of metal salts. Specifically, for example, halides, carbonates, sulfates, nitrates, phosphates, formates, acetates, propionates, maleates, lactates, levulinates, malonates, adipates Or fumaric acid salt. Among these, halides, carbonates, sulfates, nitrates, phosphates and acetates are preferred, and particularly preferred metal salts are calcium chloride and magnesium chloride. The amount of the metal salt of Group 2 element used is preferably 0.01 to 5% by mass, more preferably 0.05 to 1% by mass, based on the total amount of the developer composition. If the amount of the metal salt of the group 2 element exceeds 5% by mass, the developability of the exposed area is significantly reduced.

The liquid supply unit 4 includes a developer tank 10 storing a developer or an undiluted solution thereof, and a pump 11 delivering the developer stored in the developer tank 10 or an undiluted solution thereof. During development processing when the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is detected by the detection unit 7, the pump 11 is operated to apply a substantially unused developer in an amount necessary for the development processing of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 It is supplied to the part 3. Then, the developing solution is applied to the image information bearing surface 2 a of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 by the application unit 3. Specific configurations of the application unit 3 and the liquid supply unit 4 will be described later.

On the downstream side of the coating unit 3 along the transport path of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2, a squeeze roller 8 for squeezing a developer applied to the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is provided. After the excess developer remaining on the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is removed by the squeeze roller 8, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is conveyed to the washing unit 5. The developer removed by the squeeze roller 8 is collected in the waste liquid tank 12.

In this example, a brush 9 is provided between the application section 3 and the squeeze roller 8 for rubbing the image information bearing surface 2 a of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 to which the developer has been applied. The brush 9 is, for example, in the form of a roller in which brush bristles are planted on the outer peripheral surface of the core material and rotated on the image information carrying surface 2a. Development is promoted by the brush 9 rubbing the image information bearing surface 2a coated with the developer.

The cleaning unit 5 flows the developer remaining on the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 with a cleaning solution. The cleaning unit 5 includes a cleaning tank 13 storing a cleaning liquid, and a spray pipe 14 disposed above the cleaning tank 13 and spraying the cleaning liquid onto the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 passing above the cleaning tank 13; And a pump 15 for supplying the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 13 to the spray pipe 14. The cleaning liquid sprayed on the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 and flowing down from the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is collected in the cleaning tank 13 and reused, and the cleaning liquid is optionally collected in the cleaning tank 13 according to the deterioration of the cleaning liquid used repeatedly. Be replenished. The washed photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 is conveyed to the gumming section 6.

The gummed portion 6 covers the image information bearing surface 2a of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 with a gum solution and performs a desensitizing treatment to maintain the hydrophilicity of the non-image area. As a desensitizing agent contained in the gum solution, water-soluble polymer compounds such as gum arabic, dextrin and starch can be used. The gumming part 6 is disposed above the gum tank 16 storing the gum solution and above the gum tank 16, and a spray pipe for spraying the gum solution onto the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 passing above the gum tank 16 17 and a pump 18 for supplying the spray solution 17 with the gum solution stored in the gum tank 16. The gum solution sprayed on the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 and flowing down from the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is collected in the gum tank 16 and reused, and the gum solution is used as a gum tank in accordance with deterioration of the gum solution used repeatedly. It is replenished to 16 at any time.

Here, the washing solution may be, for example, water, but is preferably the same as the gum solution. When the cleaning liquid and the gum solution are the same processing liquid, for example, the waste liquid treatment can be shared, and the cost can be reduced.

Then, when the washing liquid and the gum solution are the same treatment liquid, the washing tank 13 and the gum tank 16 are connected to each other, and the first one of the washing tank 13 and the gum tank 16 is replenished with the treatment liquid. It is preferable that the treatment liquid overflowing from one tank flows into the other second tank of the washing tank 13 and the gum tank 16, and thereby the second tank is also replenished. In the illustrated example, the gum tank 16 is the first tank, the washing tank 13 is the second tank, the treatment liquid tank 20 storing the treatment liquid, and the pump 21 for delivering the treatment liquid from the treatment liquid tank 20 to the gum tank 16 The processing solution is replenished from time to time to the gum tank 16 from the replenishing unit 19 having the above-mentioned components, and the processing solution overflowing from the gum tank 16 flows into the washing tank 13, whereby the processing solution is also replenished to the washing tank 13. The treatment bath can be replenished to the washing tank 13 and the gum bath 16 by one replenishment unit 19, and the cost can be reduced by simplifying the apparatus.

Hereinafter, the configurations of the application unit 3 and the liquid supply unit 4 will be described.

The liquid supply unit 4 is configured to supply the developing solution to the coating unit 3 during development processing in which the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 passes through the coating unit 3 and to supply the moisturizing liquid to the coating unit 3 during non-development processing. There is. By supplying the moisturizing liquid to the coating unit 3 during non-development processing, the coating unit 3 is kept in a wet state. And, by keeping the coating unit 3 in a wet state, it is suppressed that the component in the developer which is the developer supplied to the coating unit 3 at the time of the development processing and remains in the coating unit 3 after the development processing Ru. Thereby, the coating nonuniformity of the developing solution resulting from a precipitate can be suppressed, and adhesion of the precipitate to the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 can be suppressed.

For example, water can be used as the moisturizing solution, and a chelating agent may be contained from the viewpoint of suppressing the precipitation of minerals contained in water. As a chelating agent, for example, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, its potassium salt, its sodium salt; diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, its potassium salt, its sodium salt; triethylenetetraminehexaacetic acid, its potassium salt, its sodium salt, hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid , Its potassium salt, its sodium salt; nitrilotriacetic acid, its sodium salt; 1-hydroxyethane-1,1-diphosphonic acid, its potassium salt, its sodium salt; aminotri (methylenephosphonic acid), its potassium salt, its sodium salt And organic phosphonic acids such as and phosphonoalkanetricarboxylic acids.

In addition, water as a moisturizer may contain various additives such as a humectant and a preservative. Examples of the wetting agent include ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, glycerin, trimethylolpropane and diglycerin. As the preservative, for example, phenol or a derivative thereof, formalin, imidazole derivative, sodium dehydroacetate, 4-isothiazolin-3-one derivative, benzisothiazolin-3-one, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, Benztriazole derivative, amidine guanidine derivative, quaternary ammonium salts, derivatives such as pyridine, quinoline, guanidine, etc., diazine, triazole derivative, oxazole, oxazine derivative, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3 diol of nitrobromo alcohol type And 1,1-dibromo-1-nitro-2-ethanol and 1,1-dibromo-1-nitro-2-propanol.

Water as the moisturizer described above is also suitably used as a diluent of a developer. Therefore, when the undiluted solution of the developing solution and the diluting solution are diluted by the solution supplying unit 4 and the diluted developing solution is supplied from the solution supplying unit 4 to the applying unit 3, the diluting solution is used as a moisturizing solution It is also good. Moreover, although the water or dilution liquid as said moisturizing liquid is a liquid different from a developing solution, a developing solution may be used as a moisturizing liquid.

FIG. 2 shows a configuration example of the coating unit 3 and the liquid supply unit 4.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, the liquid supply unit 4 has the developer tank 10 as described above, and the developer tank 10 stores the undiluted solution of the developer. The liquid supply unit 4 further includes a dilution liquid tank 22 storing a dilution liquid of the developer, and a valve 23 mixing the stock solution of the developer and the dilution liquid so as to make the dilution ratio variable. The valve 23 is driven by a control unit (not shown), and the stock solution of the developer tank 10 and the dilute solution of the dilute solution tank 22 are made to flow during development processing when the photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 is detected by the detection unit 7. The two solutions are mixed, and a developer obtained by diluting the stock solution at a predetermined dilution rate is supplied to the coating unit 3. On the other hand, at the time of non-development processing, the valve 23 circulates only the dilution liquid of the dilution liquid tank 22, and supplies the dilution liquid to the coating unit 3 as a moisturizing liquid.

The coating unit 3 has a bar coater 24 disposed facing the image information bearing surface 2a with a slight gap between the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 and the image information bearing surface 2a, an image information bearing surface 2a and a bar coater. And a slit die 26 in which a slit 25 communicating with a gap between the slit 24 and the slit 24 is formed. A backup roller 27 for supporting the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 is provided on the opposite side of the transport path of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 to the bar coater 24. The developer and the dilution liquid (moisturizing liquid) supplied from the liquid supply unit 4 to the coating unit 3 are supplied to the bar coater 24 through the slit 25.

The developer supplied to the bar coater 24 at the time of development processing is leveled to a predetermined thickness by passing through the gap between the image information bearing surface 2 a of the photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 passing through the coating unit 3 and the bar coater 24. It is applied to the image information bearing surface 2a in the state as it is. The diluted solution supplied to the bar coater 24 at the time of non-development processing remains in the bar coater 24 and keeps the bar coater 24 in a wet state. The supply amount and supply frequency of the diluent supplied to the bar coater 24 during non-development processing are not particularly limited, and an appropriate amount of diluent for keeping the bar coater 24 in a wet state may be supplied continuously or intermittently.

In this example, since the bar coater 24 is kept wet by the moisturizer supplied at the time of non-development processing, it is a developer supplied to the bar coater 24 at the time of development and in the developer remaining in the bar coater 24 after development. It is suppressed that the component of is deposited. Thereby, the coating nonuniformity of the developing solution resulting from a precipitate can be suppressed, and adhesion of the precipitate to the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 can be suppressed.

Further, in this example, the diluting solution for diluting the stock solution of the developing solution is used as the moisturizing solution, there is no need to prepare a moisturizing solution separately, and the cost can be reduced.

Further, in this example, the developer is supplied to the bar coater 24 through the slit 25, and in the process where the developer is supplied from the developer tank 10 to the bar coater 24, the developer is exposed to carbon dioxide gas in the air. It can be suppressed. Thereby, the fall of development activity of a developing solution can be controlled.

FIG. 3 shows another configuration example of the application unit 3 and the liquid supply unit 4. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element same as the example shown in FIG. 2, and description is abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the liquid supply unit 4 includes a developer tank 10 storing a stock solution of the developer, a dilution tank 22 storing a diluent of the developer, and a stock solution of the developer with variable dilution ratio. And a valve 23 for mixing the dilution liquid. The valve 23 distributes the undiluted solution of the developer tank 10 and the diluted solution of the diluted solution tank 22 during development processing, mixes the both solutions, and applies a developer formed by diluting the undiluted solution at a predetermined dilution ratio. Supply to 3. On the other hand, at the time of non-development processing, the valve 23 circulates only the dilution liquid of the dilution liquid tank 22, and supplies the dilution liquid to the coating unit 3 as a moisturizing liquid.

The coating unit 3 has a first roller 28 in contact with the image information bearing surface 2 a of the photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 and a second roller 29 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28. The developer and the diluent (moisturizer) supplied from the liquid supply unit 4 to the application unit 3 are supplied between the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 and the outer peripheral surface of the second roller 29, and the second roller 29 It is nipped on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28.

The developing solution nipped on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 at the time of development processing adheres to the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 in a state of being equalized to a predetermined thickness by being nipped, and passes through the coating portion 3 By contact between the image information bearing surface 2a of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 and the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28, the image forming surface 2a is transferred to the image information bearing surface 2a, and the image information bearing surface 2a is coated. The dilution liquid nipped on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 during non-development processing stays on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 and keeps the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 in a wet state.

Also in this example, since the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 is kept wet by the moisturizer supplied at the time of non-development processing, as in the example shown in FIG. Can be suppressed, and adhesion of precipitates to the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 can be suppressed. Further, in this embodiment, the apparatus can be simplified and the cost can be reduced as compared with the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 in which the slit 25 is circulated to isolate it from carbon dioxide gas in the air.

FIG. 4 shows another configuration example of the application unit 3 and the liquid supply unit 4. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element same as the example shown in the example shown in FIG. 2, or the example shown in FIG. 3, and description is abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

In each of the examples shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the diluting solution is used as the moisturizing solution, and the moisturizing solution and the developing solution are different solutions, but in the example shown in FIG. It is used.

The liquid supply unit 4 has a developing solution tank 10, and the developing solution tank 10 stores a developing solution obtained by diluting an undiluted solution in advance. The liquid supply unit 4 supplies the developing solution to the coating unit 3 at the time of development processing, and supplies the developing solution as a moisturizing liquid to the coating unit 3 also at the time of non-development processing.

The coating unit 3 is supplied from a first roller 28 in contact with the image information bearing surface 2 a of the photosensitive planographic printing plate 2, a second roller 29 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28, and the liquid supply unit 4. And an immersion tank 30 for storing the developer. A part of the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface of the second roller 29 is immersed in the developer stored in the immersion tank 30, and the developer attached to the outer peripheral surface of the second roller 29 is moved by the second roller 29 to the first roller. It is nipped to the outer peripheral surface of 28.

The developing solution nipped on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 at the time of development processing adheres to the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 in a state of being equalized to a predetermined thickness by being nipped, and passes through the coating portion 3 By contact between the image information bearing surface 2a of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 and the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28, the image forming surface 2a is transferred to the image information bearing surface 2a, and the image information bearing surface 2a is coated. The developing solution (moisturizing liquid) nipped on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 during non-development processing stays on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 and keeps the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 in a wet state.

Also in this example, since the outer peripheral surface of the first roller 28 is kept wet by the moisturizing liquid supplied at the time of non-development processing, the development due to the precipitate is carried out as in the respective examples shown in FIGS. Uneven application of the solution can be suppressed, and adhesion of precipitates to the photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 can be suppressed. Further, in this example, the developing solution is also used as a moisturizing solution, and the developing solution and the diluting solution (a moisturizing solution different from the developing solution) are switched by the valve 23 as compared with each example shown in FIGS. The equipment can be simplified and the cost can be reduced.

In this example where the developer is also used as a moisturizer, it is preferred that the developer does not substantially contain an alkali silicate (silicate). The silicate-free developer is suitable as a moisturizer because precipitation of components in the developer is suppressed.

When the developing solution is also used as a moisturizing solution, the photosensitive layer of the photosensitive planographic printing plate 2 is not dissolved in the developing solution supplied to the coating unit 3 as a moisturizing solution during non-development processing, and is applied as a moisturizing solution. The developer supplied to the part 3 can be said to be substantially unused developer. Therefore, from the viewpoint of efficiently using the developing solution, it is preferable that the developing solution supplied to the first roller 28 as a moisturizing solution at the time of non-development processing be recovered and reused.

In the present embodiment, the liquid supply unit 4 is provided with a circulation unit 31 which collects the developer flowing down from the first roller 28 and supplies the collected developer to the coating unit 3 again. The circulation unit 31 has a recovery tank 32 disposed below the first roller 28 and a pump 33 for delivering the developer recovered in the recovery tank 32 to the developer tank 10 of the liquid supply unit 4. The developer collected in the collection tank 32 may be delivered to the immersion tank 30 of the coating unit 3.

When the developer supplied to the coating unit 3 as a moisturizer is recovered and reused, the developer is repeatedly exposed to carbon dioxide gas in the air. From the viewpoint of suppressing the deterioration of the developing solution caused by carbon dioxide gas, the developing solution is preferably a pH 11 or less developing solution containing a carbonic acid buffer. Thereby, the developing activity of the developer can be maintained even by repeated use.

In each of the examples shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 in which the diluting solution is used as a moisturizing solution, the silicate-free developing solution in which the precipitation of the components in the developing solution is suppressed, and the decrease in developing activity A developer having a pH of 11 or less containing a suppressed carbonate buffer is suitably used as a developer. In each of the examples shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the diluted solution that has fallen from the bar coater 24 or the first roller 28 may be recovered and reused.

Further, in the example shown in FIG. 4, the liquid supply unit 4 develops the developing solution tank 10 storing the undiluted solution of the developing solution, the diluting solution tank 22 storing the diluting solution of the developing solution, and variable dilution ratio development. It has a valve 23 for mixing the undiluted solution of the solution and the dilution solution, and is configured to supply the developing solution to the immersion tank 30 of the coating unit 3 during development processing and supply the dilution liquid to the immersion tank 30 during non-development processing. It may be done.

Hereinafter, Examples and Comparative Examples will be described.

Example 1
Shown in FIG. 2, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit with a bar coater 24 and the slit die 26, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, development processing was carried out of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. During development processing, silicate-containing developer: HD-P8 developer (hereinafter referred to as "silicate developer" manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation) is supplied to the coating section, and during non-development processing, water for diluting the stock solution of developer is used as a moisturizer. It supplied to an application part and maintained the application part in the wet state. Water (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the application part, and was recovered and reused.

Example 2
Shown in FIG. 2, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit with a bar coater 24 and the slit die 26, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, development processing was carried out of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. During development processing: Silicate-free developer: An XP-D developer (hereinafter referred to as non-silicate developer) manufactured by Fujifilm Corp. is supplied to the coated part, and during non-development processing, the water used to dilute the stock solution of developer is moisturized. It supplied to the application part as a liquid, and maintained the application part in the wet state. Water (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the application part, and was recovered and reused.

Example 3
Shown in FIG. 2, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit with a bar coater 24 and the slit die 26, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, development processing was carried out of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. At the time of development processing, a non-silicate developer containing a carbonate buffer and having a pH of 11 or less: LC-VN2 developer (hereinafter referred to as low pH non-silicate developer) manufactured by Fujifilm Corp. At the time of development processing, water for diluting the stock solution of the developing solution was supplied as a moisturizer to the coating unit to keep the coating unit in a wet state. Water (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the application part, and was recovered and reused.

Example 4
Shown in FIG. 2, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit with a bar coater 24 and the slit die 26, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, development processing was carried out of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. At the time of development processing, the same low pH non-silicate developer as in Example 3 was supplied to the coated part, and also at non-development processing, the developer was supplied as a moisturizer to the coated part to maintain the coated part in a wet state. The developer (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the coating unit, and was collected and reused.

Example 5
Shown in FIG. 3, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit having a first roller 28 and second roller 29, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions were development of the light-sensitive lithographic printing plate . During development processing, the same silicate developer as in Example 1 was supplied to the coating section, and during non-development processing, water for diluting the stock solution of the developer was supplied as a moisturizer to the coating section to maintain the coating section in a wet state. . Water (moisturizer) was continuously supplied to the application section, and was recovered and reused.

Example 6
Shown in FIG. 3, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit having a first roller 28 and second roller 29, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions were development of the light-sensitive lithographic printing plate . During development processing, the same non-silicate developer as in Example 2 is supplied to the coating section, and during non-development processing, water for diluting the stock solution of the developer is supplied as a moisturizer to the coating section to maintain the coating section in a wet state. did. Water (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the application part, and was recovered and reused.

Example 7
Shown in FIG. 3, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit having a first roller 28 and second roller 29, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions were development of the light-sensitive lithographic printing plate . At the time of development processing, the same low pH non-silicate developer as in Example 3 is supplied to the coating section, and at non-development processing, water for diluting the stock solution of the developer is supplied to the coating section as a moisturizer, and the coating section is wet Maintained. Water (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the application part, and was recovered and reused.

Example 8
Shown in FIG. 3, using the developing apparatus having a coating unit having a first roller 28 and second roller 29, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions were development of the light-sensitive lithographic printing plate . At the time of development processing, the same low pH non-silicate developer as in Example 3 was supplied to the coated part, and also at non-development processing, the developer was supplied as a moisturizer to the coated part to maintain the coated part in a wet state. The developer (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the coating unit, and was collected and reused.

Example 9
Shown in FIG. 4, a developing apparatus having a coating unit with having a first roller 28 and second roller 29 and the immersion bath 30, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, the development of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate I did the processing. At the time of development processing, the same low pH non-silicate developer as in Example 3 is supplied to the coating section, and at non-development processing, water for diluting the stock solution of the developer is supplied to the coating section as a moisturizer, and the coating section is wet Maintained. Water (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the application part, and was recovered and reused.

Example 10
Shown in FIG. 4, a developing apparatus having a coating unit with having a first roller 28 and second roller 29 and the immersion bath 30, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, the development of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate I did the processing. At the time of development processing, the same low pH non-silicate developer as in Example 3 was supplied to the coated part, and also at non-development processing, the developer was supplied as a moisturizer to the coated part to maintain the coated part in a wet state. The developer (moisturizer) was intermittently supplied to the coating unit, and was collected and reused.

Comparative Example 1
Using FUJIFILM XP-1310R automatic developing machine, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, development processing was carried out of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. This automatic processor is a dip type automatic processor. As a developing solution, an XP-D developing solution (non-silicate developing solution) manufactured by Fujifilm Corp. was used, and the developing solution was replenished to the developing vessel as needed according to the decrease and deterioration of the developing solution in the developing vessel.

Comparative Example 2
Using Konica Corp. PSU-820 style automatic developing machine, at 1000 m ^2/2-week running conditions, development processing was carried out of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. This automatic developing machine is a metering type automatic developing machine. A dedicated developer (silicate developer) was used as the developer.

In the above Examples 1 to 10, Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2, the surface properties of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate which has been subjected to the development processing are evaluated, and the amount used of the developer and the amount of moisturizer or replenisher. The amount of liquid used was measured. In the evaluation of the surface properties, when the coating film is uniform throughout, the surface quality is good "A" evaluation, and when the coating film is uneven such as streaks, the surface quality is "poor" B "rating. The results are shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, in Comparative Example 2 of the metering method, uneven processing occurred during long-term use, and the evaluation of the surface quality was B evaluation. It is considered that this is because the components in the developing solution are deposited at the coating portion, and the deposited portion is accumulated over time in the coating portion and / or adheres to the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. On the other hand, in each of Examples 1 to 10 in which the application part is kept in a wet state by supplying water or a developing solution as a moisturizing liquid to the application part at the time of non-developing processing, all of the evaluation of surface properties Was rated A. By keeping the coated part in a wet state, it is possible to suppress deposition of the components in the developer at the coated part even by long-term use, and it is understood that the quality of the surface properties of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate subjected to development processing can be enhanced.

In Comparative Example 1 of the dip method, the evaluation of the surface properties became A evaluation, using a developing solution of 35 cm ³ in the development of per 1 m ^2, also developing a developer per hour 230 cm ³ The tank had to be refilled. In contrast, in Examples 1 to 10, the developer necessary for development per 1 m ² is 20 cm ^3, The water or developing solution as a moisturizing liquid during a non-development processing intermittently applied portion In Examples 1 to 4 and Examples 6 to 10 in which the application part is kept in a wet state by being supplied to the container, the amount of water or developer used as the moisturizing liquid is also 20 cm ³ to 30 cm ³ Met. By using a metering system and supplying a moisturizing liquid to the coating portion at the time of non-development processing to keep the coating portion in a wet state, the amount of developer used is reduced, and the surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate subjected to development processing. It can be seen that the quality of properties can be maintained in high quality over a long period of time. Thereby, the running cost of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus can be reduced.

As described above, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification is a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus for developing the photosensitive lithographic printing plate carrying image information, An application section for applying a developing solution to the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate to be conveyed; and the developing solution supplied to the applying section during development processing in which the photosensitive lithographic printing plate passes through the applying section. And a liquid supply unit for supplying a moisturizing liquid to the application unit during non-development processing.

In the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the moisturizer is a liquid different from the developer, and the liquid supply unit selects the developer and the moisturizer. Supply to the application section.

Further, in the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the developer is obtained by diluting the stock solution of the developer with a diluent, and the liquid supply unit is used as the moisturizer, The dilution liquid is supplied to the application unit.

In the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the developer is a silicate-free developer.

Further, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification is disposed on the upstream side of the coating unit along the transport path of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate, and the photosensitive lithographic printing plate The liquid supply unit switches the supply of the developer or the moisturizer to the coating unit based on the detection result of the detection unit.

In the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the developer is a silicate-free developer, and the moisturizer is the same as the developer.

In the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the developer is a developer having a pH of 11 or less containing a carbonate buffer.

Further, in the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the liquid supply unit collects the moisturizing solution supplied to the coating unit, and the collected moisturizing solution is again applied to the coating unit. It has a circulation part to supply.

In the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the coating unit is disposed to face the image information bearing surface with a slight gap between the coating unit and the image information bearing surface. And a slit die having a slit formed in the space between the image information carrying surface and the bar coater, and the developer and the moisturizing liquid are fed from the liquid supply unit through the slit. The developer supplied to the bar coater and passed through the gap between the image information bearing surface and the bar coater is applied to the image information bearing surface.

In the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the coating unit includes a first roller in contact with the image information bearing surface and a second roller in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first roller. And the developer and the moisturizer are supplied from the liquid supplying portion between the outer peripheral surface of the first roller and the outer peripheral surface of the second roller, and the first roller is supplied by the second roller. The developing solution nipped by the outer peripheral surface of the roller and nipped by the outer peripheral surface of the first roller is applied to the image information bearing surface.

Further, in the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the coating unit may include an immersion tank for storing the developer supplied from the liquid supply unit, and a contact unit with the image information bearing surface. The developer or the developer or the like, comprising: 1 roller, and a second roller in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first roller, wherein a part of the outer peripheral surface of the second roller in the circumferential direction is stored in the immersion tank The developer or the moisturizing solution which is immersed in the moisturizing liquid and attached to the outer peripheral surface of the second roller is nipped by the second roller to the outer peripheral surface of the first roller, and is nipped by the outer peripheral surface of the first roller The developer is applied to the image information bearing surface.

In addition, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification is disposed downstream of the coating unit along the transport path of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate, and the image information bearing surface is The squeeze roller which picks up the apply | coated said developing solution, A brush arrange | positioned between the said application part and the said squeeze roller and which rubs the said image information carrying surface by which the said developing solution was apply | coated is provided.

The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification is disposed downstream of the squeeze roller along the transport path, and includes a cleaning unit that cleans the photosensitive lithographic printing plate. And a gumming part for subjecting the washed photosensitive lithographic printing plate to a desensitizing treatment.

Further, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification comprises a processing liquid used for cleaning the photosensitive lithographic printing plate and a processing liquid used for desensitizing the photosensitive lithographic printing plate And are the same.

In the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification, the cleaning unit has a cleaning tank for storing the processing solution, and the gumming unit is a gum tank for storing the processing solution. And the washing tank and the gum tank are connected to each other, the first processing tank is replenished with the processing liquid in the washing tank and the gum tank, and the processing liquid overflows from the first tank. Flows into the other second tank.

Further, the photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method disclosed in the present specification is a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method for developing processing a photosensitive lithographic printing plate carrying image information, wherein the photosensitive The developing solution is supplied to the coating unit for coating the developing solution on the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate during the development process in which the photosensitive lithographic printing plate passes through the coating unit, and the moisturizing solution during the non-development process. Supply and keep the application part wet.

The present invention relates to a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus and a photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method capable of efficiently using a developer and capable of enhancing the quality of the surface properties of a photosensitive lithographic printing plate subjected to development processing. Can be provided.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, this is merely an example, and the present invention can be practiced in variously modified modes without departing from the scope of the present invention. This application is based on Japanese Patent Application (Application No. 2017-191498) filed on Sep. 29, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus 2 photosensitive lithographic printing plate 2 a image information bearing surface 3 coating unit 4 liquid supplying unit 5 washing unit 6 gum feeding unit 7 detection unit 8 squeeze roller 9 brush 10 developer tank 11 pump 12 waste solution Tank 13 Washing tank 14 Spray pipe 15 Pump 16 Gum tank 17 Spray pipe 18 Pump 19 Refilling part 20 Treatment liquid tank 21 Pump 22 Dilution liquid tank 23 Valve 24 Bar coater 25 Slit 26 Slit die 27 Backup roller 28 First roller 29 Second roller 30 immersion tank 31 circulation section 32 collection tank 33 pump

Claims

A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus for developing a photosensitive lithographic printing plate carrying image information, comprising:
An application section for applying a developer to the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate to be conveyed;
A liquid supply unit that supplies the developer to the coating unit during development processing in which the photosensitive lithographic printing plate passes through the coating unit, and supplies a moisturizing liquid to the coating unit during non-development processing;
Photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus comprising:
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
The moisturizer is a liquid different from the developer,
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the liquid supply section selectively supplies the developer and the moisturizing liquid to the coating section.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
The developer is a stock solution of the developer diluted with a diluent,
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the liquid supply section supplies the diluted liquid to the coating section as the moisturizing liquid.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the developer is a silicate-free developer.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein
The detection unit is disposed upstream of the coating unit along the transport path of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate, and includes a detection unit that detects the photosensitive lithographic printing plate.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the liquid supply unit switches the supply of the developer or the moisturizing liquid to the coating unit based on the detection result of the detection unit.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
The developer is a silicate-free developer,
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the moisturizing liquid is the same liquid as the developer.
7. The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the developer is a pH 11 or less developer containing a carbonate buffer.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, comprising:
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the liquid supply unit recovers the moisturizing solution supplied to the coating unit and includes a circulation unit that supplies the collected moisturizing solution to the coating unit again.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein
The application unit is
A bar coater disposed facing the image information bearing surface with a slight gap between the image information bearing surface and the image information bearing surface;
A slit die in which a slit communicating with a gap between the image information bearing surface and the bar coater is formed;
Have
The developer and the moisturizer are supplied to the bar coater from the liquid supply unit through the slit.
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the developer passed through a gap between the image information bearing surface and the bar coater is applied to the image information bearing surface.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein
The application unit is
A first roller in contact with the image information bearing surface;
A second roller in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first roller;
Have
The developer and the moisturizing liquid are supplied from the liquid supplying portion between the outer peripheral surface of the first roller and the outer peripheral surface of the second roller, and the second roller nips the outer peripheral surface of the first roller. And
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the developer nipped on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller is applied to the image information bearing surface.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein
The application unit is
An immersion tank for storing the developer and the moisturizer supplied from the liquid supply unit;
A first roller in contact with the image information bearing surface;
A second roller in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first roller;
Have
A part of the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface of the second roller is immersed in the developer or the moisturizing liquid stored in the immersion tank, and the developer or the moisturizing liquid attached to the outer peripheral surface of the second roller Is nipped by the second roller to the outer peripheral surface of the first roller,
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the developer nipped on the outer peripheral surface of the first roller is applied to the image information bearing surface.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising:
A squeeze roller disposed downstream of the coating unit along the transport path of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate, for squeezing the developer coated on the image information bearing surface;
A brush which is disposed between the application section and the squeeze roller and which rubs the image information bearing surface to which the developer is applied;
Photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus comprising:
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein
A cleaning unit disposed downstream of the squeeze roller along the transport path and cleaning the photosensitive lithographic printing plate;
A gumming part for subjecting the washed photosensitive lithographic printing plate to a desensitizing treatment;
Photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus comprising:
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the processing liquid used for cleaning the photosensitive lithographic printing plate and the processing liquid used for desensitizing the photosensitive lithographic printing plate are the same.
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein
The cleaning unit has a cleaning tank for storing the processing solution,
The gumming part has a gum tank for storing the treatment liquid,
The washing tank and the gum tank are connected to each other,
The photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing apparatus, wherein the processing liquid is replenished in one of the washing tank and the gum tank, and the processing liquid overflowing from the first tank flows into the other second tank.
A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development method for developing a photosensitive lithographic printing plate carrying image information, comprising:
The developing solution is supplied to the coating unit for coating the developing solution on the image information bearing surface of the photosensitive lithographic printing plate to be conveyed, during the developing process in which the photosensitive lithographic printing plate passes through the coating unit, A photosensitive lithographic printing plate development processing method, wherein a moisturizing solution is supplied at the time of processing to keep the coated part in a wet state.