Agfa Graphics today announced the launch of the new chemistry-free CtP solution for newspapers. The solution includes the new :Advantage N-TR XXT platesetter, the new :N94-VCF chem-free plates, and the high-speed :VXCF85 Clean-Out unit. Together, the system is making its debut at IFRA 2011 in Vienna.

The :Advantage N TR XXT platesetter can produce up to 300 plates per hour. This high-volume, heavy-duty system offers 100% reliability and worry-free operation, even under the most harsh and stressful production situations. It is the only CtP system available for the newspaper market that offers continuous, unattended monitoring and reporting of all engine operating parameters. An IR web cam installed inside the engine provides operators with live, on-line monitoring of the plate handling, preventing unexpected production stops. The system also features improved plate-loading ergonomics with the new generation of FlexTrays, which make plate-loading more efficient and increase operator safety.

The :N94-VCF plate is Agfa Graphics' next-generation chemistry-free violet plate designed specifically for newspapers and coldset printers. This eco-friendly plate, the successor to the popular :N92-VCF plate, is based on Agfa's proven photopolymer chemistry-free plate technology and now offers run lengths 30-40% longer (run-length of up to 200.000). The :N94-VCF is an extremely stable plate, substantially reducing operators cost while increasing convenience and print quality. Since no chemistry is required, all processing variables affecting image consistency are removed. Instead, the plate is cleaned out with a pH neutral clean-out solution in Agfa Graphics' :VXCF85 COU (clean-out unit). VXCF85 is the perfect speed match for the new Advantage N TR XXT. The COU now also monitors operations on-line and the user interface is brought to a state of the art level so both operating and servicing is made much easier.
"It is no surprise that more and more newspaper printers around the world are using Agfa Graphics' chemistry-free solutions. We can offer them a complete solution, including workflow, that allows them to meet the challenges of today's changing newspaper market and beyond," said Emiel Sweevers, Marketing Manager Newspaper Equipment at Agfa Graphics. "Our new chem-free system was designed with newspaper printers in mind that are also exploring new business opportunities in the (semi)commercial market and therefore need to match higher print quality standards. Those newspaper printers looking for durable, sustainable solutions that can add to the company's goal of cost savings and efficiency improvement, have found the complete package in the new :Advantage N TR XXT system with chem-free plates."