Ofsettrükis

Ofsettrükis is a widely used printing technique that relies on the principle of immiscibility of oil and water. In this method, the image to be printed is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket, and then from the blanket to the printing surface. This indirect transfer process is the defining characteristic of offset printing.

The process begins with an image carrier, typically a metal plate that has been treated to attract ink in certain areas (image areas) and repel it in others (non-image areas). The plate is then dampened with water, which adheres to the non-image areas, while the ink adheres to the image areas. The plate then rotates, transferring the ink to a rubber blanket cylinder. This blanket cylinder then presses the ink onto the paper or other substrate passing between it and an impression cylinder.

Offset printing is known for its high quality, detail, and consistency. It is suitable for a wide range of printing materials, including paper, cardboard, and plastics, and can produce both large and small print runs efficiently. The technique is commonly used for printing books, magazines, newspapers, brochures, and packaging. Its popularity stems from its ability to produce sharp, clear images with a wide tonal range at a cost-effective price for mass production. Modern offset printing presses are highly automated, allowing for precise control over ink coverage and color registration.