Letterset printing is a method of offset printing that involves the use of a letterset plate or a combination of a letterpress plate and a lithographic plate to transfer ink onto paper. Also known as dry offset printing or web offset letterpress, this technique is commonly used for high-speed printing of labels, packaging, and other printed materials.
In letterset printing, the letterset plate is similar to a relief printing plate used in letterpress printing. It contains raised images and text, which are inked and then transferred onto a rubber blanket cylinder. The inked image is then offset or transferred from the rubber blanket cylinder onto the paper surface. Unlike traditional letterpress printing, the ink is not directly transferred onto the paper but rather goes through an intermediate cylinder to achieve the desired effect.
This printing process offers several advantages. It allows for high-speed production, reducing printing time and improving efficiency. It also provides the ability to print on a variety of surfaces, including cardboard, plastic, and metal, making it suitable for packaging applications. Additionally, letterset printing can produce sharp and clean images, with precise registration and color consistency.
However, it is worth noting that letterset printing has largely been replaced by more advanced printing technologies, such as digital printing and flexography. Nonetheless, it still holds relevance in specific industries where high-volume production and consistent print quality are crucial.
