EP2758250B1 - Multi-layered structure form for use as printing blanket or printing plate for relief printing, in particular flexo printing - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a multilayer sheet material for use as a blanket or printing plate for high-pressure, in particular flexographic printing. The invention further relates to a method for producing such a multilayer sheet.
The printing technique is concerned with the duplication of print templates by transferring inks from a printing form to a print carrier such as paper, cardboard or plastic. This includes the process of high-pressure technology, in which the printing elements are raised above the depressions on the printing form, ie the image areas of the printing form are higher than the non-image areas. The increased trained printing elements or image locations are provided with the ink, whereby they form the artwork, which can then be transferred to the print substrate to image the artwork there.
The printing form may be a multilayer sheet, which may be formed as a printing plate or as a blanket. In both cases, the multilayer sheet has, as the uppermost layer, a print layer which is aligned with the print carrier. The print layer may be provided on a strength support layer. If the print layer and, if appropriate, the reinforcement layer are flexible, for example by photopolymers, this is referred to as the flexographic printing process. Further layers between the printing layer and the optional reinforcement layer are possible in the high-pressure process, for example in the form of a compressible layer. Also a plurality of compressible layers and reinforcing layers may be provided, which are preferably arranged alternately. All layers conventionally form an adhesive bond with each other, ie the adjacent layers are adhesively bonded to each other, ie cohesively by eg adhesive or by vulcanization.

The formation of the elevated printing elements or image locations of the printing original can be effected by laser engraving in the high-pressure process and in particular in the flexographic printing process. For this purpose, the printing layer on photopolymers. Among photopolymers, photo-curing plastics such as e.g. Epoxy resins understood. Alternatively, the raised printing elements or image areas may also be processed by mechanical processing such as e.g. be produced by milling on the print layer.

Such a printing layer of photopolymer is for example in the patent EP 1 315 617 B1 described. In this case, the printing layer comprises an elastomeric binder, a polymerizable compound, a photoinitiator or a Photoiniatorsystem and a finely divided filler, for example of a fumed oxide (silica, titania, alumina). In this case, the material of the print layer is irradiated by means of laser light at the points which later form the printing elements or image areas, and the remaining areas not. By irradiation, for example with actinic light, in the areas of the later printing elements or image areas, the full-surface crosslinking (vulcanization) of this printing layer takes place, so that a printing relief is engraved into the printing layer by means of a laser. The area of the printing layer formed in this way is then also referred to as a relief layer, printing relief, printing form or printing original after the laser treatment. In the non-irradiated areas no crosslinking of the photopolymers takes place, so that they can be washed out after irradiation, for example, and form the depressions or non-image areas of the printing layer.

The disadvantage here, for example, that the production of a printing plate is very expensive due to several steps. In most cases, an adjustment of the Contact pressure when printing at different speeds due to the dynamic stiffness of the material required. Furthermore, the photopolymeric printing layer or printing original is characterized by low color transfer. Also, errors may occur in mounting the exposed photopolymer sheet. Finally, the training as a roll goods limits, so that the end user must have different formats in stock.

To overcome these disadvantages, the published patent teaches WO 2010 121 887 A1 to form the polymeric material of the printing layer as a vulcanizate, ie to produce the complete crosslinking of the polymers by vulcanization of the entire printing layer, so that a laser engraving of the printing elements or image areas and subsequent washing of the non-irradiated areas of the depressions or non-image areas of the printing layer not more is needed. Rather, provided with a vulcanized printing layer multilayer sheet of the published patent application WO 2010 121 887 A1 delivered in the form of a blanket or a printing plate as a roll to the customer. This mounts the rolls on a sleeve (adapter, impression cylinder). Then, the removal of the print layer in the areas which are to form the depressions or non-image areas of the print layer, for example by a laser or a mechanical processing such as milling connected to a subsequent cleaning, so as to form the artwork.

In conjunction with today's laser technologies, the vulcanizate of a printing layer can be engraved with dots of different depths and shapes. The removal of the vulcanizate of the printing layer to form the depressions or non-image areas of the artwork takes place quickly, cleanly and without solvent. It is guaranteed a 100% fit and reproducibility. Of great economic importance is the fact that the customer in the preparation of the printing form according to the teaching of the publication WO 2010 121 887 A1 significantly fewer process steps needed.

In this sense, the term "vulcanizate" is the name for products or product components produced by vulcanization of a vulcanizable polymer mixture, in this case the printing layer. The polymer blend contains one or more rubbery rubber components. A vulcanizate is characterized by elastic properties. Depending on the type of rubber used, crosslinking takes place by means of sulfur (eg NR) or peroxides (eg EPDM). Of particular importance is the thermal vulcanization at temperatures of 130 to 200 ° C. Cold vulcanization or radiation vulcanization can also be used. Information on usable vulcanizates are the published patent application WO 2010 121 887 A1 whose disclosure is also part of the present invention. With regard to the mixture ingredients, reference is made in particular to the published patent application DE 100 04 632 A1 directed. In the method of the publication WO 2010 121 887 A1 the surface of the print layer is completely formed before the removal as a printing element or image position, ie a vulcanized unprocessed print layer would transfer color to the print carrier over its entire surface during printing, since the print original is only generated by the not yet done removal. This is disadvantageous, since the areas of the print layer, which are not part of the artwork, must be removed completely and above all over a large area. If these are larger contiguous areas, they must nevertheless be removed with the very fine machining of a laser or milling cutter, which is provided for the formation of the fine printing original, ie large areas must be time-consuming removed with a very fine tool. In particular, if the proportion of the surface of the print layer which is to form the print elements or image areas after the removal is comparatively small with respect to the area of the depressions or non-image areas of the print layer to be removed, the expense, in particular the time required, is further increased and thus also the costs eg about the corresponding machine use, in particular the machine utilization times and the machine and tool wear.

Furthermore, the printing original is regularly washed or cleaned in printing processes in order to keep the artwork clean and to avoid possible formation of unwanted printing elements or image locations in the worn area of the depressions or non-image areas by color or dirt particles. Under this background, the use of created by the known methods by laser or Fräsaser Abtrag print templates is disadvantageous because the generated by erosion areas of the wells or non-image areas of the print layer color or dirt particles provide a relatively good substrate for clinging.
The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a multilayer sheet of the type described above, in which the aforementioned disadvantages are overcome, in particular the print original can be generated easier and faster than previously known, in particular the wells or non-image areas of the artwork easier and faster than previously known can be generated.
The object is achieved by the features of the characterizing part of claim 1 and the method according to claim 10. Advantageous developments are described in the respective subclaims.
Thus, the present invention relates to a multilayer sheet according to the preamble of claim 1, whose first layer is peelable from the further layer (strippable).
The invention is based on the finding that it is very complicated, in particular time-consuming, to produce the formation of the depressions or non-image areas of the print layer for producing the print original by ablative processing, for example by laser ablation or milling. Furthermore, a relatively rough background is produced by the abrasive machining. Therefore, according to the present invention, these portions of the first layer of the multi-layer sheet which can be used as a print layer of a blanket or a printing plate can be peeled off from the at least one further layer. The print layer may be due to their Composition also be referred to as an elastomer layer or due to their geometric arrangement as a cover layer. Preferably, an elastomeric material is used to produce the printing layer, which is manufactured and sold under the product name AA6FIZ by Gummiwerk Kraiburg GmbH & Co. KG.

Thus, according to the invention, only the areas of the print layer are elaborately processed by means of mechanical removal, in which also elevated printing elements or image locations are to be formed as a print original. The remaining areas, which are conventionally likewise expensive to machine by means of mechanical removal in order to create the depressions or non-image areas of the print layer, are easily and quickly stripped or stripped from the at least one further layer according to the invention.

This is also advantageous because the background, which is left after stripping or stripping on the at least one further layer, is more uniform and smoother than after a removing machining. In this way, paint or dirt particles adhere worse to this background. As a result, impurities can be avoided or at least reduced in the regions of the recesses or non-image areas of the printed layer produced by removal, as a result of which the expense of cleaning or washing the print original can be reduced.

On the one hand, laser ablation or mechanical removal in the area of the original can first be carried out, and then the excess area of the printed layer can be separated from it and stripped off (stripped). On the other hand, first the non-processing area of the print layer can be separated from the remaining area of the print layer and stripped off and then the artwork in the remaining area of the print layer created by laser ablation or mechanical removal. In this case, the first-mentioned approach is to be preferred, since the surface to be stripped later (to be stripped) of the printing layer gives mechanical stability during the removal processing of the print original, in particular in the marginal areas of the print original.

The peelability or strippability of the first layer is made possible according to the invention in that the adhesive effect is formed between the first layer and the at least one further layer in such a way that it enables on the one hand a secure adhesion of the first layer to the at least one further layer and, on the other hand, the first Layer under the action of a tensile force substantially in the direction A, that is, perpendicular to the plane of the multi-layer sheet, can be stripped or stripped from the at least one further layer.
The separation of the print layer into a region in which the elevated pressure elements or image points are / can be formed, and a region which can be removed by peeling, can be done by cutting, eg manually with a carpet knife or the like or else mechanically with a suitable cutting tool or other release agent such as water jet or sandblast cutting, cutting, milling or the like. Thus, it is also conceivable to have this separation carried out by the mechanical removal processing, for example by means of a laser or milling cutter, by removing the first layer to a depth, thereby producing the separation of the first layer into the two regions.
In the context of this invention, the term "strippable" or "strippable" is to be understood as meaning that a layer has tensile forces acting essentially in direction A, ie perpendicular to the plane of the multilayer sheet, of its background, such as at least one further layer can be replaced. In this case, the detachment takes place as completely as possible by the tensile forces, ie leave without residues or with as few residues on the ground.

According to the invention, the multilayer sheet has an intermediate layer which has a lower separation resistance T than the first layer.
It is advantageous hereby that the peelability or strippability of the first layer is ensured by the at least one further layer. In this way, the intermediate layer in terms of separation resistance T is the weakest link in the structure of the multilayer sheet, so that at a sufficiently large tensile force substantially in the direction A, the intermediate layer is yielded first and the first layer of the at least one further layer can be stripped or stripped.
In this case, the intermediate layer has a separation resistance T, which is between 50% and 5% of the separation resistance T of the first layer, preferably between 40% and 5% of the separation resistance T of the first layer, more preferably between 30% and 5% of the separation resistance T of the first Layer, most preferably between 20% between 5% of the separation resistance T of the first layer. In absolute terms, the intermediate layer has a separation resistance T between 1.2 N / mm and 0.1 N / mm, preferably a separation resistance T between 1.0 N / mm and 0.1 N / mm, particularly preferably a separation resistance T between 0 , 8 N / mm and 0.1 N / mm, most preferably a separation resistance T between 0.6 N / mm and 0.4 N / mm.
The term of the separation resistance T in the sense of the standard DIN 53 530 is to be understood, which deals with the examination of organic materials in the form of a separation test on adhesively bonded fabric layers. For the purposes of the standard DIN 53 530, the term "separation resistance T" is to be understood as meaning the quotient of the separation force F determined according to the separation test of this standard and the sample width b. Accordingly, the separation resistance T is measured and expressed as force per distance in N / mm.
Alternatively, however, the separation resistance T of the intermediate layer relative to the first layer can be reduced in another way, for example by the Material property of the intermediate layer and / or the surface finish and / or their coating.
The term "intermediate layer" is to be understood here as a layer or else a coating which is provided between the first layer and the at least one further layer of the multilayer sheet. In accordance with the invention, it is important that the intermediate layer is in contact with the peelable or strippable first layer and the substrate from which the first layer is to be stripped or stripped, and that the separation resistance T of the intermediate layer between the first layer is reduced first layer and the substrate acts. In other words, under the action of a tensile force substantially in the direction A, the intermediate layer gives in to this tensile force and tears. The further structure or the procurement of the multilayer sheet is so far not relevant for the present invention, as long as this effect is maintained.

According to the invention, the further layer and / or the intermediate layer comprises a vulcanizate based on at least one elastomer.
It is advantageous here that the same production processes, in particular vulcanization, can be used by the use of a vulcanizate both for the first layer and for the intermediate layer and thus the production costs are kept low. Also, the crosslinking of the elastomers of the first layer and the intermediate layer results in good adhesion of the first layer to the at least one further layer. Although this liability is inventively canceled by tensile forces, however, a reliable and permanent adhesion of the region of the multi-layer sheet, which is to serve as a printing template or a printing plate in a blanket, required to print the template reliably and over a longer period than blanket or printing plate to be able to use, since in this case the artwork may not be separated from its background. In particular, when using a blanket on cylinder printing presses significant centrifugal forces act on the Print template, which the adhesion between the first layer and the intermediate layer must certainly withstand over a longer period of time.

According to a further aspect of the invention, both the first layer and the further layer and / or the intermediate layer each have a vulcanizate based on the same elastomer.

It is advantageous here that in this way the first layer and the intermediate layer are resistant to swelling against the same media. This is particularly advantageous in the production or use of printing blankets and printing plates, since by a swelling of the first layer or the intermediate layer of the blanket or the printing plate, the delimitation between the increased trained printing elements or image locations of the artwork and the wells or non-image areas of the artwork can be reduced or completely prevented. Thus, by swelling a layer, especially in the edge region, where media can penetrate laterally into the layers, there may be an increase in a depression or non-image area, so that this area likewise comes into contact with ink during printing and these unintentionally come into contact with the print substrate transfers, ie Formed by the swelling increased printing elements or image locations of the artwork, which are not provided. In this way, the print template can be changed and a print image of this can be generated, which makes the print carrier and thus the print template unusable.

Such swelling is known in the use of adhesives which are used to bond individual layers of a multilayer sheet together. However, since known adhesives are not dimensionally stable and tend to swell over time, it is advantageous to use, instead of adhesives, a vulcanizate based on the same elastomer as the intermediate layer, to coat the individual layers of a multilayer sheet, in particular the first layer and the intermediate layer. sticking together but peelable or strippable to connect.

According to the invention, the vulcanizate of both the first layer and the further layer and / or the intermediate layer can be removed with a laser, preferably a carbon dioxide laser, a fiber laser or a diode laser.
It is advantageous to use a laser because they are already commonly used for the production of artwork and thus the multilayer sheet according to the invention can be processed by means of existing manufacturing facilities. In particular, eg carbon dioxide lasers (also called carbon dioxide lasers or CO ₂ lasers) are among the most common and most powerful industrially used lasers. They are primarily used for material processing because they are relatively efficient and inexpensive. Likewise, fiber lasers are characterized by a robust construction, a high beam quality and efficiency, which is why fiber lasers are suitable for many applications. For example, high-power fiber lasers can be used for welding, cutting or abrading. The use of a diode laser is also preferred, since diode lasers are distinguished by their very compact design, a comparatively high electrical / optical efficiency, comparatively long maintenance intervals, the possibility of coupling and transporting the radiation in optical cables, and a very long service life. As a result, the acceptance of the multilayer sheet according to the invention by the customer is increased. The laser ablation can be done both by laser ablation and laser desorption.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the intermediate layer comprises particles which are at least partially enclosed by the material of the intermediate layer. It is advantageous here that these partially or completely enclosed bodies reduce the amount of the elastomer material which is present in the intermediate layer between the first layer and the at least one further layer by their own volume and thus reduce the separation resistance T of the intermediate layer. In this case, the reduction of the separation resistance T, for example, by the shape, the volume or the surface texture of the body are affected. This can also be done by the thickness of the intermediate layer in the direction A or the proportion of the body in the composition of the intermediate layer. Likewise, substances can be added to the material of the intermediate layer, in particular its elastomer material, which reduce the release force resistance T of the intermediate layer, in particular of the elastomer of the intermediate layer, to such an extent that the desired release force resistance T is achieved.

As materials of the bodies, e.g. Glass, polymer, metal, minerals, graphite or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) into consideration. Preferably, the bodies are made of polymer, more preferably of thermoplastic polymer, in particular of polystyrene, in particular of expandable polystyrene, as it is known under the brand name "Styropor ™".

According to one aspect of the invention, the particles of the intermediate layer are at least partially spherical.

In this embodiment, it is advantageous for the body to be relatively easy to peel off materials which adhere to a spherical surface. In this way, a defined and reproducible cracking behavior of the intermediate layer can be achieved, so that the first layer can be defined and reproducibly stripped or stripped from the substrate. Preferably, no or as little residues as possible are left on the substrate, at least in such a small and low degree in direction A, that these residues do not distort the artwork.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the further layer is formed as a reinforcement layer, preferably as a dimensionally stable reinforcement layer.

In this preferred embodiment, it is advantageous that the at least one further layer as a reinforcement layer increases the stability of the multi-layered structure and makes it more resilient, more robust and easier to handle. It can the reinforcing layer has one or more different types of reinforcements such as one or more textile structures such as knitted fabric, knitted fabric or fabrics of various configurations. These may, for example, be embedded in a polymeric material, preferably in a vulcanized polymeric material, ie be surrounded by it or have it opposite the printing layer, in order to form a substrate or a corresponding surface for the peelable printing layer. As a reinforcement layer, a film such as a polymer film (eg polyamide film) or metal foil can be used. In the case of a fabric having many layers and at least two reinforcement layers, it is also possible to implement a combination of a textile structure and a film or a film composite.

It is particularly preferred that the reinforcement layer is formed as a dimensionally stable reinforcement layer by e.g. Aluminum, steel or a PET or PE film has. It is particularly advantageous in this particularly preferred embodiment that such a dimensionally stable reinforcement layer can cause a particularly high stability of the multilayer sheet.

According to one aspect of the invention, a compressible layer is arranged between the first layer and the further layer, preferably between the intermediate layer and the further layer.

In this way, the first layer is applied as a print layer directly on a compressible layer. This is advantageous because in this way the compressible layer - also called a compression layer - serves to avoid a rolling process by reducing the volume in the pressure zone and to compensate for indentation differences. For the compressible layer, it is crucial that it does not expand when compressed, ie that its volume actually shrinks when compressed, so that no laterally spreading distortions arise. For example, microspheres made of plastic in a rubber compound or a microporous cell structure can be used here enclosed gas chambers (foams). The relevant materials are in particular polyurethanes, crosslinked polyethylenes, polypropylenes, NBR, Neoprene and EPM. The modulus of elasticity is usually in the range of 1 MPa to 1000 MPa. For further details on the compressible layer, reference is made in particular to the documents EP 0 844 100 B1 and EP 2 070 717 A1 directed. According to a further aspect of the invention, the first layer comprises a textile fabric, preferably an open textile fabric, more preferably a nonwoven fabric.
This is advantageous because the textile fabric, preferably the open textile fabric, particularly preferably the nonwoven fabric, can be penetrated by the material of the first layer and thus combine the properties of the material of the first layer and the textile fabric. In this way, mechanical forces acting on the first layer, for example during mechanical processing or during stripping (stripping), can be absorbed by the textile fabric. Thus, in this way the first layer can be brought to a desired thickness by grinding. In this case, the textile fabric may be a knit, knitted or woven fabric. The textile fabric is preferably an open textile fabric, particularly preferably a nonwoven fabric.
For example, the mechanical forces acting on a grinding process up to a thickness of about 1 mm can still be absorbed by the vulcanized material of the first layer. With a thinner first layer, however, this can no longer be ensured, so that it is expedient to embed an open textile fabric in the material of the first layer, which then at least partially absorbs the mechanical forces. Furthermore, regardless of the layer thickness, it is advantageous to introduce an open textile fabric, preferably a nonwoven fabric, into the material of the first layer, since it can also at least partially absorb the tensile forces during stripping of the first layer.

According to another aspect of the invention, at least one layer comprises a magnetic or magnetizable material.

This is advantageous because in this way the multilayer sheet is applied by means of magnetic force to a base such as e.g. a printing cylinder or a printing plate holder can be kept. Here are usually used adhesives. However, they can swell, i. change their shape in particular in height and thereby raise areas of the blanket or the printing plate. As a result, depressions or non-image areas can be raised in such a way that they act unintentionally as elevated printing elements or image areas and thus change the artwork and render the print substrate unusable, since instead of the desired printed image another is produced.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the intermediate layer has a lower separation resistance T than the first layer and is designed to be compressible.

This has the advantage that the peelability (strippability) and compressibility properties can be combined in a single layer. In this way, the cost of producing a multi-layer sheet, which has these two properties in the form of separate layers to be produced one after the other, can be reduced. This can reduce the production costs. Further, the multi-layer sheet can be made thinner, since the separate compressible layer can be dispensed with.

The implementation of this property combination is made possible by the design of the intermediate layer. For example, this can be provided with a greater layer thickness on the at least one further layer than in an embodiment in which the intermediate layer is intended essentially to serve only for the peelability or strippability of the regions of the print layer which are to form the depressions or non-image areas. Due to this greater layer thickness, the intermediate layer acts in the areas in where it is not stripped or stripped, ie in the areas of the print template, which are to form the printing elements or image locations of the artwork, compressible. In this way, one and the same layer can perform two functions in the two different areas of the print layer.

The peelability or strippability can be achieved by the measures that have been previously described for this purpose. The compressibility of the interlayer may be e.g. can also be achieved by these measures, i. by a combination of inclusions in an elastomer-containing material or by the material properties of the intermediate layer itself. However, it is also possible to introduce into the intermediate layer materials or elements which serve essentially only for compressibility and not or only insignificantly the peelability or strippability of the intermediate layer influence, in particular only reduce so much that the peelability or strippability is still guaranteed safe.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the vulcanizate of the first layer and / or the intermediate layer is a vulcanized thermoplastic-free rubber mixture containing at least one rubber component as well as mixing ingredients.

In particular, ethylene-propylene rubber (EPM), ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM), nitrile rubber (NBR), (partially) hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR), fluororubber (FKM), chloroprene rubber (CR ), Natural rubber (NR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), isoprene rubber (IR), butyl rubber (IIR), bromobutyl rubber (BIIR), chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR), butadiene rubber (BR), chlorinated polyethylene (CM) , Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CSM), Polyepichlorohydrin (ECO), Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Rubber (EVA), Acrylate Rubber (ACM), Ethylene Acrylate Rubber (AEM), Silicone Rubber (VMQ), Fluorinated Methylsilicone Rubber (MFQ), Perfluorinated Propylene Rubber (FFPM), perfluorocarbon rubber (FFKM) or polyurethane (PU) to be used, wherein the abovementioned rubber types are used without waste or in a blend, in particular in conjunction with one of the aforementioned types of rubber.

1. 1. eine erste Schicht, vorzugsweise Druckschicht eines Drucktuches oder einer Druckplatte,
2. 2. Zwischenschicht, welche beim Abziehen bzw. Strippen der ersten Schicht reißt,
3. 3. kompressible Schicht oder auch Kompressionsschicht, und
4. 4. Festigkeitsträgerschicht, vorzugsweise formstabile Festigkeitsträgerschicht.

The rubber component EPM, EPDM, SBR, BR, CR, NR or NBR is preferably used.
The usual compounding ingredients include at least one crosslinker or crosslinker system (crosslinker and accelerator). Other compounding ingredients are usually still a filler and / or a processing aid and / or a plasticizer and / or an aging inhibitor and optionally further additives (eg color pigments). In this regard, reference is made to the general state of rubber mixing technology.
According to a further aspect of the invention, alternatively to the vulcanized thermoplastic-free rubber mixture, the vulcanizate of the first layer and / or the intermediate layer used is a thermoplastic vulcanizate comprising at least one thermoplastic component, at least one rubber component which is at least partially crosslinked, and mixing ingredients.
Preferred Thermplastkomponente are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polyamide (PA) or polyester (PES). EPDM, EPDM, SBR, BR, CR, NR or NBR, in particular in a blend-free design, can be used in particular as rubber components. With regard to the mixture ingredients, reference is made to the aforementioned mixing technology, as is apparent in particular from the teaching according to the published patent application DE 100 04 632 A1 is known. According to a particularly preferred aspect of the invention, the multilayer sheet according to the invention comprises at least the following layers in the following order, starting from the printing side, starting opposite to the direction A:

1. 1. a first layer, preferably printing layer of a printing blanket or a printing plate,
2. 2. intermediate layer, which tears when removing or stripping the first layer,
3. 3. compressible layer or compression layer, and
4. 4. Reinforcing layer, preferably dimensionally stable reinforcement layer.

In this case, further layers may be provided between the individual layers mentioned above, or may be the lower layer, i. the reinforcement layer, more layers follow. Thus, the lowermost layer may be followed by at least one further compressible layer and a reinforcement layer in this order, or further such combinations of layers.

However, it is preferred that the first layer is peelable or strippable through the intermediate layer directly in contact with the compressible layer and the compressible layer rests directly on the reinforcement layer. Such a structure is advantageous from the said at least four layers, because in this way a multilayer sheet is created, the first layer of which is strippable or stripable and the remaining surface of which is compressively mounted on a reinforcement, preferably a dimensionally stable reinforcement.

• Vulkanisieren einer ersten Schicht, die wenigstens ein Elastomer aufweist in einem ersten Schritt,
• mechanisches Bearbeiten der ersten Schicht zur Erzeugung einer vorgegebenen Schichtdicke in einem weiteren Schritt, und
• Aufbringen der ersten Schicht auf wenigstens einer weiteren Schicht in einem weiteren Schritt,
• wobei die erste Schicht von der wenigstens einen weiteren Schicht abziehbar (strippbar) ist.

The present invention also relates to a process for producing a multilayer sheet for use as a blanket or printing plate for high-pressure, in particular flexographic printing, comprising at least the following steps:

• Vulcanizing a first layer comprising at least one elastomer in a first step,
• mechanically working the first layer to produce a predetermined layer thickness in a further step, and
• Applying the first layer to at least one further layer in a further step,
• wherein the first layer is strippable from the at least one further layer.

This process is based on the finding that the first layer of a multilayer sheet according to the invention is simpler, faster and cheaper can be prepared when the first layer is first vulcanized separately and also the desired layer thickness is brought before it is then applied to at least one further layer, in particular a reinforcement, particularly preferably to a dimensionally stable reinforcement.
Furthermore, dimensionally stable reinforcements such as steel and aluminum sheets in a thickness, as is suitable for the production of printing blankets or printing plates, available only in certain widths. Thus, it is advantageous to bring the first layer of a multilayer sheet separately by mechanical processing such as grinding to the desired thickness (thickness), then bring to the dimensions of the dimensionally stable strength member and only then applied to the dimensionally stable strength member. Tighter tolerances of the layer thickness (layer thickness) can be achieved here than with products on the market.

• Auftragen einer vulkanisierbaren Zwischenschicht auf einer Seite der ersten Schicht und bzw. oder auf einer Seite der weiteren Schicht,
• Zusammenführen der ersten Schicht mit der weiteren Schicht mit ihrer Zwischenschicht bzw. ihren Zwischenschichten, und
• Vulkanisieren des mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes.

According to the invention, the step of applying the first layer to at least one further layer of the method for producing a multilayer sheet comprises the following steps:

• Applying a vulcanizable intermediate layer on one side of the first layer and / or on one side of the further layer,
• Merging the first layer with the further layer with its intermediate layer or intermediate layers, and
• Vulcanization of the multilayer sheet.

The peelability or strippability of the first layer relative to the at least one further layer to be provided in this way is advantageous, because so can be dispensed with adhesives such as adhesives. It is particularly preferred if the intermediate layer and the first layer each have a vulcanizate based on the same elastomer. In both cases, swelling of the intermediate layer compared to adhesives can be prevented or at least reduced.

There are several possibilities available, the intermediate layer between the first layer and the at least one further layer, e.g. a strengthening layer, preferably a dimensionally stable strengthening layer, or a compressible layer may be provided. Thus, only the first layer on one side can be provided with the vulcanizable material of the intermediate layer, e.g. by brushing or spraying. It is also possible to provide only the at least one further layer on one side with the vulcanizable material of the intermediate layer. It is also possible to provide both the first layer on one side and the at least one further layer on one side with the vulcanizable material of the intermediate layer. In all cases, in a further step, the first layer and the at least one further layer are combined with the respective side provided with the vulcanizable material of the intermediate layer and then vulcanized, so that the intermediate layer as a vulcanized intermediate layer between the first layer and the at least one other Layer forms. For this purpose, the first layer and the at least one further layer can be compressed before and / or during vulcanization.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Fig. 2

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem ersten Bearbeitungsschritt;

Fig. 3

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem zweiten Bearbeitungsschritt;

Fig. 4

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem dritten Bearbeitungsschritt;

Fig. 5

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Fig. 6

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß einem dritten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Fig. 7

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß einem vierten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem ersten Bearbeitungsschritt;

Fig. 8

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem vierten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem dritten Bearbeitungsschritt;

Fig. 9

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem ersten Herstellungsschritt;

Fig. 10

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem zweiten Herstellungsschritt;

Fig. 11

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung nach einem dritten Herstellungsschritt; und

Fig. 12

eine schematische Darstellung eines mehrschichtigen Flächengebildes gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung vor einem vierten Herstellungsschritt.

Several embodiments and further advantages of the invention will be explained below in connection with the following figures. It shows:

Fig. 1

a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2

a schematic representation of a multi-layer sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a first processing step;

Fig. 3

a schematic representation of a multi-layer sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a second processing step;

Fig. 4

a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a third processing step;

Fig. 5

a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 6

a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 7

a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention after a first processing step;

Fig. 8

a schematic representation of a multi-layer sheet according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention after a third processing step;

Fig. 9

a schematic representation of a multi-layer sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a first manufacturing step;

Fig. 10

a schematic representation of a multi-layer sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a second manufacturing step;

Fig. 11

a schematic representation of a multi-layer sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a third manufacturing step; and

Fig. 12

a schematic representation of a multi-layer sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention before a fourth manufacturing step.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The multilayer sheet 1 according to the invention, which can preferably be used as printing blanket 1 or printing plate 1 in high-pressure processes, in particular in flexographic printing processes, has at least one first layer 10 and at least one further layer 30, 40.

The first layer 10 is in the direction A perpendicular to the plane of the blanket 1 and the printing plate 1 as the outermost layer of the multilayer sheet 1 and thus also formed as a printing layer 10 of the blanket 1 and the printing plate 1. As such, the surface 11 of the print layer 10 faces the print carrier (not shown) during printing.
The one further layer 30, 40 is preferably formed as a reinforcement layer 40, particularly preferably as a dimensionally stable reinforcement layer 40 and as such may comprise aluminum, sheet steel, PET film or PE film or consist of one of these materials. In this case, the further layer 30, 40 will be considered below as a dimensionally stable reinforcement layer 40, without limiting the invention to this embodiment.
The printing layer 10 and the dimensionally stable reinforcement layer 40 are interconnected according to the invention in such a way that the printing layer 10 can be stripped or stripped from the dimensionally stable reinforcement layer 40.

This can be realized in that the printing blanket 1 or the printing plate 1 according to the first embodiment, an intermediate layer 20 which is formed between the printing layer 10 and the dimensionally stable strength member 40 and this adhesive but peelable (strippable) connects to each other. This adhesive but peelable (strippable) connection between the pressure layer 10 and the dimensionally stable strength member 40 is achieved in the first embodiment of the present invention, characterized in that the intermediate layer 20 comprises a material from which particles 21, which are preferably spherical, at least partially enclosed becomes. These trapped particles 21 reduce the separation resistance T of the intermediate layer 20 with respect to the separation resistance T of the printing layer 10 in such a way that only the intermediate layer 20 ruptures with an attacking tensile force in direction A, but not the printing layer 10.
In this first embodiment, the intermediate layer 20 connects the printing layer 10 directly with the dimensionally stable strength member 40, but embodiments are also possible in which the intermediate layer 20, the printing layer 10 with another layer, eg a compressible layer 30 (cf. Fig. 5 ) but peelable (strippable) connects.

The Fig. 1 at the same time shows a multilayer sheet 1 according to the invention as printing blanket 1 or printing plate 1 for a high-pressure process, in particular a flexographic printing process, before a first processing step for creating a printing original 12, which is to be formed in the form of elevated printing elements 13 or image locations 13 (see. Fig. 2 to 6 ). In this state, the blanket 1 or the printing plate 1 has a flat surface 11 of the printing layer 10 with a predetermined thickness (thickness) and is held over the dimensionally stable reinforcing layer 40, so that the surface 11 of the printing layer 10 can be processed.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a first processing step. In this first processing step for producing a printing original 12, the depressions 14 or non-image areas 14 of the printing original 12 are formed by means of removal, which can be effected for example by a laser or a milling cutter or the like, of which then the increased pressure elements 13 or Lift off image areas 13 of the print original 12.

After this abrading processing, the printing original 12 is surrounded in the plane of the blanket 1 or the printing plate 1 at its outer edge by a circumferential and closed outermost recess 15 or outermost non-image point 15, not the formation of the original 12 but the delineation of the artwork 12 with respect to the surrounding area 17 (cf. Fig. 3 ) of the printing layer 10 is used.

Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a second processing step. In this second processing step for creating a printing original 12, the intermediate layer 20 in the outermost recess 15 or the extreme non-image area 15 is severed by a separating depression 16 or cutting depression 16, so that the printing layer 10 is divided into a region which forms the printing original 12 and a further region which represents the region 17 of the printing layer 10 to be stripped off or stripped.

Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a third processing step. In this third processing step for producing a printing original 12, the region 17 of the printing layer 10 to be removed or stripped is pulled off the dimensionally stable reinforcing member 40. For this purpose, the intermediate layer 20 is provided with a separation resistance T, which is less than that of the printing layer 10 and the dimensionally stable strength member 40, so that the deducted or stripped area 17 of the printing layer 10 of the dimensionally stable reinforcing member 40 as far as possible by traction in the Essentially remove in the direction of A.

In this way remains after that in connection with the Fig. 1 to 4 described processing steps only the area of the printing layer 10 back on the dimensionally stable strength member 40 in which the printing original 12 was formed. According to the invention, the remaining area 17 could be stripped (stripped) easily and quickly from the dimensionally stable strength support 40 instead of having to remove this area in a time-consuming manner by means of laser processing or mechanical processing as well as the desired depressions 14, 15 or non-image areas 14, 15 As a result, a significant simplification of the production of a printing original 12 for high pressure, in particular flexographic printing, achieved with the corresponding advantages of the associated time and cost savings.

Alternatively, the order of the processing steps, as related to the Fig. 1 to 4 are described, according to the invention also run the other way round. In this case, the area 17 is first separated and removed by a separation recess 16 or cutting recess 16 from the area of the printing original 12 to be processed later with the raised printing elements 13 or image locations 13, respectively stripped. Only then does the formation of the elevated printing elements 13 or image locations 13 of the printing original 12 and their depressions 14, 15 or non-image areas 14, 15 take place by the abrading processing.

Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. However, in this second embodiment, the intermediate layer 20 adhesively bonds the print layer 10 to a compressible layer 30, which in turn is adhesively bonded to the dimensionally stable strength support layer 40. In this way, the advantages of a compressible layer 30 can be incorporated into the multilayer sheet 1 according to the invention.

Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In this third embodiment, the print layer 10 is provided with an open fabric 18, preferably a nonwoven fabric 18, to reinforce the material of the print layer 10 against mechanical forces. These can be, for example, the stripping off of the area 17 of the printing layer 10 to be stripped or stripped, the removal of the recesses 14 or non-image areas 14 of the original 12, the outermost recess 15 or the outermost non-image area 15 of the original 12 and the separation recess 16 or cutting recess 16 of the outermost recess 15 occur, for example by milling or in the mechanical processing of the printing layer 10 by, for example, loops, to bring the printing layer 10 to the desired layer thickness.

Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention after a first processing step. The multilayer sheet 1 of the invention according to the fourth exemplary embodiment, which can preferably be used as printing blanket 1 or printing plate 1 in high-pressure processes, in particular in flexographic printing processes, has at least a first layer 10, a compressible intermediate layer 20 and at least one further layer 30, 40 (cf. , Fig. 1 ). This corresponds to this first Processing step the first processing step of the first embodiment, ie the Fig. 7 shows the blanket 1 or the printing plate 1 before a first processing step for creating a print template 12, which is to be formed in the form of elevated printing elements 13 and image locations 13 (see. Fig. 2 to 6 ).

The peelability or strippability is also effected in the multilayer sheet 1 according to the fourth embodiment by the intermediate layer 20 by means of the particles 21 enclosed in the material of the intermediate layer 20. In this case, the intermediate layer 20 is designed to achieve a compressible effect significantly larger dimensioned in the direction A, that is provided with a greater layer thickness, as in the first to third embodiment. Owing to this greater layer thickness, in the area of the printing layer 10 in which the printing original 12 is formed in the form of elevated printing elements 13 or image sites 13, a compressible effect can be achieved by the intermediate layer 20 without having to provide a separate compressible layer 30, as with respect to the second embodiment in the Fig. 5 described.

Here, the larger layer thickness of the intermediate layer 20 in the Fig. 7 schematically indicated by the fact that the enclosed particles 21 are arranged in three horizontal rows. In the real embodiment, however, the entrapped particles 21 will rather randomly disperse and dispose in the material of the intermediate layer 20.

Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention after a third processing step. In this case, this third processing step corresponds to the third processing step of the first embodiment according to FIG Fig. 4 , ie the Fig. 8 shows a multi-layer sheet 1, in which the deducted or to be stripped region 17 of the printing layer 10 has been deducted from the dimensionally stable strength member 40. The region of the intermediate layer 20, which is located in the direction A below the printing original 12, acts in this case as a compressible layer 30 (see. Fig. 5 ).

Here is in the Fig. 8 shown schematically that it is due to the comparatively large layer thickness of the intermediate layer 20 to achieve a compressible effect in the region of the printing original 12 in the surrounding area 17 (see. Fig. 3 ) of the printing layer 10 for the formation of residues of the intermediate layer 20 in the form of projecting in direction A material residues 22 may come, in which also particles 21 may be included. Such a formation of the surface of the stripped intermediate layer 20 in the surrounding area 17 may also occur in the first to third embodiments, but is in the corresponding 4 to 6 not shown schematically for the sake of clarity. In this case, the projecting material residues 22 in all embodiments in the direction A are designed to be so small that they do not affect the printing original 12, ie do not act as elevated printing elements 13 or image point 13.

Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a first manufacturing step. In this first manufacturing step, the material of the first layer 10, which can form the print layer 10 of a blanket 1 or a printing plate 10, is applied to a surface (not shown) and vulcanized. The vulcanized printing layer 10 may be removed therefrom or after a subsequent processing step from the surface. On its top 11, in the representation of the Fig. 9 aligned in the direction A, the printing layer 10 may have at least slight bumps.

Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a second manufacturing step. In this second production step, the uneven surface 11 of the printing layer 11 has been processed in order to obtain as flat a surface 11 as possible of the printing layer 10 with a desired layer thickness. In this case, a flat surface 11 is to be understood as meaning a surface 11 of the printing layer 10 which has only elevations, points, ripples and the like to such a small extent that the formation or differentiation of increased form takes place Print elements 13 and image locations 13 of the printing original 12 and depressions 14 or non-image areas 14 of the printing original 12 is not disturbed or impaired by this. The machining can be done mechanically, for example by grinding, brushing, polishing or finishing.

Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention after a third manufacturing step. In this third production step, an intermediate layer 20 was applied to the side of the printing layer 10, which lies opposite the upper side 11 of the printing layer 10 in the direction A and thus forms the underside of the printing layer 10. In this embodiment, this intermediate layer 20 has a material from which particles 21, which are preferably spherical, are at least partially enclosed. These trapped particles 21 reduce the separation resistance T of the intermediate layer 20 with respect to the separation resistance T of the printing layer 10 in such a way that only the intermediate layer 20 ruptures with an attacking tensile force in direction A, but not the printing layer 10.

While in the Fig. 11 only an application of the material of the intermediate layer 20 is shown on the underside of the printing layer 10, it is also possible according to the invention to apply the material of the intermediate layer 20 instead on the aligned in the direction A side of that further layer 30, 40 of the multilayer sheet 1, with the printing layer 10 is to be connected by the intermediate layer 20. Likewise, the material of the intermediate layer 20 can also be applied both to the underside of the printing layer 10 and to the side of the further layer 30, 40 aligned in direction A. The latter can take place in the form of uniform or differently thick applications on the respective surfaces of the layers 10, 30, 40.

Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of a multilayer sheet 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention prior to a fourth manufacturing step. In this following fourth manufacturing step, the two are now Layers 10, 40, which are to be connected by means of the intermediate layer 20 adhering to each other but peelable or strippable, compressed in the direction A by means of a contact force F and vulcanized fixed in this state. In this vulcanization step, the full-surface crosslinking of the material of the intermediate layer 20 takes place. As a result of this fifth production step, the vulcanization, the multilayer sheet 1 of the blanket 1 or the printing plate 1 according to the Fig. 1 out.

Alternatively, for the manufacturing steps one to five of Fig. 9 to 12 instead of the multilayer sheet 1 of the first embodiment, those of the second and third embodiments may be used.

Thus, in order to produce a multilayer sheet 1 of the second embodiment, a compressible layer 30 is to be used in the fourth production step instead of the dimensionally stable reinforcement layer 40, which in turn can then be connected in further production steps, for example by gluing or likewise vulcanizing with, for example, a dimensionally stable reinforcement layer 40 , In this way, after vulcanization according to the Fig. 9 produces a multilayer sheet 1, as shown in the Fig. 5 is shown after a machining process.

Furthermore, in order to produce a multilayer sheet 1 of the third embodiment, in the first production step, the open fabric 18, preferably the nonwoven fabric 18, is to be embedded in the material to be vulcanized of the printing layer 10 in order to cure after vulcanization Fig. 9 To obtain a multilayer sheet 1, as shown in the Fig. 6 is shown after a machining process.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS (Part of the description)

A

Direction perpendicular to the plane of the multilayer sheet 1

F

Contact force in the direction of A

1

multilayer sheet, preferably blanket or printing plate

10

print layer

11

Surface of the print layer 10, facing the print carrier during printing

12

Artwork or printing relief of the print layer 10

13

Increases trained printing elements or image locations of the printing original 12th

14

Depressions or non-image areas of the print original 12

15

outermost depression or outermost non-image location of the print original 12

16

Separation depression or cutting recess of the outermost depression 15

17

area of the printing layer 10 to be peeled or stripped

18

open textile fabric, preferably nonwoven fabric

20

interlayer

21

Particles, in particular hollow spheres or polystyrene balls

22

protruding material residues of the intermediate layer 20

30

compressible layer, compression layer

40

further layer, in particular reinforcement layer, preferably dimensionally stable reinforcement layer

Claims (10)

1. Multilayer sheet (1) for use as printing blanket or printing plate for relief printing, in particular flexographic printing, with
   a first layer (10) which comprises a vulcanizate based on at least one elastomer,
   at least one further layer (30, 40), and
   an intermediate layer (20) which is arranged between the first layer (10) and the further layer (30, 40),
   characterized in that
   the intermediate layer (20) has a smaller separation resistance T than the first layer (10), and therefore the adhesion between the first layer (10) and the further layer (30, 40) is such that the first layer (10) is peelable from the further layer (30, 40),
   where the further layer (30, 40) and/or the intermediate layer (20) comprises a vulcanizate based on at least one elastomer, and
   where the vulcanizate not only of the first layer (10) but also of the further layer (30, 40), and/or of the intermediate layer (20) can be ablated by a laser, preferably a carbon dioxide laser, a fiber laser, or a diode laser.
2. Multilayer sheet (1) according to Claim 1,
   where both the first layer (10) and the further layer (30, 40), and/or the intermediate layer (20) respectively comprise a vulcanizate based on the same elastomer.
3. Multilayer sheet (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, where the intermediate layer (20) comprises particles (21) which are at least to some extent enclosed by the material of the intermediate layer (20) .
4. Multilayer sheet (1) according to Claim 3,
   where the particles (21) of the intermediate layer (20) are at least to some extent spherical.
5. Multilayer sheet (1) according to any of the preceding claims,
   where the further layer (30, 40) takes the form of reinforcing layer (40), preferably dimensionally stable reinforcing layer (40).
6. Multilayer sheet (1) according to any of the preceding claims,
   where there is a compressible layer (30) arranged between the first layer (10) and the further layer (40), preferably between the intermediate layer (20) and the further layer (40).
7. Multilayer sheet (1) according to any of the preceding claims,
   where the first layer (10) comprises a textile sheet (18), preferably an open textile sheet (18), particularly preferably a nonwoven material (18).
8. Multilayer sheet (1) according to any of the preceding claims,
   where at least one layer (10, 20, 30, 40) comprises a magnetic or magnetizable material.
9. Multilayer sheet (1) according to any of the preceding claims,
   where the intermediate layer (20) has a smaller separation resistance T than the first layer (10) and is compressible.
10. Process for the production of a multilayer sheet (1) for use as printing blanket or printing plate for relief printing, in particular flexographic printing, with at least the following steps:

    vulcanization of a first layer (10), which comprises at least one elastomer, in a first step, mechanical operations on the first layer (10) to produce a prescribed layer thickness, in a further step,

    production of a further layer (30, 40) in a further step,

    application of a vulcanizable intermediate layer (20) on one side of the first layer (10) and/or on one side of the further layer (30, 40) in a further step,

    combining the first layer (10) with the further layer (30, 40) with intermediate layer(s) (20) thereof in a further step,

    vulcanization of the multilayer sheet (1), where the intermediate layer (20) has a smaller separation resistance T than the first layer (10), and therefore the adhesion between the first layer (10) and the further layer (30, 40) is such that the first layer (10) is peelable from the further layer (30, 40),

    where the further layer (30, 40) and/or the intermediate layer (20) comprises a vulcanizate based on at least one elastomer, and

    where the vulcanizate not only of the first layer (10) but also of the further layer (30, 40), and/or of the intermediate layer (20) can be ablated by a laser, preferably a carbon dioxide laser, a fiber laser, or a diode laser.

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