Processing device and processing method

Abstract

The present invention provides a processing apparatus and a processing method that can easily reuse the used rinsing liquid and reduce the amount of waste liquid. The processing apparatus includes: a developing unit that has a developing unit for developing by removing the unexposed portion of a flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure using a developer containing a cleaning liquid; a rinsing unit that has a rinsing liquid supply unit for supplying a rinsing liquid containing substantially only water as a component to at least the surface of the developed flexographic printing plate original from which the unexposed portion has been removed; a developer storage unit that has a developer storage tank for storing the developer used for developing in the developing unit; a first liquid supply path that transports the developed developer to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit; and a second liquid supply path that transports the rinsing liquid after being supplied in the rinsing unit to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit and is different from the first liquid supply path. In the developing unit, the developer stored in the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit is repeatedly used for developing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing apparatus and a processing method for supplying a rinsing liquid containing substantially only water as a component to at least the surface of a flexographic printing plate after development of a flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure, and more particularly to a processing apparatus and a processing method for recycling a used rinsing liquid for development. Background Art

[0002] Various methods are known as a method for developing a printing plate using a photosensitive resin plate. For example, a developer containing a surfactant is injected into a photosensitive resin plate after imagewise exposure, and brushing is performed. Development is performed by washing out an uncured resin or the like as an unexposed portion in the photosensitive resin plate after imagewise exposure. After development, a rinsing process is performed to remove the treatment liquid containing the surfactant and the uncured resin or the like attached to the plate. The rinsing process is a step of using washing water such as tap water that does not contain solid components or surfactants as a rinsing liquid to wash away the developer and the uncured resin or the like on the developed plate. When the rinsing liquid after the rinsing process is mixed into the developer, the concentration of the surfactant and the concentration of the chelating agent in the developer are reduced, and therefore it is discarded so as not to be mixed with the developer.

[0003] On the other hand, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a developing apparatus for a photosensitive printing original plate, which has a brush that slidably contacts the surface of a photosensitive plate and relatively moves with respect to the photosensitive plate. In the developing apparatus for a photosensitive printing original plate of Patent Document 1, a developer is supplied, the unexposed pattern portion is slidably contacted with the brush for development, and then a rinsing liquid is used to wash away the scraping chips remaining on the upper surface of the photosensitive plate after the developing process. The developer and the rinsing liquid after the developing process are recovered by a hopper and returned to the developer storage tank through a bag filter for reuse. In Patent Document 1, the developer is regenerated by a developer regeneration mechanism, and a developer replenishing mechanism is provided for measuring the concentration of the regenerated developer, calculating the amount of the developer to be replenished based on the difference between the measured value and the set value, and adjusting the concentration of the developer to an appropriate value.

[0004] Prior Art Documents

[0005] Patent Documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-123722 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] In Patent Document 1, the developer after development and the used rinsing liquid are recovered by one hopper, but it has a structure provided with a developer regeneration mechanism, and the device structure is complicated. Therefore, the reuse of the developer and the rinsing liquid is not easy.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to eliminate the problems based on the aforementioned prior art, and to provide a processing apparatus and a processing method that can easily reuse the used rinsing liquid and can reduce the amount of waste liquid.

[0010] Means for Solving the Technical Problem

[0011] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a processing apparatus having: a developing unit including a developing unit that develops by removing an unexposed portion of a flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure using a developer containing a cleaning liquid; a rinsing unit including a rinsing liquid supply unit that supplies a rinsing liquid containing substantially only water to at least the surface of the developed flexographic printing plate original from which the unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate original has been removed; a developer storage unit having a developer storage tank for storing a developer for development in the developing unit; a first liquid supply path that transports the developed developer to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit; and a second liquid supply path that transports the rinsing liquid after being supplied in the rinsing unit to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit and is different from the first liquid supply path, and the developing unit repeatedly uses the developer stored in the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit for development.

[0012] Preferably, it has a developer replenishing unit that replenishes a developer having a higher chelating agent concentration than the developer stored in the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit as a developer replenishing liquid to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit.

[0013] Preferably, the amount of the developer replenishing liquid replenished to the developer storage tank through the developer replenishing unit is determined according to the amount of the rinsing liquid transported to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit.

[0014] Preferably, the ratio of the amount of the rinsing liquid transported to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit to the amount of the developer replenishing liquid is constant.

[0015] Preferably, the total amount of the rinsing liquid and the developer replenishing liquid transported to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit is 10 to 30 L / m with respect to the area of the developed flexographic printing plate original. 2 .

[0016] Preferably, it has a control unit that detects the timing of supplying the rinsing liquid to the flexographic printing plate original, and after supplying the rinsing liquid, supplies the developer replenishing liquid to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit through the developer replenishing unit.

[0017] Preferably, it has a transport unit for transporting the flexographic printing plate original, and the rinsing unit is provided on the downstream side in the transport direction of the flexographic printing plate original of the developing unit.

[0018] A processing method is provided, which has: a developing step of developing by removing an unexposed portion of a flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure using a developer containing a cleaning liquid; and a rinsing step of supplying a rinsing liquid containing substantially only water as a component to at least the surface of the developed flexographic printing plate original from which the unexposed portion has been removed; the developer for developing is transported to a developer storage tank via a first liquid supply path, and the rinsing liquid after being supplied in the rinsing step is transported to the developer storage tank via a second liquid supply path different from the first liquid supply path, and in the developing step, the developer stored in the developer storage tank is repeatedly used for developing.

[0019] Preferably, there is a step of supplementing the developer storage tank with a developer replenishing liquid having a higher chelating agent concentration than the developer stored in the developer storage tank.

[0020] Preferably, the amount of the developer replenishing liquid supplemented to the developer storage tank is determined according to the amount of the rinsing liquid.

[0021] Preferably, the ratio of the amount of the rinsing liquid transported to the developer storage tank to the amount of the developer replenishing liquid is constant.

[0022] Preferably, the total amount of the rinsing liquid and the developer replenishing liquid transported to the developer storage tank is 10 to 30 L / m² with respect to the area of the developed flexographic printing plate original. 2 。

[0023] Preferably, the timing of supplying the rinsing liquid to the flexographic printing plate original is detected, and after the rinsing liquid is supplied, the developer replenishing liquid is supplied to the developer storage tank.

[0024] Preferably, the flexographic printing plate original is transported along a transport path, and the developing step and the rinsing step are carried out.

[0025] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0026] According to the processing apparatus and the processing method of the present invention, the used rinsing liquid can be easily reused, and the amount of waste liquid can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 FIG. is a schematic view showing an example of a processing system of a processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2 FIG. is a schematic view showing a first example of a processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 3 FIG. is a schematic view showing a developer storage portion of a processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 4It is a graph showing the change in the detergent concentration of the developer solution.

[0031] Figure 5 It is a graph showing the change in the solid component concentration of the developer solution.

[0032] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Embodiments

[0033] Hereinafter, the processing apparatus and the processing method of the present invention will be described in detail according to the preferred embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0034] In addition, the drawings described below are illustrative drawings for explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the drawings shown below.

[0035] In addition, "~" indicating a numerical range below includes the numerical values described on both sides. For example, ε being the numerical value α~numerical value β means that the range of ε is the range including the numerical values α and β, and in mathematical notation, it is α ≤ ε ≤ β.

[0036] Unless otherwise specified, angles such as "vertical" include the error ranges generally allowed in the corresponding technical fields.

[0037] (Processing System)

[0038] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of a processing system having the processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 1 The shown processing system 10 has a processing apparatus 40. The processing system 10 has an exposure unit 12, a developing unit 14, a rinsing unit 15, a developer solution storage unit 16, a developer solution supply unit 18, a developer solution replenishment unit 20, a measurement unit 22, a pump 24, a filter 25, a heater 26, a switching valve 27, a valve 28, a waste liquid tank 29, and a control unit 30.

[0040] Each structural part of the processing system 10 controls operations and the like through the control unit 30. In the processing system 10, the structure excluding the exposure unit 12 is the processing apparatus 40. That is, in the processing system 10, the structure without the exposure unit 12 is the processing apparatus 40.

[0041] The developing unit 14 is connected to the developer solution storage unit 16 via the first liquid supply path 31, and transports the developer solution to the developer solution storage tank 16a of the developer solution storage unit 16 (refer to Figure 2 ). The rinsing unit 15 is connected to the developer solution storage unit 16 via the second liquid supply path 32. For example, the rinsing liquid is transported to the developer solution storage tank 16a of the developer solution storage unit 16. The first liquid supply path 31 and the second liquid supply path 32 are constituted by, for example, conduits.

[0042] The developer storage unit 16 is connected to the developing unit 14 via a connection pipe 34. A pump 24, a filter 25, a heater 26, and a switching valve 27 are provided on the connection pipe 34 in this order from the side close to the developer storage unit 16.

[0043] The pump 24 transports the developer to the developing unit 14. The structure of the pump 24 is not particularly limited as long as it can transport the developer.

[0044] The filter 25 removes solid substances (not shown) in the developed developer Q, and the concentration of the solid substances can be reduced by the filter 25. The filter 25 is not particularly limited as long as it can separate the solid substances contained in the solid substances (not shown) in the developed developer Q, and can be appropriately determined according to the size of the separated solid substances. For example, a ceramic filter is used. Regarding the filter 25, for example, a filter capable of separating solid substances with a particle size of 1 μm or less is preferably used.

[0045] The heater 26 is used to adjust the liquid temperature of the liquid supplied to the developing unit 14. The structure of the heater 26 is not particularly limited as long as it can adjust the liquid temperature to a preset temperature. As the heater 26, for example, an in-line heater with a heating element provided inside the connection pipe 34 is used. In addition, the heater 26 is not essential, and the structure may be one without the heater 26.

[0046] The switching valve 27 switches the supply path of the developer. The switching valve 27 is connected to the developing unit 14 and the developer storage unit 16. The switching valve 27 is connected to the developer storage unit 16 via a connection pipe 36. The developer can be supplied to the developing unit 14 through the switching valve 27, and the developer can be returned to the developer storage unit 16. The switching valve 27 is connected to the control unit 30, and can control the opening and closing of the switching valve 27 and change the supply destination of the developer. The switching valve 27 uses a three-way valve, for example.

[0047] The rinsing unit 15 includes a rinsing liquid supply unit 44 that supplies a rinsing liquid containing substantially only water as a component (refer to Figure 2 ).

[0048] The developer replenishing unit 20 is connected to the developer storage unit 16 via a connection pipe 33. The developer replenishing unit 20 supplies a developer with a higher concentration of chelating agent than that of the developer stored in the developer storage tank 16a of the developer storage unit 16 (refer to Figure 2 ) to the developer storage unit 16 as a developer replenishing liquid.

[0049] The measuring unit 22 is connected to the developer storage unit 16 via the connecting pipe 35. The measuring unit 22 measures the solid content concentration of the developer. In the measuring unit 22, a set amount of the developer, for example, 10 g, is taken in an aluminum container and dried, for example, under the condition of 95 °C for 12 hours. After drying, the solid content concentration of the developer is obtained by measuring the mass of the residue.

[0050] In addition, the solid content concentration refers to the concentration of the solid substance generated by removing the unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure.

[0051] In the processing device 40, as long as the solid content concentration of the developer can be obtained, the measuring unit 22 is not necessarily required.

[0052] The exposure unit 12 exposes the flexographic printing plate original. The flexographic printing plate original becomes the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure by the exposure unit 12. The surface of the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure becomes the printing surface.

[0053] As long as the exposure unit 12 can expose the flexographic printing plate original, its structure is not particularly limited. For the exposure unit 12, a known device capable of exposing the flexographic printing plate original can be appropriately used.

[0054] The developing unit 14 develops the exposed flexographic printing plate original and conveys the flexographic printing plate original exposed by the exposure unit 12.

[0055] The developing unit 14 develops the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure, for example, using a developer containing a cleaning solution. As long as the developing unit 14 can develop the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure, its structure is not particularly limited. As the developing unit 14, a known device using an aqueous developer can be appropriately used. The developing unit 14 may have a structure called a clamshell type in which the flexographic printing plate original is developed in batches, or a conveyor type structure in which the flexographic printing plate original is developed while being conveyed. And, it may be a method of developing after immersing the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure. In addition, in the case of the clamshell type, the developing unit 14 and the rinsing unit 15 are integrated.

[0056] The developer containing a cleaning solution means that it contains, in addition to the cleaning solution, for example, a rinsing solution or a developer replenishing solution. The rinsing solution and the developer replenishing solution will be described later. And, the cleaning solution is, for example, an aqueous developer having water as the main component.

[0057] The developer storage unit 16 has a developer storage tank 16a for storing the developer (refer to Figure 2 )). The developer after development in the tank is transported to the developer storage tank 16a through the first liquid supply path 31 (refer to Figure 2)。Moreover, the developing solution used in the rinsing unit 15 is conveyed by the second liquid supply path 32. The rinsing unit 15 is not limited to conveying the used rinsing liquid to the developing solution storage unit 16, and may be configured to convey it to the developing solution replenishing tank 16b (refer to Figure 2 ) or the developing solution replenishing unit 20.

[0058] Also, the developing solution that has passed through the filter 25 and the heater 26 from the developing solution storage tank 16a can be conveyed to the developing solution storage tank 16a via the switching valve 27 through the connecting pipe 36.

[0059] The waste liquid tank 29 stores the liquid discarded from the inside of the developing solution storage tank 16a of the developing solution storage unit 16, for example, stores the developing solution that has become unsuitable for development. The valve 28 is opened to discharge the developing solution in the developing solution storage unit 16 to the waste liquid tank 29. Regarding whether the developing solution is suitable for development, the measurement result of the measuring unit 22 can be used, and it can also be based on the development processing area of the flexographic printing plate original.

[0060] The developing solution supply unit 18 includes a developing solution storage unit 16, a pump 24, a filter 25, a heater 26, and a switching valve 27. The developing solution is supplied from the developing solution storage unit 16 storing the developing solution to the developing unit 14. In addition, the developing solution supply unit 18 preferably has a flow meter. For example, when the pump 24 has a function of measuring the delivery volume, a flow meter is not required.

[0061] Next, Figure 2 and Figure 3 will be used to more specifically describe the processing device 40.

[0062] (First example of the processing device)

[0063] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the first example of the processing device according to the embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the developing solution storage unit of the processing device according to the embodiment of the present invention. In addition, in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the same reference numerals are given to the structures identical to those of the processing system shown in Figure 1 , and their detailed descriptions are omitted. And in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the illustration of the control unit 30 is omitted.

[0064] In Figure 2 the shown processing device 40, the developing unit 14 includes a developing unit 42 that develops the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure by removing the unexposed portion using the developing solution Q containing a cleaning solution.

[0065] The developing unit 42 is disposed in the developing tank 46. The developing unit 42 has a plurality of brushes 43.

[0066] A plurality of conveying rollers 47 are provided in the developing tank 46. A support 49 for supporting the flexographic printing plate original 50 is provided between the conveying rollers 47. Brushes 43 are respectively arranged on each support 49.

[0067] Moreover, a table 48 for placing the flexographic printing plate original 50 is provided adjacent to the developing tank 46. The flexographic printing plate original 50 is sent from the table 48 to the conveying rollers 47, and the flexographic printing plate original 50 is conveyed in the conveying direction D by the conveying rollers 47. Also, the flexographic printing plate original 50 is conveyed in the direction opposite to the conveying direction D by the conveying rollers 47.

[0068] The plurality of brushes 43 rotate relative to the rotation shaft 43a by a driving unit (not shown). Moreover, during development, the developing solution Q is supplied to the brushes 43 via the rotation shaft 43a. The developing solution Q is supplied from the brushes 43 to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0069] The surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50 is scraped by the plurality of brushes 43 to remove the unexposed portion (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate original 50 and perform development. The developed developing solution Q accumulates in the developing tank 46 and is conveyed to the developing solution storage tank 16a of the developing solution storage unit 16 through the first liquid supply path 31 and stored.

[0070] The brush 43 uses, for example, a brush in which hairs are planted perpendicular to the base. In this structure, the hairs of the brush 43 are substantially perpendicular to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50. In addition, the structure of the brush 43 is not particularly limited.

[0071] Moreover, the material of the hairs of the brush 43 is not particularly limited. For example, nylon 6,6, nylon 610, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc., which are well-known materials used in the development of the flexographic printing plate original 50, can be appropriately used.

[0072] In addition, the brush 43 can be stationary, that is, fixed, relative to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and can also be a structure that moves relative to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50. In this case, the movement of the brush 43 is not particularly limited, and can be any one of rotation, reciprocation, or a combination of rotation and reciprocation.

[0073] When the brush 43 moves, the brush 43 can always move during development, or can move only when the flexographic printing plate original 50 is conveyed to the developing tank 46. In this case, for example, a sensor (not shown) for detecting the flexographic printing plate original 50 can be provided on the conveying roller 47 through which the flexographic printing plate original 50 first passes, and the movement timing and conveying speed of the flexographic printing plate original 50 can be used to determine the time to reach the brush 43, and the brush 43 is moved for development.

[0074] The rinsing unit 15 has a rinsing liquid supply unit 44 that supplies a rinsing liquid. The rinsing liquid supply unit 44 has, for example, a nozzle 45, a rinsing liquid storage unit (not shown), and a pump (not shown), and supplies the rinsing liquid from the nozzle 45 to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0075] The rinsing liquid is a liquid that substantially contains only water as a component, and for example, fresh water, tap water, industrial water, groundwater, etc. can be used. In addition, substantially only water means that as a component of the rinsing liquid, water is 99.50 mass% or more, preferably water exceeds 99.99 mass%, and most preferably it is only water.

[0076] The rinsing unit 15 supplies the rinsing liquid from the rinsing liquid supply unit 44 to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and uses the rinsing liquid to remove residues such as latex components and rubber components remaining on the surface 50a of the developed flexographic printing plate original 50. The rinsed rinsing liquid accumulates in the developing tank 46 and is transported to the developing liquid storage tank 16a of the developing liquid storage unit 16 via the second liquid supply path 32 for storage. And, for example, in the control unit 30 (reference Figure 1 ), the timing when the flexographic printing plate original 50 passes by the brush 43 on the side of the passing table 48 is detected by a sensor (not shown) for the flexographic printing plate original 50, and the rinsing liquid is supplied from the rinsing liquid supply unit 44 of the rinsing unit 15 via the nozzle 45 to at least the surface 50a of the developed flexographic printing plate original 50 from which the unexposed portion has been removed.

[0077] The developing liquid storage unit 16 has a developing liquid storage tank 16a and a developing liquid replenishing tank 16b. As Figure 3 shown, a developing liquid Q containing a cleaning liquid is stored in the developing liquid storage tank 16a. The developing liquid Q is supplied to the developing unit 42 and developed by the brush 43. The developing liquid Q in the developing liquid storage tank 16a is reused. In addition, the used rinsing liquid is, for example, transported to the developing liquid storage tank 16a for storage. If the rinsing liquid is mixed in the developing liquid Q, the rinsing liquid substantially contains only water as a component as described above. If the developing liquid Q contains the used rinsing liquid, the concentration of the components of the developing liquid Q decreases. Therefore, in order to reuse the rinsing liquid, it is necessary to maintain the components of the developing liquid Q at a set concentration, and the developing replenishing liquid Qb is added to the developing liquid. In the developing liquid replenishing tank 16b, the above-mentioned developing replenishing liquid Qb is transported and stored from the developing liquid replenishing unit 20 (reference Figure 1 ). The developing replenishing liquid Qb is transferred from the developing liquid replenishing tank 16b to the developing liquid storage tank 16a, and the developing liquid Q containing the rinsing liquid is mixed with the developing replenishing liquid Qb. There is a liquid supply unit (not shown) such as a pump that transports the liquid such as the developing replenishing liquid in the developing liquid replenishing tank 16b to the developing liquid storage tank 16a.

[0078] For example, by specifying the amount of the rinsing liquid and the amount of the developing replenishing liquid per unit area of the flexographic printing plate original, asFigure 4 The characteristic curve 60 shown can keep the detergent concentration of the developer Q constant. For example, the rinsing solution is set to 6.4 L / m 2 , and the developer replenisher is set to 7.6 L / m 2 . The rinsing solution substantially contains only water as a component, and the detergent concentration is 0% by mass. The detergent concentration of the developer replenisher is 1.1% by mass. The amount of the developer replenisher is 14 L / m 2 , and the detergent concentration is 0.59% by mass. With respect to the area of the flexographic printing plate original 50, the developer replenishment amount is set to 14 L / m 2 , so that the detergent concentration (% by mass) can be kept constant, for example, the detergent concentration is 0.5% by mass. In addition, the detergent is a detergent that helps development among the components of the developer, and is an alkali agent, a chelating agent, a surfactant, or a mixture thereof.

[0079] If a rinsing process is performed in the processing step and the flexographic printing plate original 50 is cleaned, the rinsing solution flows into the developer storage tank 16a. From this time on, since the concentration of the developer in the developer storage tank 16a starts to decrease, when the rinsing unit 15 is operated by the control unit 30, the rinsing solution is delivered to the developer storage tank 16a. At this time, the developer replenishment unit 20 is operated by the control unit 30, and the developer replenisher Qb having a chelating agent concentration higher than that of the developer Q is delivered to the developer replenishment tank 16b, and the developer replenisher Qb is transferred from the developer replenishment tank 16b to the developer storage tank 16a, so that the detergent concentration of the developer Q can be stably maintained. In addition, the rinsing solution can be delivered to the developer replenishment tank 16b and transferred to the developer storage tank 16a in a state of being mixed with the developer replenisher Qb.

[0080] In the processing apparatus 40, there is evaporation of the developer corresponding to the structure of the developer storage unit 16, so water in an amount corresponding to the corrected evaporation amount is required. The total amount of the rinsing solution and the developer replenisher is the total amount when separately replenishing the evaporation amount. If there is evaporation of the developer, it is the value obtained by dividing the amount obtained by subtracting the evaporation amount in one day from the total amount of the rinsing solution and the developer replenisher amount in one day by the plate area processed in one day.

[0081] For example, in the case of processing 20 plates with an area of 0.48 m 2 of the flexographic printing plate original in one day, the processing amount becomes 9.6 m 2 / day. Here, it is assumed that 200 liters of developer that has not been used for development is stored in the developer storage tank 16a. When the evaporation rate of the developer is 16.1 L / day, the feeding rate of the rinsing liquid after use is 66 L / day, and the amount of the developer replenishing liquid is 74 L / day, regarding the balance of the developer storage tank 16a, when the amount of the waste liquid is set to X liters / day, it is 66 + 74 = X + 16.1, and the amount of the waste liquid X becomes X = 123.9 L / day. The amount of the waste liquid is converted to 12.9 L / m per unit area 2 . Compared with the case of discarding all 200 L of the waste developer, the amount of the waste liquid can be reduced.

[0082] Even if the flexographic printing plate original with an area of 0.48 m 2 is processed 20 plates per day for 35 consecutive days, the solid content concentration in the developer storage tank 16a remains stable, maintaining about 4% by mass, and no residue is generated, enabling stable processing.

[0083] For example, when the solid content concentration of the developer in the developer storage tank 16a exceeds the set concentration or when the entire amount is discarded at the time point of the processed area of 50 of the set flexographic printing plate original, the amount of the waste liquid increases. And according to each processed area of the set flexographic printing plate original 50, after discarding the developer, the developer storage tank 16a needs to be cleaned. In the case of discarding the entire amount, the maintainability is poor, and the operating rate of the processing device also decreases.

[0084] For example, when the solid content concentration of the developer is 5% by mass and the developer is replaced, as Figure 5 shown, in the characteristic line 62 showing the change in the conventional solid content concentration (mass%), the developer is replaced after reaching the developer replacement period 62a. In the initial period 62b, the solid content concentration is low. On the other hand, in the processing device, for example, if the developer is not replaced, as in the characteristic curve 64 of the solid content concentration of the developer, the solid content concentration will not reach 5%, and the solid content concentration will not reach a certain value or more. If the solid content concentration exceeds 5% by mass, substances precipitated from the photosensitive layer will adhere to the plate surface, such as so-called white scum, and the processing quality will decline. Therefore, the replacement is carried out at the time point when the solid content concentration is 5% by mass. Therefore, it is necessary to set the amounts of the developer replenishing liquid and the rinsing water recycling liquid so that the equilibrium concentration of the solid content concentration of the developer can be maintained below 5% by mass, preferably below 4% by mass.

[0085] Without replenishment, as shown by the characteristic line 62, the concentration of the solid components of the developer solution increases but remains unsaturated. The developer solution is replaced with a new solution within the concentration range where the processing quality does not deteriorate, and thus it is necessary to maintain the processing quality. For every certain amount of processing, a complicated solution replacement operation is required, during which the processing apparatus 40 cannot be operated, and the operating rate of the processing apparatus 40 decreases. Also, a large amount of waste liquid is generated, including the in-machine cleaning water accompanying the solution replacement.

[0086] (Second Example of Processing Apparatus)

[0087] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 6 for structures identical to those of the Figure 1 shown processing system 10, the same reference numerals are used, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0088] Figure 6 The processing apparatus 40a shown in Figure 6 develops the flexographic printing plate original 50 after imagewise exposure on the surface 50a using the developer solution Q. The process of developing using the above-mentioned developer solution Q is referred to as the developing process. Additionally,

[0089] As described later, the flexographic printing plate original 50 has a thickness of about several millimeters and has flexibility such that it can be conveyed in a bent manner within the developing tank 71. Also, the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50 is imagewise exposed using the exposure unit 12 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0090] In the processing apparatus 40a, the imagewise exposed flexographic printing plate original 50, which is in a state of being immersed in the developer solution Q and having been conveyed, has its unexposed portion (not shown) removed from the flexographic printing plate original 50 for development. The processing apparatus 40a is a single-sheet type apparatus that develops while conveying the flexographic printing plate original 50, rather than developing through batch processing.

[0091] The processing apparatus 40a includes a developing section 14 and a rinsing section 15. The developing section 14 and the rinsing section 15 are, for example, arranged side by side within a single frame 70. The developing section 14 is disposed on the inlet 71a side of the frame 70, and the rinsing section 15 is disposed on the outlet 71b side of the frame 70.

[0092] The developing tank 71 and the rinsing tank 73 are adjacently arranged, and the rinsing tank 73 is formed such that the side wall 73b is higher than the liquid level of the developer solution Q in the developing tank 71 to prevent the developer solution in the developing tank 71 from entering the rinsing tank 73.

[0093] The developing section 14 of the processing device 40a has a developing tank 71 and a conveying section 72 that conveys the flexographic printing plate original 50 on a conveying path Dp including a curved conveying path Db. The developing tank 71 is a container that stores the developing solution Q therein.

[0094] In the processing device 40a, there is a conveying section 72 that conveys the flexographic printing plate original 50, and a rinsing section 15 is provided on the downstream side in the conveying direction D of the flexographic printing plate original 50 of the developing section 14. Also, in the processing method, the flexographic printing plate original is conveyed along the conveying path Dp, and a developing process and a rinsing process are performed.

[0095] As described above, the conveying section 72 conveys the flexographic printing plate original 50 on a conveying path Dp including a curved conveying path Db, and has a first conveying roller pair 74 disposed on the upstream side in the conveying direction D of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and a second conveying roller pair 76 disposed on the downstream side in the conveying direction D. The first conveying roller pair 74 and the second conveying roller pair 76 are provided, for example, above the developing tank 71 and at the same height.

[0096] Through the conveying section 72, the flexographic printing plate original 50 is conveyed in a state of being immersed in the developing solution Q in the developing tank 71.

[0097] In addition, the upstream side in the conveying direction D is the inlet 71a side of the housing 70, and the downstream side in the conveying direction D is the outlet 71b side of the housing 70.

[0098] The first conveying roller pair 74 has a roller 74a disposed on the back surface 50b side of the flexographic printing plate original 50 and a roller 74b disposed on the front surface 50a side of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and conveys the flexographic printing plate original 50 while sandwiching it. Among the above-mentioned roller 74a and roller 74b, one is a driving roller and the other is a driven roller.

[0099] Similarly to the first conveying roller pair 74, the second conveying roller pair 76 has a roller 76a disposed on the back surface 50b side of the flexographic printing plate original 50 and a roller 76b disposed on the front surface 50a side of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and conveys the flexographic printing plate original 50 while clamping it. Among the roller 76a and roller 76b, one is a driving roller and the other is a driven roller.

[0100] The conveying section 72 separately disposes a conveying roller pair 78 and a conveying roller pair 80 between the first conveying roller pair 74 and the second conveying roller pair 76 and inside the developing tank 71. The flexographic printing plate original 50 is conveyed substantially horizontally inside the developing tank 71. Inside the developing tank 71, the conveying path Dp is linear.

[0101] In the developing unit 42, for example, three roller-shaped brushes 82 that come into contact with the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50 are separately arranged. Further, a plurality of guide rollers 84 are arranged sandwiching the flexographic printing plate original 50 with respect to the roller-shaped brushes 82. When the flexographic printing plate original 50 is conveyed, the unexposed portions are removed by the brushes 82.

[0102] Similar to Figure 2 the processing apparatus 40 shown, the processing apparatus 40a can develop the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0103] In the processing apparatus 40a, the flexographic printing plate original 50 is also clamped and conveyed by the brushes 82 and the guide rollers 84. Therefore, the unexposed portions can be removed efficiently, and the flexographic printing plate original 50 can be conveyed more stably.

[0104] The roller-shaped brush 82 is a brush with bristles planted radially with respect to the axis. The bristles of the brush 82 can be the same as those of the above-described brush 43.

[0105] In addition, the number of the brushes 82 and the number of the guide rollers 84 are appropriately determined according to the size of the developing tank 71, the size of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and the like.

[0106] As the guide roller 84, for example, a rubber roller, a sponge roller, etc. are preferably used so as not to damage the printing surface, that is, the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0107] The above-described conveying unit 72 has been described by taking the roller conveying method as an example, but is not limited thereto. The conveying unit 72 can use, for example, at least one of a belt conveying method, the above-described roller conveying method, a gear conveying method, and a guide conveying method.

[0108] In the case of the belt conveying method, for example, in Figure 6 the processing apparatus 40a shown, an endless belt (not shown) is arranged in place of the guide roller 84, and the endless belt is driven by a driving unit (not shown) to convey the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0109] In the case of the gear conveying method, for example, at the end 50c of the flexographic printing plate original 50 (refer to Figure 6 ) a jig (not shown) having gears at both ends for conveying the flexographic printing plate original 50 (not shown) is attached. The gears of the jig are meshed with the driving gears to rotate the driving gears, thereby conveying the flexographic printing plate original 50. Further, a ball spline gear can also be used in the gear conveying method.

[0110] In the case of the guide conveying method, for example, at the end 50c of the flexographic printing plate original 50 (refer to Figure 6)A strip member (not shown) for conveying the flexographic printing plate original 50 is installed so that the strip member passes through, for example, the outlet 71b of the frame 70 and is wound outside the outlet 71b, thereby conveying the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0111] In the rinsing section 15, for example, between the pair of conveying rollers 86 and the pair of conveying rollers 88, for the surface 50a of the developed flexographic printing plate original 50, the rinsing liquid is supplied from the rinsing liquid supply section 44 to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50 through the nozzle 45, for example, in a spray form to wash away the above-mentioned residues. The rinsing liquid from the nozzle 45 stays in the rinsing tank 73.

[0112] The pair of conveying rollers 86 has a roller 86a disposed on the back surface 50b side of the flexographic printing plate original 50 and a roller 86b disposed on the surface 50a side of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and holds and conveys the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0113] The pair of conveying rollers 88 has a roller 88a disposed on the back surface 50b side of the flexographic printing plate original 50 and a roller 88b disposed on the surface 50a side of the flexographic printing plate original 50, and holds and conveys the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0114] The above-mentioned rollers 86a and 86b are, for example, both driven rollers. And, for example, among the rollers 88a and 88b, one is a driving roller and the other is a driven roller.

[0115] In the processing device 40a, the flexographic printing plate original 50 is also held and conveyed by the brush 82 and the guide roller 84, so that the unexposed portion can be removed efficiently and the flexographic printing plate original 50 can be conveyed more stably.

[0116] In addition, the number of the brushes 82 and the number of the guide rollers 84 are appropriately determined according to the size of the developing tank 71 and the size of the flexographic printing plate original 50, etc.

[0117] (Flexographic printing plate original)

[0118] And, the flexographic printing plate original 50 forms a flexographic printing plate for flexographic printing, and its structure is not particularly limited. The flexographic printing plate original 50 is preferably a flexographic printing plate original called a water-developable flexographic printing plate original that can be developed with a water-based developer having water as a main component. The flexographic printing plate original 50 can use a known flexographic printing plate original that can be developed with a water-based developer. In addition, the flexographic printing plate original 50 may also be a CTP (Computer To Plate)-compatible flexible plate material with a black layer coated on its surface.

[0119] (Processing method)

[0120] Next, useFigure 2 The processing apparatus 40 shown illustrates the processing method. In addition, the processing method is not limited to using Figure 2 the processing apparatus 40 shown. For example, it is also possible to use Figure 6 the processing apparatus 40a shown.

[0121] In the processing method using the processing apparatus 40, a developing process and a rinsing process are performed on the flexographic printing plate original 50 after imagewise exposure. A cleaning liquid is preliminarily stored in the developing solution storage tank 16a as the developing solution.

[0122] In Figure 1 the processing system 10 shown, the surface 50a (refer to Figure 2 ) of the flexographic printing plate original 50 (refer to Figure 2 ) is exposed by the exposure unit 12, for example, in a specific pattern. Thereby, the flexographic printing plate original 50 (refer to Figure 2 ) after imagewise exposure is obtained.

[0123] Next, the flexographic printing plate original 50 (refer to Figure 2 ) after imagewise exposure is conveyed from the stage 48 to the conveying roller 47, and is conveyed to the developing unit 14 along the conveying direction D by the conveying roller 47. In the developing unit 14, the developing solution in the developing solution storage tank 16a of the developing solution storage unit 16 is supplied to the brush 43 of the developing unit 42 through the pump 24 via the filter 25 and the heater 26. The developing solution is supplied to rotate the brush 43 to remove the unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate original 50 and perform development. The process of removing the unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure by using the developing solution containing the cleaning liquid and performing development is called the developing process. The developing solution after development based on the developing process is conveyed to the developing solution storage tank 16a through the first liquid conveying path 31.

[0124] Through the developing process using the developing solution Q of the developing unit 42, the solid substances generated by removing the unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate original 50 after imagewise exposure are dispersed in the developing solution Q. Thus, the developing solution Q contains solid substances derived from the flexographic printing plate original 50.

[0125] After developing the original flexographic printing plate 50, it is conveyed in a direction opposite to the conveying direction D by the conveying roller 47, and the original flexographic printing plate 50 is conveyed to the side of the table 48. At this time, at the timing when the original flexographic printing plate 50 passes by the brush 43 on the side of the table 48, a rinsing liquid is supplied from the rinsing liquid supply section 44 of the rinsing section 15 to at least the surface 50a of the developed original flexographic printing plate 50 from which the unexposed portion has been removed through the nozzle 45. Thereby, residues such as latex components and rubber components remaining on the surface 50a of the developed original flexographic printing plate 50 are removed. The used rinsing liquid is conveyed to the developing solution storage tank 16a through the second liquid supply path 32. The process of supplying a rinsing liquid having substantially only water as a component to at least the surface of the developed original flexographic printing plate from which the unexposed portion of the original flexographic printing plate has been removed is called the rinsing process.

[0126] As the developing solution stored in the developing solution storage tank 16a of the developing solution storage section 16, if a developing process is performed, it becomes a solution formed by mixing the initially stored cleaning solution, the cleaning solution after development, and the used rinsing liquid. In the developing process, when the developing solution stored in the developing solution storage tank is repeatedly used for development in the mixed state as described above, due to the rinsing liquid, the concentrations of various components decrease, and it may not be possible to disperse the removed unexposed portions, etc., and the performance as a developing solution may not be exhibited. Therefore, for example, a developing solution having a higher concentration of chelating agent than the developing solution stored in the developing solution storage tank 16a is supplemented as a developing replenisher to the developing solution storage tank. Thereby, the performance of the developing solution can be maintained. In this case, in the developing solution replenishment tank 16b, the above-mentioned developing replenisher is conveyed from the developing solution replenishment section 20 (refer to Figure 1 ). And, regarding the rinsing liquid, it is conveyed to the developing solution storage tank 16a or the developing solution replenishment tank 16b. The developing replenisher stored in the developing solution replenishment tank 16b or a mixed solution of the developing replenisher and the rinsing liquid is conveyed to the developing solution storage tank 16a to maintain the concentrations of the respective components of the developing solution.

[0127] And, as described above, it is not necessary to discard the entire amount, the maintainability is improved, and the reduction in the operation rate of the processing apparatus can also be suppressed.

[0128] And, the amount of the developing replenisher supplemented to the developing solution storage tank is determined according to the amount of the rinsing liquid. The rinsing liquid has substantially only water as a component, and in the state where the rinsing liquid is mixed with the developing replenisher, the amount of the developing replenisher can be determined so as to achieve the concentrations of the respective components of the cleaning solution stored before development.

[0129] Further, preferably, the ratio of the amount of the rinsing liquid fed to the developing solution storage tank to the amount of the developing replenisher is constant. As described above, in the state where the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher are mixed, the amount of the developing replenisher is determined to achieve the set concentration of each component. Therefore, if the amount of the rinsing liquid can be specified, the amount of the developing replenisher can be determined. Thus, even if the amount of the rinsing liquid changes, by changing the amount of the developing replenisher according to the amount of the rinsing liquid, the concentration of each component of the developing solution can be maintained.

[0130] In the processing apparatus, not all of the developing solution is discarded, but a part thereof is discarded. Therefore, if the amount of the rinsing liquid fed to the developing solution storage tank 16a increases, the amount of the waste liquid increases. In order to reduce the amount of the waste liquid, the total amount of the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher fed to the developing solution storage tank is preferably 10 to 30 L / m 2 with respect to the area of the original flexographic printing plate after development, and more preferably 12 to 25 L / m 2 . For example, as Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, if the total amount of the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher is 14 L / m 2 , the concentration of each component of the developing solution will not reach the concentration requiring replacement, and development can be performed for a long time.

[0131] In order to suppress fluctuations in the components of the developing solution, it is necessary to supply the developing solution in the developing solution storage tank 16a with the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher each time the original flexographic printing plate 50 is processed. For example, when the area of the original flexographic printing plate 50 of the maximum size that can be processed is about 0.5 m 2 , when processing one original flexographic printing plate 50, it is necessary to perform processing so that the input amount of the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher becomes 5 to 15 liters.

[0132] Preferably, the timing of supplying the rinsing liquid to the original flexographic printing plate is detected, and after the rinsing liquid is supplied, the developing replenisher is supplied to the developing solution storage tank. Thereby, the components of the developing solution in the developing solution storage tank 16a can be made constant.

[0133] In addition, in the processing method using the Figure 6 processing apparatus 40a shown, as compared with Figure 2Compared with the processing device 40 shown, the conveying path Dp is different, and the flexographic printing plate original is conveyed along the conveying path Dp, and the developing process and the rinsing process are carried out. Except for this point, the processing method is the same as that of the processing device 40. In the processing method of the processing device 40a, in the state of being immersed in the developing solution Q and being conveyed, the unexposed portion (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate original 50 is removed for development. For the surface 50a of the developed flexographic printing plate original 50, the rinsing liquid is supplied from the rinsing liquid supply unit 44 to the surface 50a of the flexographic printing plate original 50 through the nozzle 45, for example, in a spray form, to wash away the above-mentioned residues for rinsing treatment.

[0134] The processing method of the processing device 40a can obtain the same effect as the processing method of the processing device 40a.

[0135] Hereinafter, the cleaning liquid contained in the developing solution will be described.

[0136] <Cleaning Liquid>

[0137] The cleaning liquid is preferably an aqueous cleaning liquid, which can be a liquid composed only of water, and can also be an aqueous solution containing 50% by mass or more of water and added with water-soluble compounds. Examples of the water-soluble compounds include surfactants, acids, bases, etc. The cleaning liquid also contains a chelating agent. The above-mentioned aqueous cleaning liquid is equivalent to an aqueous developing solution.

[0138] Examples of the surfactant include anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and amphoteric surfactants, among which anionic surfactants are preferred.

[0139] Specific examples of the anionic surfactant include aliphatic carboxylates such as sodium laurate and sodium oleate; higher alcohol sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium cetyl sulfate, and sodium oleyl sulfate; polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfates such as sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether sulfate; polyoxyethylene alkyl allyl ether sulfates such as sodium polyoxyethylene octyl phenyl ether sulfate and sodium polyoxyethylene nonyl phenyl ether sulfate; alkyl diphenyl ether disulfonates, alkyl sulfonates such as sodium dodecyl sulfonate and sodium dialkyl sulfosuccinate; alkyl allyl sulfonates such as alkyl disulfonates, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, sodium dibutylnaphthalenesulfonate, and sodium triisopropylnaphthalenesulfonate; higher alcohol phosphate esters such as disodium dodecyl phosphate monoester and sodium dodecyl phosphate diester; polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate esters such as disodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether phosphate monoester and disodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether phosphate diester; etc. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more. In addition, sodium salts are given as specific examples, but are not particularly limited to sodium salts, and calcium salts or ammonium salts can also obtain the same effect.

[0140] As nonionic surfactants, specifically, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene oleyl ether or polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene nonyl phenyl ether or polyoxyethylene octyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycols, mono- and diesters of fatty acids and polyethylene glycol such as polyethylene glycol monostearate or polyethylene glycol monooleate or polyethylene glycol dilaurate, esters of fatty acids and sorbitan such as sorbitan monolaurate or sorbitan monooleate, esters of polyoxyethylene adducts of sorbitan and fatty acids such as polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate or polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate or polyoxyethylene sorbitan trilaurate, esters of fatty acids and sorbitol such as sorbitol monopalmitate or sorbitol dilaurate, esters of polyoxyethylene adducts of sorbitol and fatty acids such as polyoxyethylene sorbitol monostearate or polyoxyethylene sorbitol dioleate, esters of fatty acids and pentaerythritol such as pentaerythritol monostearate, esters of fatty acids and glycerol such as glycerol monolaurate, fatty acid alkanolamides such as lauric acid diethanolamide or lauric acid monoethanolamide, amine oxides such as lauryl dimethylamine oxide, fatty acid alkanolamines such as stearyl diethanolamine, polyoxyethylene alkylamines, triethanolamine fatty acid esters, basic salt compounds such as phosphates, carbonates, and silicates. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0141] As cationic surfactants, specifically, primary, secondary, and tertiary amine salts such as monostearyl ammonium chloride, distearyl ammonium chloride, and tristearyl ammonium chloride, quaternary ammonium salts such as stearyl trimethyl ammonium chloride, distearyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, and stearyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, alkyl pyridinium salts such as N-hexadecyl pyridinium chloride or N-stearyl pyridinium chloride, N,N-dialkyl morpholinium salts, fatty acid amide salts of polyethylene polyamines, acetates of urea compounds of amides of aminoethyl ethanolamine and stearic acid, 2-alkyl-1-hydroxyethyl imidazolinium chloride, etc. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0142] As amphoteric surfactants, specifically, amino acid types such as sodium lauryl aminopropionate, betaine types such as lauryl dimethyl betaine or lauryl dihydroxyethyl betaine, sulfobetaine types such as stearyl dimethyl sulfobetaine vinyl ammonium betaine, imidazoline betaine types, lecithin, etc. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0143] As acids, specifically, for example, inorganic acids or organic acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, formic acid, acetic acid, oxalic acid, succinic acid, citric acid, malic acid, maleic acid, and p-toluenesulfonic acid can be cited.

[0144] As the base, specifically, for example, lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium oxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, etc. can be cited.

[0145] As the chelating agent, that is, as the metal chelating agent, specifically, for example, citric acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid (EDDS), L-glutamic acid diacetic acid (GLDA), and their alkali metal salts, etc. can be cited.

[0146] Hereinafter, the cleaning liquid after development, that is, the development fatigue liquid will be described in detail. When the developer is repeatedly used, the development fatigue liquid is transported to the developer storage tank.

[0147] <Development fatigue liquid>

[0148] The development fatigue liquid is a cleaning liquid containing solid substances generated by removing the unexposed portions of the original flexographic printing plate after imagewise exposure. In addition, the inclusion of solid substances in the cleaning liquid containing solid substances means a state in which the solid substances are dissolved or dispersed.

[0149] The development fatigue liquid is not particularly limited as long as it is a cleaning liquid containing solid substances, that is, a cleaning liquid containing uncured resin, and the solid substances are generated by removing the unexposed portions of the original flexographic printing plate by development using the above cleaning liquid. However, it may also include a development fatigue liquid containing a conventionally known photosensitive resin composition for forming a normal photosensitive resin layer.

[0150] The uncured resin removed by development may be the photosensitive resin contained in the photosensitive resin composition.

[0151] And, preferably, the development fatigue liquid when developed by the LAM (Laser Ablation Masking) method is set as the treatment object, so the uncured resin removed by development is preferably the photosensitive resin contained in the photosensitive resin composition.

[0152] And, as such a photosensitive resin composition, for example, a composition containing a polymerization initiator, a polymerizable compound, a polymerization inhibitor, a plasticizer, etc. in addition to the photosensitive resin can be cited, so the development fatigue liquid may contain a polymerization initiator, a polymerizable compound, a polymerization inhibitor, a plasticizer, etc. in addition to the uncured resin.

[0153] <Uncured resin>

[0154] The uncured resin contained in the development waste liquid refers to the solid substance generated by removing the unexposed part. Examples of the uncured resin contained in the development waste liquid include water-dispersible latex, rubber components, polymer components, and uncrosslinked ethylenically unsaturated compounds (polymers), etc.

[0155] Examples of the water-dispersible latex include water-dispersible latex polymers such as polybutadiene latex, natural rubber latex, styrene-butadiene copolymer latex, acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer latex, polychloroprene latex, polyisoprene latex, polyurethane latex, methyl methacrylate-butadiene copolymer latex, vinyl pyridine copolymer latex, butyl polymer latex, mercaptan polymer latex, acrylate polymer latex, etc., or polymers obtained by copolymerizing other components such as acrylic acid or methacrylic acid on these polymers.

[0156] Examples of the rubber components include butadiene rubber, isoprene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, acrylonitrile rubber, acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, chloroprene rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, epichlorohydrin rubber, etc.

[0157] The polymer component can be hydrophilic or hydrophobic. Specifically, examples include polyamide resin, unsaturated polyester resin, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, polyester resin, polyvinyl alcohol resin, etc.

[0158] Solid substances with a specific gravity smaller than that of the cleaning liquid are, for example, photosensitive resins such as rubber components and latex.

[0159] Solid substances with a specific gravity larger than that of the cleaning liquid are, for example, components of the outer coating such as carbon.

[0160] Examples of the ethylenically unsaturated compound (polymer) include (meth)acrylic acid-modified polymers having an ethylenically unsaturated bond in the molecule.

[0161] Examples of the (meth)acrylic acid-modified polymer include (meth)acrylic acid-modified butadiene rubber and (meth)acrylic acid-modified nitrile rubber.

[0162] “(Meth)acrylic acid” is a notation representing acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, and “(meth)acrylate” mentioned later is a notation representing acrylate or methacrylate.

[0163] The uncured resin contained in the development waste liquid is not particularly limited, and is preferably 70% by mass or less, more preferably 35% by mass or less.

[0164] <Polymerization initiator>

[0165] As a polymerization initiator that can be included in the development fatigue liquid, a photoinitiator is preferably used.

[0166] As the above-mentioned photoinitiator, for example, alkyl phenyl ketones, acetophenones, benzoin ethers, benzophenones, thioxanthones, anthraquinones, benzils, biacetyls, etc. can be cited. Among them, alkyl phenyl ketones are preferred.

[0167] As the photoinitiator of alkyl phenyl ketones, specifically, for example, 2,2-dimethoxy-1,2-diphenylethane-1-one, 1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl-phenyl-ketone, 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-1-one, etc. can be cited.

[0168] The concentration of the polymerization initiator that can be included in the development fatigue liquid is not particularly limited, preferably 2.0% by mass or less, more preferably 1.0% by mass or less.

[0169] <Polymerizable compound>

[0170] As the polymerizable compound that can be included in the development fatigue liquid, for example, so-called ethylenically unsaturated compounds equivalent to monomer components other than the above-mentioned ethylenically unsaturated compounds (polymers) can be cited.

[0171] The ethylenically unsaturated compound can be a compound having one ethylenically unsaturated bond or a compound having two or more ethylenically unsaturated bonds.

[0172] As the compound having one ethylenically unsaturated bond, specifically, examples thereof include (meth)acrylic acid 2-hydroxyethyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2-hydroxypropyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2-hydroxybutyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl ester, β-hydroxy-β'-(meth)acryloyloxyethyl phthalate and other (meth)acrylic acid esters having a hydroxyl group; (meth)acrylic acid methyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid ethyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid propyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid butyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid isoamyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2-ethylhexyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid lauryl ester, (meth)acrylic acid stearyl ester and other (meth)acrylic acid alkyl esters; (meth)acrylic acid cyclohexyl ester and other (meth)acrylic acid cycloalkyl esters; (meth)acrylic acid 2-chloroethyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2-chloropropyl ester and other (meth)acrylic acid haloalkyl esters; (meth)acrylic acid 2-methoxyethyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2-ethoxyethyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2-butoxyethyl ester and other (meth)acrylic acid alkoxyalkyl esters; phenoxyethyl acrylate, (meth)acrylic acid nonylphenoxyethyl ester and other (meth)acrylic acid phenoxyalkyl esters; alkoxy-substituted alkylene glycol (meth)acrylic acid esters such as ethoxydiethylene glycol (meth)acrylic acid ester, methoxytriethylene glycol (meth)acrylic acid ester, methoxydipropylene glycol (meth)acrylic acid ester; (meth)acrylic acid 2,2-dimethylaminoethyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2,2-diethylaminoethyl ester, (meth)acrylic acid 2-hydroxyethyl ester, 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl (meth)acrylic acid ester, etc.

[0173] As the ethylenically unsaturated compound having two or more ethylenically unsaturated bonds, specifically, examples thereof include alkyl glycol di(meth)acrylic acid esters such as 1,9-nonanediol di(meth)acrylic acid ester; polyethylene glycol di(meth)acrylic acid esters such as diethylene glycol di(meth)acrylic acid ester; polypropylene glycol di(meth)acrylic acid esters such as dipropylene glycol di(meth)acrylic acid ester; trimethylolpropane tri(meth)acrylic acid ester, pentaerythritol tri(meth)acrylic acid ester, pentaerythritol tetra(meth)acrylic acid ester, glycerol tri(meth)acrylic acid ester, poly(meth)acrylic acid esters obtained by subjecting ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether to an addition reaction with a compound having an ethylenically unsaturated bond and an active hydrogen such as an unsaturated carboxylic acid or an unsaturated alcohol; poly(meth)acrylic acid esters obtained by subjecting an unsaturated epoxy compound such as (meth)acrylic acid glycidyl ester to an addition reaction with a compound having an active hydrogen such as a carboxylic acid or an amine; poly(meth)acrylic acid amides such as methylenebis(meth)acrylamide; polyvinyl compounds such as divinylbenzene; etc.

[0174] The concentration of the polymerizable compound that can be contained in the development fatigue liquid is not particularly limited, and is preferably 30.0% by mass or less, more preferably 15.0% by mass or less.

[0175] <Polymerization inhibitor>

[0176] As a polymerization inhibitor that can be included in the development fatigue liquid, specifically, for example, hydroquinone monomethyl ether, p-methoxyphenol, di-tert-butyl-p-cresol, pyrogallol, tert-butylcatechol, benzoquinone, 4,4'-thiobis(3-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol), 2,2'-methylenebis(4-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol), N-nitrosophenylhydroxylamine cerium primary salt, etc. can be cited.

[0177] The concentration of the polymerization inhibitor that can be included in the development fatigue liquid is not particularly limited, preferably 0.3% by mass or less, and more preferably 0.15% by mass or less.

[0178] <Plasticizer>

[0179] As a plasticizer that can be included in the development fatigue liquid, for example, liquid rubber, oil, polyester, and phosphoric acid compounds, etc. can be cited.

[0180] As liquid rubber, specifically, for example, liquid polybutadiene, liquid polyisoprene, and substances modified with maleic acid or epoxy groups for these, etc. can be cited.

[0181] As oil, specifically, for example, paraffin, naphthene, and perfume, etc. can be cited.

[0182] As polyester, specifically, for example, adipic acid-based polyester, etc. can be cited.

[0183] As phosphoric acid compounds, specifically, for example, phosphate esters, etc. can be cited.

[0184] The concentration of the plasticizer that can be included in the development fatigue liquid is not particularly limited, preferably 30% by mass or less, and more preferably 15% by mass or less.

[0185] <Development replenisher>

[0186] The development replenisher adjusts the composition of the developer in the developer storage tank. Through the development replenisher, for example, the detergent concentration or the solid component concentration of the developer is kept constant.

[0187] The development replenisher is a developer having the same composition as the above cleaning liquid, but the concentration of the chelating agent in the composition is higher than that of the cleaning liquid. The concentration of the chelating agent is determined by the amount of the rinsing liquid and the amount of the development replenisher.

[0188] For example, in the case where the amount of the rinsing liquid for each plate in a processor with the maximum size of the plate that can be processed being about 0.5 m 2 is 4 L (liters), the amount of the development replenisher for at least each plate processing is preferably 1 L or more, and more preferably 2 L or more.

[0189] Regarding the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher, it is necessary to implement for each plate to be processed. For example, in the case of a processor where the maximum size of the plate that can be processed is about 0.5 m 2 in the case of a processor where the maximum size of the plate that can be processed is about 0.5 m, it is necessary to process each plate so that the total amount of the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher with a detergent concentration of 1.1% by mass becomes 5 to 15 L.

[0190] Regarding the concentration of surfactants such as detergents in the developing replenisher, it is preferable to adjust the concentration of the developing replenisher when mixing the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher so that it is equal to the concentration of surfactants such as detergents in the developer. When the concentration of the surfactant becomes lower than that of the developer when mixing the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher, the development rate decreases. Therefore, the concentration of the developing replenisher corresponding to the amount of the rinsing liquid transported during each plate processing is adjusted.

[0191] The present invention is basically configured as described above. As described above, the processing apparatus and the processing method of the present invention have been described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications or changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0192] [Example 1]

[0193] Hereinafter, examples are given to further specifically describe the features of the present invention. The materials, reagents, amounts of substances, their ratios, operations, etc. shown in the following examples can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0194] In this example, the amount of waste liquid was evaluated for Example 1 and Comparative Example 1.

[0195] The following shows the devices and chemicals used in Example 1 and Comparative Example 1.

[0196] <Imaging machine>

[0197] ·CDI Spark 4835 Inline (manufactured by Esko-Graphics BV.)

[0198] <Exposure machine>

[0199] ·Ultraviolet exposure machine Concept 302 ECDLF (product name) (manufactured by Glunz&Jensen)

[0200] <Flexographic printing plate original>

[0201] ·FLENEX FW-L (plate with a size of 670 mm × 560 mm, manufactured by FUJIFILM Global Graphic Systems Co., Ltd.)

[0202] <Cleaning liquid>

[0203] ·An aqueous solution (concentration: 0.5% by mass) of Finish Power&Pure Powder SP (manufactured by Reckitt Benckiser Japan Ltd.)

[0204] <Imagewise exposure of the original flexographic printing plate>

[0205] For the above-mentioned original flexographic printing plate, using the above-mentioned ultraviolet exposure machine, back exposure was performed for 10 seconds with an energy of 80 W from the back side of the original flexographic printing plate.

[0206] Then, using the above-mentioned imaging machine, imaging of the image of the solid 50% flat screen was performed by ablating the mask layer, and main exposure was performed for 1000 seconds with an exposure of 80 W from the surface (the back side of the back side). The original flexographic printing plate after the main exposure was used as the original flexographic printing plate after imagewise exposure.

[0207] <Development treatment and rinsing treatment of the original flexographic printing plate>

[0208] For the original flexographic printing plate after imagewise exposure, using Figure 2 the processing device 40 shown, the above-mentioned cleaning liquid was set at a temperature of 50°C, and development was performed using the brush 43 to remove the unexposed portions. For the developed original flexographic printing plate, rinsing treatment was performed using fresh water in the rinsing liquid.

[0209] (Example 1)

[0210] In Example 1, the usage amount of the rinsing liquid was set to 6.4 L / m 2 , the amount of the development replenisher was set to 7.6 L / m 2 , and the evaporation amount in the developer storage tank was set to 1.5 L / m 2 . The amount of waste liquid is shown in Table 1 below.

[0211] (Comparative Example 1)

[0212] In Comparative Example 1, compared with Example 1, the difference was that the usage amount of the rinsing liquid was set to 6.4 L / m 2 , the rinsing liquid was not reused, was discarded after being used for rinsing treatment, and the development replenisher was not replenished. Except for this, it was the same as Example 1. The amount of waste liquid is shown in Table 1 below.

[0213] As shown in Table 1 below, in Example 1, by reusing the rinsing liquid, the amount of waste liquid can be reduced compared with Comparative Example 1. As described above, in Example 1, by reusing the rinsing liquid, the replacement frequency of the cleaning liquid can be set to 1 / 10 compared with Comparative Example 1. Therefore, the amount of the cleaning liquid per unit area can be reduced.

[0214] In addition, when replacing the cleaning liquid, it is necessary to mechanically clean the developing solution storage tank before adding the cleaning liquid. The waste liquid generated at this time is the cleaning waste liquid. As described above, compared with Comparative Example 1, Example 1 can set the replacement frequency of the cleaning liquid to 1 / 10, so the amount of the cleaning waste liquid per unit area can be reduced.

[0215] [Table 1]

[0216]

[0217] [Example 2]

[0218] In this example, the evaluation of the residue on the plate and the developing time was performed for Example 10 and Comparative Example 10. The results are shown in Table 2 below. The rinsing liquid, developing replenisher, and cleaning liquid used in Example 10 and Comparative Example 10 are also shown in Table 2 below.

[0219] In Example 10 and Comparative Example 10, the same imaging machine, exposure machine, flexographic printing plate original, and cleaning liquid as those in the above-mentioned First Example were used.

[0220] The imagewise exposure of the flexographic printing plate original was also set to be the same as that in the above-mentioned First Example.

[0221] Hereinafter, the residue on the plate and the developing time will be described.

[0222] [Residue on the plate]

[0223] After the developing process of the flexographic printing plate original, drying, post-exposure, and degumming (adhesion-reducing exposure) were performed.

[0224] All residues remaining on the plate of the flexographic printing plate original after the above-mentioned drying, post-exposure, and degumming (adhesion-reducing exposure) and that cannot be removed by brushing or tape peeling, etc. were regarded as adhering residues.

[0225] For the residue on the plate, the evaluation was performed by processing 1 plate of the flexographic printing plate original. In addition, the evaluation was performed by processing 100 plates of the flexographic printing plate original. Visual inspection of the plate surface was performed for each processed flexographic printing plate original to confirm the presence or absence of adhering residues with a size of 100 μm or more. The number of adhering residues (number / plate) is recorded in Table 2 below.

[0226] In addition, as a result of visually inspecting the surface of the processed original flexographic printing plate, if there is even a single adhering residue with a size of 100 μm or more, it is evaluated as poor.

[0227] [Developer time]

[0228] Regarding the development time, the time required to develop an original flexographic printing plate with a thickness of 1.7 mm before development to a thickness of 1.1 mm was measured. The results are shown in Table 2 below. Regarding the development time, the shorter the time, the better the development performance.

[0229] (Example 10)

[0230] In Example 1, fresh water was used as the rinsing liquid, and the usage amount was set to 6.4 L / m 2 , and the amount of the developer replenisher was set to 9.2 L / m 2 . In Example 10, 1-plate processing and 100-plate processing were performed.

[0231] (Comparative Example 10)

[0232] Compared with Example 10, the difference in Comparative Example 10 is that a cleaning liquid was used as the rinsing liquid, and the usage amount was set to 14 L / m 2 and the amount of the developer replenisher was set to 14 L / m 2 , and other than that, it is the same as Example 10.

[0233] The dispersant shown in Table 2 below is a mixture of an alkali agent, a chelating agent, and a surfactant.

[0234] [Table 2]

[0235]

[0236] As shown in Table 2, compared with Comparative Example 10, in Example 10, even when the number of plates processed increases, the development time can be shortened.

[0237] Symbol Explanation

[0238] 10 - Processing system, 12 - Exposure unit, 14 - Developing unit, 15 - Rinsing unit, 16 - Developing solution storage unit, 16a - Developing solution storage tank, 16b - Developing solution replenishment tank, 18 - Developing solution supply unit, 20 - Developing solution replenishment unit, 22 - Measuring unit, 24 - Pump, 25 - Filter, 26 - Heater, 27 - Switching valve, 28 - Valve, 29 - Waste liquid tank, 30 - Control unit, 31 - First liquid supply path, 32 - Second liquid supply path, 33, 34, 35 - Connecting pipes, 40, 40a - Processing device, 42 - Developing unit, 43, 82 - Brushes, 44 - Rinsing liquid supply unit, 45 - Nozzle, 46 - Developing tank, 47 - Conveyor roller, 48 - Table, 49 - Support, 50 - Flexographic printing plate original, 50a - Surface, 50b - Back surface, 50c - End, 60 - Characteristic curve, 62 - Characteristic line, 62a - Replacement period, 62b - Initial period, 64 - Characteristic curve, 70 - Frame, 71 - Developing tank, 71a - Inlet, 71b - Outlet, 72 - Conveying unit, 73 - Rinsing tank, 73b - Side wall, 74 - First conveyor roller pair, 74a, 74b, 76a, 76b, 86a, 86b, 88a, 88b - Rollers, 76 - Second conveyor roller pair, 78, 80, 86, 88 - Conveyor roller pairs, 84 - Guide roller, D - Conveying direction, Db - Conveying path, Dp - Conveying route.

Claims

1. A processing apparatus having: A developing unit including a developing cell that develops an unexposed portion of a flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure by using a developer containing a cleaning liquid; A rinsing unit including a rinsing liquid supply unit that supplies a rinsing liquid containing 99.50 mass% or more of water to at least the surface of the developed flexographic printing plate original from which the unexposed portion has been removed; A developer storage unit having a developer storage tank that stores the developer for the developing in the developing unit; A first liquid supply path that transports the developed developer to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit; and A second liquid supply path that transports the rinsing liquid after being supplied in the rinsing unit to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit and is different from the first liquid supply path, The developing unit repeatedly uses the developer stored in the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit for the developing, The processing apparatus has: A developer replenishing unit that replenishes the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit with a developer replenishment liquid having a higher concentration of a chelating agent than the developer stored in the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit as a developer replenishment liquid; The second liquid supply path does not pass through the developer replenishing unit.

2. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The amount of the developer replenishment liquid replenished into the developer storage tank by the developer replenishing unit is determined based on the amount of the rinsing liquid transported to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit.

3. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The ratio of the amount of the rinsing liquid transported to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit to the amount of the developer replenishment liquid is constant.

4. The processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The total amount of the rinse liquid and the developer replenisher delivered to the developer storage tank of the developer storage section is 10 L / m with respect to the area of the flexographic printing plate precursor after development. 2 ~30L / m 2 .

5. The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, having: A control unit that detects the timing of supplying the rinsing liquid to the flexographic printing plate original, and after supplying the rinsing liquid, supplies the developer replenishment liquid to the developer storage tank of the developer storage unit through the developer replenishing unit.

6. The processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, having a transport unit that transports the flexographic printing plate original, The rinsing unit is provided on the downstream side in the transport direction of the flexographic printing plate original of the developing unit.

7. A processing method having: A developing step of developing an unexposed portion of a flexographic printing plate original after imagewise exposure by using a developer containing a cleaning liquid; and A rinsing step of supplying a rinsing liquid containing 99.50 mass% or more of water to at least the surface of the developed flexographic printing plate original from which the unexposed portion has been removed; Transporting the developer for the developing to a developer storage tank that stores the developer through a first liquid supply path, Transporting the rinsing liquid after being supplied in the rinsing step to the developer storage tank through a second liquid supply path different from the first liquid supply path, In the development step, the developer stored in the developer storage tank is repeatedly used for the development. The processing method includes a step of supplying, as a developer replenishing liquid, a developer having a chelating agent concentration higher than that of the developer stored in the developer storage tank to the developer storage tank. The second liquid supply path does not pass through a developer replenishing section that replenishes the developer storage tank with the developer replenishing liquid.

8. The processing method according to claim 7, wherein the amount of the developer replenishing liquid supplied to the developer storage tank is determined according to the amount of the rinsing liquid.

9. The processing method according to claim 7, wherein the ratio of the amount of the rinsing liquid transported to the developer storage tank to the amount of the developer replenishing liquid is constant.

10. The processing method according to claim 7, wherein The total amount of the rinsing liquid and the developing replenisher delivered to the developing solution storage tank is 10 L / m 2 to 30 L / m 2 .

11. The processing method according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the timing of supplying the rinsing liquid to the flexographic printing plate original is detected, and after the rinsing liquid is supplied, the developer replenishing liquid is supplied to the developer storage tank.

12. The processing method according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the flexographic printing plate original is transported along a transport path, and the development step and the rinsing step are performed.

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