Letterpress Printing Today

Magnesium Hot Foil Plates & Dies

 

 

We ar so very proud and happy to be offering magnesium Hot Foil Plates in all of the main thicknesses. We are working with platemakers Park Graphics to be able to bring you this service. We hope this it will save you time and a few pennies to be able to order mag plates and polymers all in one place.

The rules are still the same, send us your artwork and we’ll send you a neg proof for approval and then we go from there. All approved artwork received before midday should be made that day.

As printers we know what you you want from plates, whether they are Photopolymer, Magnesium or something to eat your dinner off 🙂

Magnesium Hot Foiling plates have long been the go to for hot foil printers, but if you’re here reading this you already know that. If you’d like a price list please send us an email, plates@lymebaypress.com

Happy Foiling

Useful Magnesium Hot Foil Plate Info

Magnesium hot foiling plates are commonly used in the hot foil stamping process for several reasons. Here are some of the key advantages of using magnesium plates for hot foiling:

  • Cost-Effective: Magnesium plates are generally more affordable to produce compared to other materials like copper or brass. This cost-effectiveness can be particularly beneficial for smaller businesses or projects with budget constraints.
  • Heat Conductivity: Magnesium is an excellent conductor of heat. This property allows for efficient and consistent heat transfer during the hot foil stamping process. It ensures that the foil adheres well to the substrate, resulting in high-quality and uniform stamped impressions.
  • Ease of Etching: Magnesium plates are relatively easy to etch, making it convenient to create intricate or detailed designs. The etching process involves removing material to create the raised areas of the design, and magnesium’s machinability makes this process smoother.
  • Lightweight: Magnesium is a lightweight material, which can be advantageous when handling and setting up the plates on the hot foil stamping machine. It’s easier to manage and manipulate magnesium plates during the stamping process.
  • Versatility: Magnesium hot foiling plates are versatile and can be used for various applications, including packaging, labels, stationery, and promotional materials. They can be customized for a wide range of design and branding needs.
  • Quick Turnaround: Magnesium plates can be produced relatively quickly, which is beneficial when you need to meet tight production deadlines. This can be especially advantageous for businesses with fast turnaround requirements.
  • Lower Maintenance: While magnesium plates can wear out over time with extensive use, they generally require less maintenance compared to some other materials. Routine cleaning and reconditioning can help extend their lifespan.

It’s important to note that the choice of hot foiling plate material depends on the specific requirements of a project. Copper and brass plates are also used for hot foil stamping and may be preferred for certain applications where longer plate life or specialty effects are desired. However, for many standard hot foil stamping jobs, magnesium plates offer an excellent balance of cost, quality, and efficiency.

Looking after your Plates

Reconditioning hot foil magnesium plates is a process that involves cleaning and preparing the plates for continued use. Over time, magnesium plates can develop oxidation, ink residue, or other contaminants, which can affect the quality of the stamped impressions. Here’s a general guide on how to recondition hot foil magnesium plates:

  1. Cleaning:
    • Start by removing any excess foil or residue from the surface of the plate using a soft brush or cloth.
    • Clean the plates with a mild solvent or a mixture of water and a gentle detergent. Be cautious not to use harsh chemicals that may damage the plate.
    • For more stubborn residue, you can use specialized plate cleaners designed for hot foil stamping plates.
  2. Deoxidizing:
    • Magnesium can develop oxidation, especially if it’s exposed to air and moisture. To remove oxidation, use a deoxidizing solution or a mixture of vinegar and salt.
    • Apply the solution to the plate using a soft cloth or sponge. Gently rub the plate to remove oxidation.
    • Rinse the plate thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining solution.
  3. Re-etching:
    • If the plate has worn down or if there are areas with deep scratches, you may need to re-etch the plate to restore the raised areas of the design.
    • This process typically requires specialized equipment and expertise. It may be more practical to send the plates to a professional plate-making service for re-etching.
  4. Protective Coating:
    • After cleaning and reconditioning, consider applying a protective coating to the plate to help prevent future oxidation.
    • Some plate manufacturers offer coatings or treatments that can enhance the durability of the plates.
  5. Storage:
    • Store the reconditioned plates in a cool, dry place to prevent oxidation. Avoid exposing them to excessive humidity or extreme temperatures.

It’s important to note that the reconditioning process may not completely restore a heavily worn or damaged magnesium plate. In such cases, it might be more cost-effective to replace the plate. Additionally, if you’re not comfortable or experienced with the reconditioning process, consider seeking the assistance of a professional plate-making service.

Always follow the specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the hot foil magnesium plates, as different plates may have unique considerations for reconditioning.