Chemistry can account for as much as 30 percent of the price of the plate in a CTP environment, and additional hidden costs can bring the total cost of digital platemaking even higher, according to a new white paper from J Zarwan Partners (Charlottetown, PEI), “CTP Plate Making: Understanding the Real Costs.”

“The typical printer can spend $40,000 to $100,000 per year on chemistry and related items,” says founder John Zarwan. “Many printers underestimate the total cost of chemistry, processing and maintenance.” J Zarwan Partners spoke with 63 printers of all sizes, who employed products from all major manufacturers and process types, including both thermal and violet. To access the white paper, visit www.johnzarwan.com.