Application
This unit requires the individual to correctly prepare, expose and process a lithographic plate. The individual will post-treat the plate to satisfy job specifications. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Select and prepare plate | 1.1. The job specifications are interpreted to determine the appropriate type and size of plate for the job 1.2. The plate is selected to deliver the quality of output required by the job brief 1.3. Plate is prepared to accommodate printing machine plate positioning requirements |
2. Expose the plate | 2.1. The work area is tidied and cleaned to ensure quality of output 2.2. Film is correctly positioned on the plate according to job specification 2.3. The correct exposure unit is selected to deliver the required output 2.4. Exposure control is correctly established utilising a quality control step wedge 2.5. Exposure and vacuum frame are maintained according to manufacturer's specifications |
3. Process the plate | 3.1. The plate processing unit is maintained according to manufacturer's specifications 3.2. The plate is processed according to plate manufacturer's specifications |
4. Post-treat the plate | 4.1. The plate is checked for quality of outcome and analysed for conformance to job specifications 4.2. Changes to the plate image are carried out correctly to ensure the standard of output required by the job brief 4.3. The plate is chemically treated and/or baked according to job specifications 4.4. The plate is prepared for storage prior to printing according to manufacturer's specifications |
Required Skills
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Required skills |
OHS in relation to operating machinery such as safely switching off machinery before cleaning is started communication of ideas and information by interpreting the job brief collecting, analysing and organising information by matching the job brief with production requirements planning and organising activities by preparing plates and work area for work teamwork when maintaining the production process in association with others mathematical ideas and techniques by calculating exposures and positioning of film problem-solving skills by recognising faults in plates and correcting use of technology by using equipment correctly to ensure ease of subsequent processing |
Required knowledge |
types of lithographic plates criteria for selection of plates advantages and disadvantages of negative and positive plates Plate exposure techniques and control images to be centred and square colour bars and control strips light sources used in plate exposing frames plate processing OHS concerns when processing printing plates baths and solutions used in a plate processing machine impact of a change in processor time on the final plate Plate finishing and correction purpose of gumming a plate post-exposure techniques criteria used to evaluate the accuracy of the plate dot gain issues difference between physical and optical dot gain steps to overcome dot gain plate punching and registration care to be taken to ensure accurate punching and registration manuals, safety and other documentation are relevant to this task, where are they kept and information is included in these documents |
Evidence Required
The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package. | |
Overview of assessment | |
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit | Evidence of the following is essential: the plate is processed according to the plate manufacturer's specifications. Changes to the plate image are carried out correctly to deliver the standard of output required by the job brief the underlying skills of plate making should be transferable across the design and pre-press sectors. It is important that the substrate for reproduction is identified and that the quality of the plate be suitable for the identified printing processes demonstrate an ability to find and use information relevant to the task from a variety of information sources prepare, set up and use lithographic plate exposure and plate processing equipment to produce ONE lithographic plate manually and ONE using a machine according to the listed Performance Criteria. |
Context of and specific resources for assessment | Assessment must ensure: that conditions are typical ambient conditions found in the workplace access to relevant facilities, equipment, materials and special purpose tools use of culturally appropriate processes and techniques appropriate to the language and literacy capacity of learners and the work being performed. |
Method of assessment | A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit: direct questioning/observation combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate. |
Guidance information for assessment | Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended. |
Range Statement
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included. | |
Plate may include: | a variety of plates used in offset lithography |
Quality may include: | client requirements and enterprise and industry standards |
Sectors
Unit sector |
Employability Skills
This unit contains employability skills. |
Licensing Information
Not applicable.