Abstract: The printing plate processing machine includes a first conveyor for receiving printing plates and a second conveyor for receiving plate-separating sheets, and a feed mechanism for selectively transporting the plates and sheets from a loading station in which the plates and sheets are alternately disposed in a stack, toward the first and second conveyors. A plate and sheet diverting mechanism is located between the first and second conveyors for alternately delivering the plates to the first conveyor and the sheets to the second conveyor. The plates are processed after disposition on the first conveyor. A collecting station received the plates and sheets from the first and second conveyors alternately in a stack after processing of the plates. The feed-mechanism includes a fluid-operated cylinder and ram, the ram being movable selectively between an extended position and a retracted position.

Abstract: This washer and dryer unit includes tandem washer and dryer housings having separate but coacting transversely inclined belt conveyor assemblies adapted to deliver printing plates successively through the washer housing and dryer housing without manual handling. The washer belt conveyor assembly extends outwardly of the washer housing at each end through sealed openings to provide a portion at one end for receiving the workpiece, and a portion at the other end for transferring the workpiece into the dryer housing. The dryer belt conveyor assembly extends outwardly of the housing at one end only through a sealed opening to deliver the workpiece from the dryer housing to a collection station. The conveyor assemblies are provided with a common drive. The washer housing is provided with a laterally inclined spray system therein directed at the washer conveyor belt.

Abstract: This dryer unit includes a housing having an inclined belt conveyor assembly mounted therein for transporting a previously washed printing plate through a drying system. The continuous belt is formed from an open mesh material to facilitate the circulation of drying air through the belt and over and above the plate.